informissue 24 november 2012
THE TOWERS ARE DANCING Successful teamconcept in Hamburg
CONCRETELY CONCRETE The foundation of modern civilisation
ZURICH: MY CITY The favourite places of STRABAG employees
THE MAGAZINE OF STRABAG SE Foreword inform 24
FOREWORD DEAR EMPLOYEES, ASSOCIATES AND FRIENDS,
Diana Neumüller-Klein, Head of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations
We belong together! So many new companies and so many But you don’t have to start with a megaproject to change the new employees have joined our STRABAG team in the past few world for the better. Start with small steps, perhaps with something years. But it takes time for a sense of togetherness to develop. Let’s in your area. Make a list of things under € 10 which could make work show the world that we’re a team! Our Swiss colleagues have more fun for you and your co-workers. For example, our communi- already taken great steps internally in this direction. Starting next cations colleague in Switzerland sent us chocolates to sweeten up year, they will also send an external signal with a single-brand strategy our day. As you can see, the topic of food is very in with us right that you can read more about on page 10 of this issue of Inform. And now. And in this issue of Inform. In our section “People at STRABAG”, since we’re in the neighbourhood, they’ll show us their favourite we introduce you to some colleagues of yours who have devoted places in Zurich (page 42). themselves to cooking and baking, which for them – after eating – is the most beautiful thing in the world. Some of our other colleagues want to show you something, too, and help you while they’re at it: over 120 elected employee repre- Read more in this issue of Inform about what your colleagues sentatives are there for you when you need them. Find out more have been doing at work or in private. Wishing you plenty of “spying” about how exactly they can help on page 31. Not so much on an enjoyment, individual as on a global level is where our timber construction or central technical employees see their contribution to improving our Your Diana Neumüller-Klein standard of living. Read more about green technologies (page 28) or how a quarry has agreed to barter with nature (page 4).
02 www.strabag.com inform 24 Contents
CONTENTS
News 04 GIVING BACK TO NATURE Corporate Social Responsibility 05 FIT FOR THE FUTURE Healthcare at STRABAG 06 EUROPE’S CITIES ARE GROWING Celebration time 08 DID YOU KNOW...? STRAkono 09 YOUNG EUROPEAN ART STRABAG Artaward International 2012 10 BECOMING STRONGER New single-brand strategy in Switzerland 11 5 QUESTIONS FOR... Interview 12 DIVERSE UNITY Career news COVER STORY 15 CONCRETELY CONCRETE The foundation of modern civilisation PEOPLE AT STRABAG 23 COOKING IT UP STRABAG employees in the spotlight Strabag units 28 SUSTAINABLE BUILDING = BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Green technologies 30 CRANE SPECIALISTS AT WORK Crane assemblies in Austria 31 EMPLOYEE COUNSELLING AS A FULL-TIME JOB Full-time employee representatives PROJECTS 32 THE TOWERS ARE DANCING Successful teamconcept in Hamburg 34 HIGH-TECH CANCER TREATMENT New therapy centre in Cracow 35 ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BUILDING Timber construction in Switzerland 36 BRIDGING EUROPE Building bridges in Romania 38 140 YEARS MARGARET BRIDGE Bridge overhaul in Hungary 39 ALPINE AVALANCHE CONTROL Avalanche defence in Austria 40 FLOOD PROTECTION Building dams against high water
SPECIALS 42 ZURICH: MY CITY The favourite places of STRABAG employees 44 HOLLAND VS. SPAIN STRABAG goes on a company outing 47 SUDOKU Seeking the puzzle king
E vents 46 THE OLYMPIC GAMES AT STRABAG Sports events
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area with the aim of providing a new home to various species of animal. Unlike had been done in the past, the focus here is more on full land restoration instead of just revegetation. Rather than creating “nature second-hand”, the restoration process should create the right conditions to allow nature to develop of its own accord, in a site-appropriate manner and with a high level of biodiversity. The goal is to restore an area with a total size of 180,000 m² over the coming years.
THE LIVING QUARRY
As part of the project, students from the technology-focused secondary school HTL Mödling made nests for the animal residents using different types of natural material. Bee hotels and bat boxes were placed in the former quarry in June 2012. Further measures CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY discussed with the appropriate experts will be implemented at a later date. “The thought of giving something back to nature comes GIVING BACK TO NATURE first,” says sub-division manager Erik Zechmann.
ANIMAL OBSERVERS Animal observers on our construction sites are nothing No amount of construction could keep a pair of oystercatchers unusual, but these two stories are truly worth telling. from caring for their eggs in the middle of the construction site for They bear witness to a special connection with nature the JadeWeserPort on the North Sea. Three young birds hatched out at the beginning of summer. After discovering the eggs in a sand and the animal kingdom. pile, STRABAG workers carefully moved them to a quieter part of the site and fenced off the area. In the meantime, the young have already flown the nest. It is unsure whether they will return next year. Austria/Germany. Dolomite has been mined from the quarry of Perhaps to check out the new harbour? Mineral Abbau GmbH in Gaaden, south of Vienna, since the 1970s. Today the extraction of material has already come to a close in a part CONTACT: Andreas Mittermeir, International + Special of the area. Divisions, Group Division Building Materials 6V, Sub-Division Stone/Gravel AT/HU/HR/Balkans (RS)
MORE THAN AN OBLIGATION CONTACT: Stefan Windhorst, North + West, Group Division Transportation Infrastructures Germany North 6I, The quarry is located within the Vienna Woods protected land- Sub-Division Düsseldorf (DC) scape, making land restoration and revegetation a legal obligation. “But for us, this obligation didn’t go far enough,” explains Andreas Mittermeir, division manager at the Gaaden quarry. A little more than a year ago, planning began on the restoration of the former mining
The oystercatcher has found its nest on our construction site (left). A new home for bats and bees 04 www.strabag.com inform 24 News
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HEALTHCARE AT STRABAG In brief + +
Tunnelling contract at world’s largest copper mine FIT FOR THE FUTURE On 10 July 2012, STRABAG was awarded the contract for a new tunnelling project at the world’s largest copper mine Within the daily work routine, it is easy to lose sight of the in the Chilean desert. The contract is worth € 100 million. Working with a local partner, STRABAG is building several employees’ physical and emotional needs. STRABAG, tunnels to improve the infrastructure of the Chilean copper Building Construction Upper Austria, responded by mine. launching the project “Fit for the Future: Maintaining Work Fitness”. Züblin officially opens new company building in Karlsruhe
Austria. Construction is physically strenuous work. STRABAG, The Karlsruhe sub-division on 18 July 2012 celebrated the Building Construction Upper Austria, in 2010 introduced BauFIT official opening of its new office building in Karlsruhe. The (a component of “Fit for the Future”), a programme of measures for seven-storey building creates room for the more than 160 ergonomic work on the construction site for industrial workers. The employees from the sub-division and from other STRABAG programme got its start during construction for the Linz Music group companies. Theatre, providing workers with exercise as well as tips for occupa- tional safety at the construction site. Site manager Daniel Zeller: “I was the first to start with this programme on a construction site and had mixed feelings at the time. But already that evening I received positive feedback. Several colleagues have said they can already notice a change. BauFIT was especially well received by people when done as a group.”
To ensure the aims of BauFIT in the long term, STRABAG monitor, working under deadlines or poor eating habits. An external trained internal BauFIT disseminators to observe their colleagues for expert helped to reposition and adjust the desks and office chairs proper working techniques and to provide assistance if needed. The and showed employees a number of preventive relaxation and programme is now being carried out nationwide in Austria. “The stretching exercises. physical exercise of work alone is not enough to maintain work fitness. The actions from the ‘Fit for the Future’ programme offer a basis for Sub-division manager Johann Schmatzer is pleased by the a successful and healthy future for our employees,” believes Jürgen increasing health consciousness and wants to continue along the Bänsch, STRABAG health and safety expert and internal project same path: “It is important for us that such campaigns have a lasting coordinator of “Fit for the Future”. effect, as we are concerned about the health of our workers. The company invests in this initiative and profits from the health of its employees – everyone gets something out of it!” ADMINISTRATIVE FITNESS CONTACT: Jürgen Bänsch, Service Companies, Of course we haven’t forgotten about our office workers. The Central Division TPA, Sub-Division Austria/Adriatic (04) programme also helps to prevent stress from long hours at the
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Other initiatives related to “Fit for the Future” include: health days, work ability coaching, clothes drying facilities on large construction sites, exercise using the staircase as a fitness studio, nutrition workshops and spinal screenings.
The wrong way and the right way to lift heavy objects 05 News
CAPITAL MARKET COMPLIANCE CELEBRATION TIME MISUSE OF INSIDER EUROPE’S CITIES ARE INFORMATION FOR- GROWING BIDDEN! STRABAG and Raiffeisen have a lot in common. The working relationship as client and contractor has already International. Capital market compliance – behind this somewhat cumbersome word lie yielded a number of projects that have been crowned some important rules for all employees within the with success. In Vienna, Bucharest and Moscow, the two STRABAG Group. companies recently celebrated the completion of three Shares of STRABAG SE are traded on the Vienna joint projects. Stock Exchange. Companies listed on the stock market in Austria are required to regularly instruct their employees that it is illegal to misuse insider information. Insider information is understood as International. In Austria, a “Gleichenfeier” is held to mark the confidential company information, knowledge of completion of a building’s main structure. This Austrian topping-out which could considerably influence the price of tradition was celebrated in Vienna, Bucharest and Moscow. STRABAG SE shares. It is not allowed to use insider information for purposes of stock market speculation. This prohibition is designed to protect WORLD’S FIRST PASSIVHAUS OFFICE IN VIENNA investors and to create fairness on the capital market. The celebration in Vienna took place on 24 July 2012 following completion of the main structure of the new 77 m Raiffeisen annex The misuse of insider information is a punishable after just nine months of construction. The topping-out ceremony offence that carries a possible prison sentence of was attended by the management of client Raiffeisen as well as by up to five years. Even if the insider information is STRABAG SE management board members Thomas Birtel, Peter not used for personal advantage, it is a crime to Krammer and Siegfried Wanker. The clients thanked the entire con- pass it on to others. The offending employee may struction team for their dedication and commitment. also face disciplinary measures.
Example: while working on the annual report, an employee learns in advance of an especially high net profit. It is not permitted to use this information to buy STRABAG shares, which would likely gain considerably in value following the report’s publi- cation.
STRABAG SE has put together a set of compli- ance guidelines, available in the STRAnet, to help employees in their dealings with insider information. KONZERN > Managementsystem > STRABAG Compliance Richtlinie.
CONTACT: Mario Grossegger, Service Companies, Central Staff Division CLS
Proud: SE management board member Thomas Birtel and apprentice Ivan Baotic at the topping out for the Raiffeisen building in Vienna
Construction of the new Raiffeisen building along Vienna’s Danube Canal involved filling an especially difficult space between
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the existing buildings. The foundation and earthworks construction MODERN BUILDING IN MOSCOW proved extremely complicated given the proximity to two shallow foundation high-rise buildings and the requirement for a 6-level Another STRABAG project in a European capital got underway underground car park. Various improvements led to a reduction of at the end of 2010: the construction of a hotel and office building for the originally planned construction time from seven days per level to Raiffeisen Evolution in Moscow. The topping-out ceremony was held five, helping to meet the tight schedule requirements. Thanks to the on 4 June 2012. The construction team spent a long time looking enormous dedication of all involved, it was also possible to achieve forward to this special celebration, which was held strictly according pre-certification as the world’s first PassivHaus standard office build- to Austrian tradition. Even the Russian colleagues wore traditional ing from the Austrian Institute for Building Biology and Building Austrian dress, a tree was placed on top of the roof and a traditional Ecology. carpenter’s saying was recited in German and in Russian:
‘Tis time to celebrate the work behind us, BUCHAREST’S TALLEST HIGH-RISE BUILDING The workman rests his skilful hand. Hard days of toil they lie behind us, The economic crisis had put the Floreasca City Center (FCC) The tree stands proudly o’er the land. project in Bucharest on shaky ground. Following entry of Raiffeisen The modern office building with adjoining hotel offers enough room with 16,000 m² of office and hotel space and features an impressive gallery extending from the ground floor to the second level.
Construction of the Floreasca City Center in the Romanian capital of A unique sight: the topping-out ceremony in Moscow in traditional Bucharest is proceeding at a brisk pace. Austrian dress
Property Holding International (RPHI) as an investor in the two com- CONTACT: Robert Gipfl, South + East, Group Division ponent projects FCC Sky Tower and Office, and thanks to the good Building Construction & Civil Engineering Austria 3C, working relationship with STRABAG, the project got underway in Sub-Division Vienna (AP) 2011. The main structure of the FCC Sky Tower was completed on time in May/June 2012, cause for all involved to celebrate this success CONTACT: Adolf Steiner, South + East, Group Division with a traditional topping out in Bucharest on 28 June 2012. The Building Construction & Civil Engineering Europe 3H, management of STRABAG, Raiffeisen Property Holding International Sub-Division Romania/Bulgaria/Moldova (NT) and Raiffeisen Evolution were on hand to personally extend their thanks to the approximately 800 workers. CONTACT: Andre Karkossa, South + East, Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering RANC 3L, The FCC project consists of three building components: the Sub-Division Caspian (NP) FCC Sky Tower and Office as well as the Promenada Mall. With a height of 137 m, the Sky Tower is the highest tower in Bucharest. The building has a gross floor space of approx. 77,000 m². The tower was built in the record time of just over one year (5-6 days per standard floor) using 11,000 t of reinforcement steel and 49,200 m³ of con- crete. Raiffeisenbank Romania has already been signed as a future tenant for the office buildings and for six floors of the FCC Sky Tower.
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STRAkono KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT @ STRABAG
Rising competition and innovative pressure, as well as our DID YOU KNOW...? growing internationalisation, make it necessary to improve the dis- tribution of company knowledge to multiple locations and to provide greater ease of access to these resources. In May of this year, the Have you ever wondered how much time you spend management board of STRABAG SE resolved to introduce knowledge management across the entire group in order to facilitate the every week looking for information or contacts within process of information retrieval. STRABAG sees knowledge manage- the group? Our knowledge management can help you ment as an integrated process that touches on corporate culture, organisation and tools. Marc Pühringer was nominated Group in your search. Knowledge Manager to coordinate the introduction of the various knowledge management measures.
International. Did you know that our tunnelling staff had to spend more than 500 hours researching general company infor- CENTRAL SEARCH mation for a tender in the pre-bidding phase because the client had requested the information? This case is not unusual within the Besides testing an internal communications platform, preparing group. employee profiles, and identifying knowledge and information, an important first step on the way towards an improved information flow was to set up a central search function. Starting in Q4 2012, a STRAnet search function will allow employees to search the STRAnet “Long-term success requires a more open culture database and the Lotus Notes phonebook using Google technology. and more transparency. Only shared knowledge is “Users will find the desired information more quickly and receive a valuable knowledge.” clearer presentation of the search results,” explains Marc Pühringer. Marc Pühringer, Group Knowledge Manager In the future, the central search function will allow users to search even more databases in addition to the STRAnet and the Lotus Notes phonebook. Folders with perfectly organised information are often neatly filed away in office cabinets or on shared directories with access CONTACT: Marc Pühringer, Service Companies, limited to a restricted group of users. This is supposed to change. Central Staff Division Contract Management
Instruments of knowledge management 08 www.strabag.com inform 24 News
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the majority of artists, was surpassed by those from Poland: 340 artists from Poland, 252 from Austria, 176 from Romania and 137 from Russia presented their works to be shortlisted. After several weeks of deliberation by the seven-member jury of experts repre- senting all four participating countries, 78 artists were invited to the final selection in April 2012. Three original works per artist, from the various disciplines of painting, mixed technique and drawing, were collected in the STRABAG headquarters in Warsaw (Pruszkow), Bucharest and Moscow and transported to Vienna. The jury was thus presented with 234 works of art to judge in the art lounge at the STRABAG House in Vienna. “The extensive organisation of the STRABAG Art Award International: The 2012 prize-winning artists contest required more than six months of hard work, but working together with the Art Award team together with the artists is always a new and exciting challenge,” says Tanja Skorepa of the STRABAG Art Forum.
STRABAG ART AWARD INTERNATIONAL 2012 THE JURY DECIDES
YOUNG EUROPEAN ART Five especially talented artists emerged out of this enormous diversity of applicants: Tomek Baran from Poland, Svenja Deininger from Austria, Egor Koshelev from Russia as well as Maxim Liulca The fourth presentation of the STRABAG Art Award and Tara von Neudorf from Romania. International took place in June 2012 at STRABAG’s Donau In the end, Svenja Deininger from Austria was selected prize City location in Vienna. The interest among participating winner of the STRABAG Art Award International 2012 at the official awards ceremony in June 2012. Hans Peter Haselsteiner, CEO of artists was higher than ever before, with more than STRABAG SE, presented the coveted award to the happy winner. 900 applicants. This was the first time that young artists The four other nominees received a complimentary award. from Poland, Romania and Russia were allowed to apply in CONTACT: Wilhelm Weiss/Tanja Skorepa/Barbara Baum, addition to applicants from permanent participant Austria. STRABAG Art Forum
Austria. Founded in the early 1990s, the STRABAG Art Forum has successfully organised the STRABAG Art Award for the past 15 years. 2012 marked the fourth announcement of the STRABAG Art Award International. The list of participating nations was changed three years after the last international award, with Poland, Romania and Russia taking the place of Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Austria, as home to STRABAG’s group headquarters, remains a permanent participant. Rotating the list of participating Hans Peter Haselsteiner countries every three years lends the award an enormous sense of presents the coveted Art dynamism and suspense. “As in the past, the exciting insight into Award. Europe’s young art scene, with a variety of different exhibitions from the new prize winners, will be sure to enrich the STRABAG Art Forum programme,” says Barbara Baum, artistic director of the STRABAG Art Forum.
NEW RECORD NUMBER OF APPLICANTS
More than 900 artists submitted their portfolio for consideration. The Art Award’s great renown meant that the list of Austrian applicants included many artists who had already applied in previous years. This year the number of applications from Austria, which usually represents News inform 24
News
NEW SINGLE-BRAND STRATEGY IN SWITZERLAND BECOMING STRONGER
Beginning in 2013, the group will do business on the Swiss market under the single brand name STRABAG. Such an important strategic step also requires the right com- munication. On 15 June 2012, our Swiss colleagues were personally informed of the new single-brand strategy.
Switzerland. The name of the project, “Crescendo”, comes companies Astrada and Brunner Erben and to get to know each from the world of music and means “becoming stronger”. To avoid other better. “To be successful, everyone needs familiarity and a “decrescendo”, it is important to be serious about realising the recognition,” he went on to say. “And just like a family, we also need jointly agreed principles, Eduard Dusek, the technical division a common name.” That is an important step towards a common manager, explained to the Swiss colleagues. He presented the new identity. strategy together with his colleagues Franz Urban, commercial division manager, Peter Murer, Chairman of the Board of Directors Peter Murer stressed: “The challenges today and in the near of STRABAG Switzerland, and Reinhard Kerschner, technical sub- future are so diverse that we will only be able to deal with them division manager and the integration representative in Switzerland. together. I therefore ask you all to support our strategy decision.” A friendly chuckle went through the audience as Franz Urban In his presentation, Eduard Dusek pointed out all that has attempted a Swiss “Grüezi” before focusing on STRABAG’s most already been achieved. Under the project name of “Crescendo”, important three values: quality, sustainability and integration. the year 2011 was used to learn more about the newly acquired Reinhard Kerschner had a personal story to tell: “My Swiss colleagues pointed out to me that our construction sites often Info + + looked like the Bourbaki army. As an Austrian, I had no idea what they were talking about since I didn’t know who that was,” he Employee opinions on the new single-brand strategy in admitted. Charles Denis Bourbaki was the commander of the Switzerland. French Army of the East during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71. After several devastating defeats, he and 87,000 hungry and freez- What do you think employees can do to contribute to the ing soldiers received asylum in Switzerland. “The reference alludes new single-brand strategy? to our brand diversity, which often makes us appear very motley and “600 years ago, we drove the Habsburgs out of Switzerland – non-uniform. To change this image required hundreds of different and now they’re back! So we may as well let them in.” activities. The most difficult part, however, takes place in our heads.” Walter Wyssling (Technical Group Manager Ground Engi- neering and about 15 years at Brunner Erben AG) CONTACT: Carina Leopold, South + East, Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering Austria/Switzer- What does it mean for STRABAG that the other companies land 3B, Sub-Division Techn. Staff Divisions CH (BN) will soon have the same name? “We’ve already been playing on the same team; we just haven’t had the same jerseys on.” Roger Stehli (Technical Group Manager Civil Engineering and 5 years at STRABAG AG)
Today you are being informed internally. At a later date, we will also inform the public as well as our clients and business partners. How do you think they will react? “I’m sure they will take the news positively. After all, it makes things easier for them.” Dominik Berger (around 9 years as construction foreman at Astrada AG)
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INTERVIEW 5 QUESTIONS FOR...
Fritz Oberlerchner resigned from the management board of STRABAG SE on 30 June 2012 to accept a new challenge as director of the STRABAG 2013ff task force. The task force will analyse the group’s organisational structure. Inform met with Fritz Oberlerchner for an interview.
You’ve been with the company since 1971 – what are the most important milestones of your career? I began as a building construction engineer at a small building firm in Carinthia. In March 1971, I was presented with the opportunity of switching to road construction. Günter Kerner brought me to Lower Austria to work at ASPHALTBAU. I went to Hungary in 1989, Cologne in 1998, and I have in Vienna in since 2008 – I’ve remained a road builder all this time. Fritz Oberlerchner is director of the STRABAG What was your biggest challenge? 2013ff task force. That was in July 1989. The iron curtain still divided Europe into East and West. We had just purchased the state-owned Hungarian company Magyar Aszfalt. I quickly learned what it means to come Profile of Ing. Fritz Oberlerchner from the comfort of the familiar and work in a foreign country. Hungary was the first Eastern Bloc country to move away from a BORN planned economy, privatise businesses and begin the transformation 16 June 1948 towards a social market economy. There was an enormous spirit of optimism and immense business opportunities. Unfortunately, the GRADUATED Hungarian economy recently took another turn for the worse. 1968 HTL Hochbau in Villach
Is there still something new for you to discover in the company? 1971 On a professional level, there is little I don’t know. But I am still sur- joined the STRABAG Group prised on a daily basis how differently we (our employees) think and (ASPHALTBAU Ges.m.b.H.) work – and it doesn’t matter whether you’re a man or a woman, young or old, Austrian, German or Hungarian… FROM 1994 member of the STRABAG group management Are there concrete plans as to the direction in which a restruc- board turing of STRABAG should go? My assignment is completely open-ended. All constellations are MOTTO FOR LIFE possible for now and should be openly assessed. Our goal is to find Live and let live a business model that brings long-term results.
In this issue of Inform we introduce readers to a number of employees who like to cook. What is your favourite food? Do you like to cook? The kitchen is the domain of my wife, and I can’t compete with her there. My favourite food is Carinthian cheese noodles, which are a bit like ravioli. Of course, my wife’s taste the best.
Thank you for the interview!
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News Career
INTERNATIONAL TRAINING CAREER NEWS FROM SCHOOL DIVERSE UNITY DROPOUT TO Our buildings and structures are not the only things that SCHOLAR are unique and complex – so are the people who work for us. Our employees come from all over the world, speak all sorts of different languages, and work on a variety of different projects, yet they are all connected through STRABAG.
An international working environment, a diversity of opportunities, and attractive conditions: STRABAG strives to offer its employees a wide range of opportunities for personal and professional development. This diversity forms the basis of our business success. Twelve years of continuing education and no end in sight
Austria. Christoph Lagger dropped out of school at 16: earning money seemed more important to him than learning. He applied for one of the first IT apprenticeship programmes and was chosen as one of 12 trainees. The programme required that he do a period of practical training at a company, and BRVZ-IT in Spittal/Drau offered him a chance to do just that.
Working with computers interests the young software engineer enormously, something which does not go unnoticed by his employer. BRVZ offers him the chance to do his apprenticeship exclusively with the company, and he completes his training in 2004. “That’s when I thought that I have to deepen my knowledge,” says Christoph Lagger. He begins by catching up on his school- “I have worked with people leaving certificate, which he obtains in 2005. of many different nationalities, and my experiences have always Eager to learn more, he stills his thirst for knowl- been extremely positive, interest- edge by studying informatics at the University of ing and truly enriching.” Klagenfurt. To write his master’s thesis, he even spends five months working as a research Ilknur Ozmen (39), a native of Turkey, studied at the Technical assistant in Florida. “Doing research in a foreign University in Ankara. In 1996, she began her career as a construc- country is a truly special experience. It was a big tion planner, working on construction sites all over Turkey. A project step and I would do it again!” Christoph earned in 2006 took her to Qatar. In 2009, she was hired to work on the his master’s degree in March 2012. construction of the expressway to the Tripoli Airport for STRABAG Libya. Ilknur is currently working on the A15 PPP project as technical onsite manager in the Netherlands.
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Career News
“Important for me are dependability, openness, ambi- tion and a willingness to learn. It “Believe; that is all you have doesn’t matter where a person to do.” is from.”
Nabeel Khokhar (43) was born in Pakistan. He went to school Peter Fabo (46) grew up in Slovakia. He studied technical in England until his family moved to Hong Kong when he was 13. He operation of telecommunications at the University of Transport and returned to England to study before gaining his first professional Communications. Since graduating in 1990, Peter can look back experience in construction dispute resolution in Hong Kong. In 2001, on many years of professional experience in the field of telecom- Nabeel joined Züblin International in Lebanon, where he worked on munications. The engineer joined the STRABAG Group in 2008 with the construction of the Lebanese University. Due to the political situ- the acquisition of Slovakia-based DeTeImmobilien by STRABAG ation in the country, he went to Stuttgart in 2006. In 2010, Nabeel PFS. In 2012, he received the opportunity to work abroad. Today, was appointed managing director of CLS Construction Legal Ser- Peter works as site engineer for the data centres of STRABAG in vices and head of CLS’s international legal department in Vienna, the Netherlands. where he still works today.
“Working in Russia was an extremely valuable experience. I “My goal for the future is to participated in some impressive use my knowledge when working projects and got to know more on important structures abroad.” about a truly fantastic country.”
Marton Györffy (29) was born in Budapest. Right after finishing Siniša Neškovic (34) is originally from Serbia but grew up in his studies, the young site engineer got a job working on the Buda- Germany. After his studies in construction engineering and business pest Metro. During this time, he also completed an additional aca- in Stuttgart, he started working for Züblin South-East Europe. In demic education in tunnelling. Marton taught himself German and 2007, Siniša was sent to the Moscow sub-division, where he worked English speaking with his colleagues. Since February 2012, the in-house as well as with the site management for large-scale projects ambitious young engineer has been working for STRABAG in India including the Sky Fort residential complex in Moscow and the sheet on the Rohtang Tunnel project. steel rolling mill in Vyksa. He came back to Germany in March 2012, where he now is site manager for Milaneo Center Stuttgart.
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inform 24 Cover Story
THE FOUNDATION OF MODERN CIVILISATION CONCRETELY CONCRETE
Thousands of people work with concrete every day, producing, processing, investigating or researching this universal material. Whether exposed concrete, wet concrete, high-tech concrete, shotcrete or standard concrete, STRABAG uses the material to build structures of all sizes – both above and below ground.
International. “Opus caementicium” was the name for a con- crete-like material used for centuries by the Romans. But knowledge of this binding substance, which stabilised temples, aqueducts, arenas and houses where people could go about their business protected from the elements, goes back even further than that: as early as 14,000 years ago, craftsmen in Asia Minor used mortar made of burnt lime to set stones. Concrete is not only long-lasting, it also makes it possible to build bigger and more challenging struc- tures. Even today, more than 1,700 years later, the Pantheon in Rome still leads the list of the world’s largest unreinforced concrete domes.
Many different compositions of concrete exist depending on the quality requirements and the scope of application. These are devel- oped in our own research laboratories before they are applied by specialists on site. Hundreds of people are busy in our laboratories, working closely together with the on-site staff, to find the best solu- tion for what often are quite exceptional structures.
In order to carry out projects more efficiently while delivering a higher level of quality, STRABAG invested € 15 million in research and development in the 2011 financial year. The competence centres of our Central Technical Department (ZT) and our TPA Company for Quality Assurance and Innovation (TPA) give us con- stant access to internal experts.
The Drautalperle aquatic centre in Spittal/Drau: STRABAG not only built the striking reinforced concrete façade, but also delivered the materials itself.
15 Cover Story inform 24 Materials HISTORY Concrete is characterised by its diversity and simplicity.
MILESTONES IN CON- THE CONCRETE FACTS
CRETE DEVELOPMENT Because of its durability and longevity, concrete has relatively low lifecycle costs. It protects against noise, damp, heat, cold and fire. It is considered a short-distance material because it can be pro- 1st century AD duced locally, is recyclable and energy-efficient, and can be used as Concrete gains its breakthrough. The Romans, an active heat accumulator or cooling element. recognising the enormous opportunities which this material makes possible, built domes, arches, bridges… structures which do not fail to amaze CONCRETE DESIGN us to the present day. Still, as everyone knows, concrete does not exactly enjoy the 2nd century AD best reputation. Derogative word creations such as “concrete block” Construction of the Pantheon in Rome. Up to the or “concrete jungle” clearly highlight the poor image of the mate- year 1913, the Pantheon holds the record as the rial. world’s largest concrete dome, with an interior diameter of 43 m. But concrete can be so much more than cold, smooth and grey. It can open up undreamt-of dimensions in the world of design. In the 1824 hands of an artist, concrete becomes a material of creativity shaped The process to manufacture Portland cement is into new forms. Its wide range of possible application makes it a patented. favourite among artists and architects alike. Increasingly, concrete is not hidden away from sight, but, on the contrary, is openly pre- 1845 sented as an element of style. Kitchens, cabinets, seating furniture The first precast concrete elements are made in are designed, poured, polished and coloured – even small elements Germany. such as vases and clocks.
1867 As simple as concrete is in its original composition, it is French gardener Josef Monier patents his rein- incredibly varied as to its inner qualities and outer appearance: forced horticultural troughs, marking the origins lean or massive, high-tech or standard – there are no limits to the of the principle of reinforced concrete. possibilities.
1890 The invention of prestressed concrete, a variant of RESEARCH FOR THE ENVIRONMENT reinforced concrete, by German engineer C. F. W.
Döhring, makes it possible to build concrete struc- The impact of CO2 emissions on our climate is an important tures capable of supporting even higher loads. contemporary issue and a problem to which STRABAG, as a con- struction company, has decided to take a responsible approach. 1902
The world’s first iron-reinforced concrete sky- As part of its focus on the reduction of CO2 emissions during the scraper is built in the US (16-storey Ingalls Build- production of concrete, STRABAG is looking to address the call for ing, Cincinnati, iron-reinforced concrete frame). an environmentally neutral construction material on the one hand while maintaining quality on the other. “Special attention must be 1903 given to maintaining the performance of concrete, e.g. in terms of Ready-mixed concrete is patented, making it its early strength or curing sensitivity,” explains Marcus Walz of TPA, possible to transport concrete over longer dis- Concrete Technology International. tances. But it is not until after World War II, with
advances in transport vehicles, that ready-mixed Using more additives can help reduce the amount of CO2 emis- concrete gains its breakthrough. sions. Approximately 10 % of concrete consists of binder. The main binding agent during the 20th century was Portland cement, 1968 the production of which involves a high level of carbon emissions. Regulated set cement is patented in the US.
…many more developments are sure to follow.
16 www.strabag.com inform 24 Cover Story Materials As this does not fit with STRABAG’s ecological principles, we are pursuing the development of new production processes for binding
agents with lower CO2 emissions.
ENSURING PROPRIETARY SUPPLY
A long-term company goal is to produce all of the materials required for proprietary construction ourselves in order to increase our independence from external suppliers, prices and fluctuating quality.
The construction of buildings and structures of different types, designs and of the highest quality requires the availability of the necessary construction materials in the required amounts and composition. At best, these should be available regionally. For this reason, STRABAG currently operates 177 concrete mixing facilities 177 group-owned facilities guarantee our concrete supply in Austria, Germany, Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, Romania, Switzer- land, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Hungary. These concrete production sites produce concrete within the group for large con- struction sites as well as for private buyers – of the best quality, in the desired amount and adapted to fit the specific requirements of the job.
In 2011, some 4.6 million m³ of concrete were produced within the group, half of it in Poland, Germany and Hungary. In the same period, STRABAG and its subsidiaries used the enormous amount of 5.81 million m³. There are plans to cover an even greater share of the need with proprietary resources. Our asphalt production serves as an example, with a degree of proprietary coverage of 83 %. Con- crete also plays an important role in today’s transportation infra- structures segment.
What is concrete? RECIPE
The recipe for concrete is quite simple, with all the basic But the basic ingredients are not the only thing of impor- ingredients found plentifully in nature: limestone, clay, sand, tance; the composition matters as well. When making cement gravel and water. from limestone and clay, the right preparation of the materials and the production process are decisive factors determining the The necessary raw materials are mined at one of 187 group- quality of the end product. By adding water, the cement binds owned stone quarries and gravel pits in Central and Eastern the aggregate, hardens and becomes the stronger material Europe. In this way, the STRABAG Group can cover up to one known as concrete. third of its stone and gravel needs itself.
17 Cover Story inform 24 innovation The little-known, environmentally friendly side of concrete: energy storage for solar and wind energy.
ENERGY FROM CONCRETE
Sun and wind are the inexhaustible energy sources of the future. One problem with solar, wind and photovoltaic systems, however, has been the unsolved question of how to store excess energy. Our Central Technical Department (ZT), working together with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and TPA’s Concrete Technology International division, has developed an efficient thermal energy storage system using concrete as its basis.
The high-temperature thermal energy storage system for power plants with solar direct evaporation stores the energy from the super- Using concrete to store thermal energy heated steam in concrete to allow power generation even at night. To test the efficiency of the system under real conditions, a test facility was opened in March 2011 in Carboneras, Spain. The construction of the thermal energy storage system was carried out under supervi- sion by TPA.
The goal of the project is to increase the energy conversion efficiency of solar power plants, come up with a storage material for temperatures of up to 500°C and develop a constitutive equation as a model for the thermal and mechanical damage to the concrete during temperature load cycles. T echnik
Z entrale Innovative research
In the past, innovative thinking and innovative practice did an internal competence centre, Zentrale Technik pursues the not appear to be compatible with the construction sector; goal of expanding the company’s competitive advantage through research and development were the reserve of other branches technically and qualitatively challenging as well as resource- of industry. But remaining competitive in the construction sector friendly solutions. also requires a wide range of technologies and know-how, something which the group has access to thanks to its large number of experts and specialists. Our Zentrale Technik (Central Technical Department) employs more than 600 employees. As
18 www.strabag.com inform 24 Cover Story innovation The use of concrete at high temperatures affects quality, it is dangerous and uneconomic.
COOL CONCRETE IN THE DESERT
It is a well-known fact that concrete cracks at high tempera- tures. Not so well-known is that our Mobil Baustoffe subsidiary (Sub-Division RD) has found an efficient solution.
Concrete curing is a chemical reaction between cement and water. This process releases heat. If exterior temperatures are high enough, curing can generate dangerous exothermic heat and, during the cooling process, result in large – and therefore critical – cracks. Preventing this from happening often requires the use of highly inefficient and energy-intensive equipment. Mobilxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Baustoffe works with concrete in desert regions. “We have developed a cooling system that can very effectively cool the coarse aggregate in a water bath,” explains Rudolf Kauper, RD sub-division manager and managing director of Mobil Baustoffe. “Nearly all concrete qualities are improved as a result, the consist- ency is more even and additives have a better effect: an improve- ment all along the line.”
This cooling system was initially developed for the market requirements in Qatar. There the system was even made ready for mass production and was used on the construction site for the Ras Laffan port facility.
The system is ideal for all regions in which concrete must be effec- tively cooled. For many large projects, cooling with this system would be the more economic alternative to conventional procedures. B a u stoffe
Always and everywhere M obil
The processing conditions of concrete make it desirable to The experts at Mobil Baustoffe also serve as consultants for produce the material on site. Mobil Baustoffe is a specialist in all aspects related to concrete, from the tendering phase through regional concrete production for large construction sites. Always construction all the way to structural maintenance. adapted to meet the specific needs of a project, Mobil Baustoffe develops optimal mixing facilities with the right logistic concepts. It sets up and operates the necessary facilities according to the required quality and amount directly on site and handles the full disassembly once construction is over.
19 Cover Story inform 24 Research TPA analysed and calculated the optimal concreting conditions using finite element programs.
MATHEMATICALLY CORRECT
Storm tides regularly threaten the coast of Northern Europe. Especially at risk are the extensive coastal plains, which reach far into the hinterland and are inadequately protected against the unstoppable masses of water. The flat areas along the Baltic coast are among the most vulnerable regions. The existing flood protec- tion facilities are not enough to properly protect the nearby city of Greifswald from extreme storm tides. The Greifswald-Wieck flood barrier opposes the water masses during storm tides.
A unique aspect of its construction was the use of finite element Flood barrier on the Baltic coast: protection from high water programs: the calculations and analyses allowed TPA, Concrete Technology International, to use simulations of non-steady-state temperature fields to show under which conditions (weather, the temperature of freshly mixed concrete, etc.) the required values for the optimal use of concrete can be maintained. The process also allowed for the documentation of the effects of cooling the construc- tion elements in case of a worst-case scenario of high air tempera- tures and high concrete temperatures.
Using these simulations makes it possible to optimally adapt the concreting time and implementation to the weather conditions. These analyses yielded enormous cost savings.
TPA Technology of the future
Our TPA Gesellschaft für Qualitätssicherung und Innovation TPA’s research is extremely broad and covers everything (TPA Company for Quality Assurance and Innovation) offers a very from numerical procedures such as lifespan measurements, extensive range of services. It all begins with informational consul- quality forecasts or the simulation of non-steady-state tempera- tation for our operating units concerning concrete technology at ture and tension fields to the production of special concrete for all phases of our work. But TPA also assists in procurement and building construction, civil engineering and tunnelling, the devel- develops “tailor-made” concrete recipes when needed. Addition- opment of special test procedures, as well as areas of applica- ally, TPA handles quality assurance during concrete production tion in which the unique properties of concrete are optimally used. as well as materials receiving inspection at the construction sites.
20 www.strabag.com inform 24 Cover Story Research STRABAG, together with the Graz University of Technology, Interview developed state-of-the-art concrete structures using high-perfor- mance and ultra-high-performance concrete. MISTER CONCRETE
ULTRA-LIGHT YET STABLE
Wildbrücke bridge seamlessly integrates itself into the land- scape near Völkermarkt, with no heavy concrete pillars to disturb the natural harmony of the place – made possible thanks to a world pre- miere that was tested here for the first time.
The 157 m long bridge is the world’s first arch bridge of its size built using a new and innovative concrete construction material known as ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC). While conventional concrete consists of cement, water and aggregate, UHPFRC is made by mixing several different components together Torsten Göpfert, concrete technology expert. to form a light-weight concrete. The addition of steel fibres not only gives this concrete a particularly high compressive strength, but it can also absorb high tensile forces. Structures made using UHPC Torsten Göpfert is the group expert for concrete are at least five times as durable as those made using standard con- technology. “Mister Concrete”, as he is affection- crete. This can help cut maintenance costs in half while clearly extend- ately known, is often called in to help when diffi- ing the lifespan of the bridge. cult problems arise or innovative and economical concepts are needed. Wildbrücke bridge was planned and built as part of a research project to test the use of ultra-high-performance concrete and its Concrete has been around for centuries. In profitability in practice. The use of UHPC made it possible to prefab- what areas can research even help anymore? ricate many of the structural components with a significantly higher Thanks to the experiences of the last century, the degree of precision regardless of temperature and weather condi- rulebooks are full of very good descriptions tions and, thanks to their lower weight, to transport them more regarding the minimum requirements for concrete economically to the construction site. The bridge was built by composition. However, these requirements are Sub-Division IE, Civil Engineering Austria West. based mainly on experiences with Portland
cement. Because of the high levels of CO2 emis- sions involved with Portland cement, tomorrow’s concrete must be produced using only a small amount of this binding agent. Research is needed to find out where the limits for the various replace- ment materials are.
What do you find fascinating about concrete? To be honest, I’m not really interested in concrete in its finished state. I find it ugly, cold and dusty. What I enjoy is the development of application- oriented concrete compositions using all sorts of different source materials. That requires not only expertise, but also creativity and passion. The truly fascinating thing is that, despite its centu- ries-long history, there is still so much research to be done and there always are so many new challenges.
Ultra-high-performance concrete was used in the construction of Wildbrücke bridge at Völkermarkt. 21
inform 24 People at STRABAG
STRABAG EMPLOYEES IN THE SPOTLIGHT COOKING IT UP
“Food must first please the eye, then the stomach.” Thus said Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and nothing has changed since: Cooking, after all, is far more than merely preparing a meal. Many of our colleagues enjoy working as creative chefs or confectioners to conjure up culinary delicacies.
International. Move over Jamie Oliver, Anthony Bourdain and Eckart Witzigmann! Our STRABAG co-workers can cook it up with just as much verve as the world’s celebrity chefs, putting lots of time and love into their culinary passion. Their focus is as much on spe- cialty dishes from around the world as regional delicacies. Even pastry chefs should look out for our colleagues! Their pastries and cakes, usually made for special occasions, are often colourful, lavish, creative, multi-storey works of art that are delicious too.
Eating and cooking together forges bonds and creates memo- ries we can look fondly back upon. For some, cooking is soothing and relaxing, others simply love the joy of eating. Whether cooking for oneself or for a large group of guests, trying out exotic dishes or preparing vegan fare – everything is done with the ultimate aim of enjoying.
On the following pages, we introduce you to our colleagues’ culinary side. We hope you are inspired.
Tanja Winkelhofer and her artistic cakes
23 People at STRABAG inform 24
Tanja Winkelhofer
POSITION: Corporate Communications employee COUNTRY: Austria
Chocolate, sugar sprinkles, marzipan: these are the main ingredients for Tanja Winkelhofer’s sweet masterpieces, from colourful tortes to original cakes. Tanja began experimenting in the kitchen when she was 15 to surprise her mother with a homemade Black Forest cake. “Unfortunately, the only thing I ended up making was a big mess,” says Tanja Winkelhofer.
With 18, just before her mother’s 40th birthday, she made her next attempt. After a successful trial run, she began working on the birthday cake. The result was not a simple cake, but a Sachertorte, a chocolate cake three storeys high with sweet floral decorations and sugar sprinkles.
“The best part of cooking is making my family or co-workers happy, for example with my STRABAG cake!”
Since that day, Tanja has been baking even for the “smallest” occa- sions. For Mother’s Day, there was a family tree cake with the first letter of each family member; for her cousin’s baptisms, she sur- prised everyone with cake-pops – little round balls of cake, colour- fully decorated and mounted on a stick, a sort of “lollipop made of dough”. Tanja even attended a course on decoration: “Since then, I mainly bake in order to have something to decorate.”
24 www.strabag.com inform 24 People at STRABAG
Gottfried Holatka
POSITION: Head of Purchasing, Stuttgart Sub-Division COUNTRY: Germany
Gottfried Holatka was not born with a passion for cooking, but he did inherit a love for good food. It was through practical necessity that he discovered the hobby of cooking. In 1980, Gottfried was on assignment for Züblin in Baghdad and, besides the usual tasks of his job, there was another moderately difficult problem waiting for him: the hotel still had to organise proper kitchen operations for the German workers. There was an Iraqi chef, but his cooking was not necessarily to Gottfried’s liking.
“I simply enjoy cooking in large quantities. My colleagues are especially pleased.”
Gottfried asked his wife for help, and she sent him a “Cookbook for Beginners”. That was the beginning of his cooking passion. One of his first dishes was goulash with spätzle. Because his colleagues liked it so much, he was encouraged to tackle other dishes and to pass on his newly gained experience to the local kitchen staff. Soon the Züblin cuisine was known throughout Baghdad.
In 1984, having completed his assignment, he left Baghdad behind, but took his new hobby home with him. From now on, the home kitchen was his domain – much to his wife’s chagrin. “She soon got Bikers and tough guys – we’re looking for you! used to it, however, and now enjoys it when I cook for the family, even if the portions sometimes end up team-sized.” His team-sized Are you often on the road with your Harley, Gold Wing or portions are just the thing when he cooks at the Züblin residence, at Kawasaki? Do you love the sound of the roaring engine and job parties, or at the annual events of a local social club. The biggest the feeling of freedom on two wheels? Then we want to hear compliment for him after another one of his “kitchen sessions” is to from you. For our next issue, we are looking for tough guys hear his colleagues say: “Holli’s cooking is the best!” and strong ladies. Contact us at: STRABAG SE, Corporate Communications, [email protected] (submission deadline: 31 January 2013).
25 People at STRABAG inform 24
Bozena Czekajska
POSITION: Human Resource Development and PR COUNTRY: Poland
“My children aged three and five are my assistant chefs. They love baking and have already specialised in vanilla biscuits, gingerbread and muffins,” says Bozena Czekajska.
Bozena enjoys cooking for others as much as cooking itself. Already as a little girl, she helped her mother roll and mix the dough, cut out cookies or fold up Polish pierogi (filled dumplings).
Holidays are culinary excursions for Bozena, and she always tries to discover and taste a country’s unique culinary traditions. Often she buys the typical ingredients right then and there in order to organise a theme dinner for friends back home. Bozena completed a cooking course in Tuscany where she learned to cook some Italian specialities.
“For me, cooking together, especially with my kids, is a way of sharing an entertaining and creative time.”
In her kitchen in Poland, she conjures up dishes from around the world such as Greek moussaka, Moroccan tajine or Indonesian nasi goreng. But national Polish dishes are also among her favour- ites. Stuffed cabbage leaves, bigos (sauerkraut and meat stew) and zurek (sour soup with sausages) are her specialties. But she always gives the traditional dishes a modern touch.
26 www.strabag.com inform 24 People at STRABAG
Alexander Blickle
POSITION: Team Leader Research & Development 5D Central, 5D Planning COUNTRY: Germany
Alexander Blickle loves to have people over for dinner. On the menu are a juicy schnitzel with potato salad and chocolate cake with coffee for dessert. What’s so special about that? All of his dishes are made entirely using vegan ingredients.
Alexander has been eating 100% vegan for 17 years. He eats no animal products at all – no meat, fish, eggs or dairy products. For many people, being vegan appears to be enormously restrictive and possibly even unhealthy, but for Alexander it is not only a way of life, but also an enriching experience.
“Everyone likes my healthy vegan cuisine. None of my guests have gone home hungry yet.”
In addition to the ethical reasons related to industrial food produc- tion, Alexander also cites the positive effects for one’s health, the climate and the environment as benefits of going vegan. “Eating vegan doesn’t mean having to give up all your usual foods. I love sausages and yoghurt. The selection today is greater than ever before,” he says. When he cooks for friends and relatives, he also makes sure that nobody goes home hungry, but with a satisfied smile and a full stomach. And most people are amazed to discover how many delicious, normal dishes one can make without animal products. “For me as civil engineer, the nutrition even makes perfect sense: the point is to use resources in a sustainable manner, to question things as they are, to find good solutions and to observe the entire lifecycle,” says Alexander Blickle.
27 STRABAG Units inform 24
GREEN TECHNOLOGIES SUSTAINABLE BUILDING = BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
The paradigm shift towards more sustainability is chang- ing the face of the construction industry, with construction clients increasingly demanding sustainable products and processes. The Technology Centre for Sustainable Construction (TNB) at our Central Technical Department (ZT) has been dealing with this groundbreaking matter for several years now.
Germany. TNB provides support and optimises buildings over their entire life cycle. Sustainable buildings are not only cost-effec- tive; they are also environmentally friendly and resource-efficient. In Visualisation of the Z3 showcase project in Stuttgart the past, the focus was on getting a good price; today, aspects of sustainability are leading to increasing considerations of a building’s life cycle. Some 80 % of a building’s costs arise from its operation in order to apply these developments to the field of construction. At and maintenance, with just 20 % due to its construction. the same time, Ed. Züblin AG opted for membership in the newly founded German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB). The Austrian counterpart is the ÖGNI (Austrian Sustainable Real Estate Council), THERE FROM THE START supported by STRABAG SE as a founding member.
In 1983, the United Nations established the World Commission on Environment and Development as an independent organisation SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY of experts. Named after its chairman, Gro Harlem Brundtland, the commission in 1987 published the Brundtland Report, which formu- TNB’s main tasks include providing long-term support for inno- lated the principle of sustainability: vative construction projects. A showcase project is the construction of the new Züblin office building Z3 in Stuttgart. TNB provides the “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs project manager and project coordinator on the client side as well as of the present without compromising the ability of future generations the DGNB auditor. The tasks include: to meet their own needs.” Representation of client interests and project coordination The current version foresees a three-pillar model of equally valid Target definition according to the criteria of sustainability objectives: Preparation and organisation of the architecture competition Auditing and consultancy work for the certification, with an aim Ecological sustainability for DGNB gold certification. Z3 has already received gold pre- Economic sustainability certification. Social sustainability Consultation as to the choice of materials and toxics avoidance
The Technology Centre for Sustainable Construction (TNB) was The TNB team also contributes to handling central staff respon- founded in 2008 as a group within our Zentrale Technik (ZT) division sibilities of Zentrale Technik, e.g. energy management, carbon foot-
28 www.strabag.com inform 24 STRABAG Units
Services:
Certification according to DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) ÖGNI (Austrian Sustainable Real Estate Council) breeam (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Designs)
Life cycle assessment (LCA) Analysis of life cycle costs (LCC) Environmental impact assessment of building materials (product catalogue, avoidance of sick building syndrome) Planning of user comfort Transfer of sustainability
The motivated TNB team
Info + + print or research projects such as “Resource-efficient Buildings for the World of Tomorrow”. Our colleagues in our operating units often have questions regarding the choice of environmentally harmless building One focus of TNB’s activities is the quality assurance of build- products, questions that can usually be answered quickly ings according to DGNB or ÖGNI. TNB makes use of accredited using the materials database developed specifically for this auditors capable of offering extensive consultation work in addition purpose. Inform spoke with Christiane Osterhoff, one of our to the certification. TNB also offers consultation as to the interna- harmful substances experts. tional certification systems. “The demand for certification systems is growing, but we can offer extensive support,” explains Ulrich How relevant are “harmful substances” during turnkey Schweig, director of TNB. construction? The public has become more aware of the subject. In public buildings and during public-sector construction projects that WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD IN STORE? are to be certified according to DGNB or ÖGNI, we measure and analyse the air pollution levels in the building. The meas- For TNB, important topics for the future include research into urements often show values for certain substances that are new possibilities for wood panel construction, the establishment of above the critical limits. This could even mean dismantling energy management in the group, and the separation, dismantling contaminated areas. and recyclability of building products and elements. Where does TNB come in? CONTACT: Ulrich Schweig, Service Companies, We support the client or contractor in the choice of materials Central Division Central Technical Department, and conduct the necessary measurements. We also inspect Sub-Division Central Technical Department Stuttgart (30) the products proposed by the workers before they are installed.
29 STRABAG Units inform 24
CRANE ASSEMBLIES IN AUSTRIA CRANE SPECIALISTS AT WORK Tower anchorage in the lower levels on special cross frame
Cranes are vital for our construction projects. Crane The workers must perform their task with precision and safety, at great heights and at any time of year regardless of the weather operators must be unafraid of heights and they must conditions. The crane operator may not begin his work until the fully perform their work with precision and attention to assembled crane is approved by a civil engineer. safety. But even before a crane operator can climb aboard, our specialists from BMTI are on the job. THE CHOICE OF CRANE IS A DECISIVE FACTOR
The choice of crane plays an especially important role when it Austria. The crane division at BMTI Trumau manages some must be assembled in tight spaces or if special conditions apply to 230 cranes in Austria. The unit’s 21 crane assemblers conduct the site of crane assembly. The close contact the crane masters around 600 assemblies and disassemblies every year. have to the construction site results in an optimal price-to-perfor- mance concept. Assembly is carried out by highly qualified BMTI It takes several people working closely together to assemble crane assemblers. a crane. The crane master coordinates the assembly and sees to it that the machine is set up on schedule and in the right place. This The activities of the BMTI Trumau crane division: requires ordering the crane in time and overseeing assembly of the individual parts in the proper order by the crane assemblers. Development of crane concepts (depending on specific site requirements) Assembly and disassembly Maintenance and repair of rotating tower cranes, self-erecting cranes, passenger and goods elevators, and gantry cranes
HUNDERTWASSER ON THE CONSTRUCTION SITE
For the ARGE EWO Spittelau construction site at Vienna’s waste incineration plant, the façade of which was designed by renowned artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the choice fell on the strongest rotating tower crane of our Austrian fleet – a Liebherr 550 EC-H 40 Litronic. The crane had to be positioned with centimetre precision to a pre-defined location and was finally mounted through a shaft on a specially made cross frame foundation in the basement of the building. The heaviest crane element weighed 22 t and had to be assembled at a height of 66 m above the ground. With a radius of 80 m, the crane can hoist up to 4 t of weight.
CONTACT: Arno Enzi/Marcel Klee, Service Companies, Central Division BMTI 01
Crane at the Hundertwasser construction site in Vienna 30 www.strabag.com inform 24 STRABAG Units
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATIVES EMPLOYEE COUNSELLING AS A FULL-TIME JOB 120 full-time employee representatives offer employees helpful tips and advice.
Many of our co-workers build, some calculate, drill, plan CONTACT: Gerhard Springer/Wolfgang Kreis, STRABAG SE Works Council or measure. But at the STRABAG Group, we also have employees who are there exclusively for you: our full-time CONTACT: Armin Ebner, Service Companies, Central Division BRVZ 02 employee representatives.
Austria/Germany. STRABAG has more than 120 elected employee representatives in Germany and Austria, helping the nearly 35,000 employees with questions regarding their pension, holiday pay, or wage and contract matters. They handle the admin- istrative work for the group’s social fund and the employee-financed accident insurance, and represent you in group task forces on matters such as continuing education, healthcare management or safety clothing. They also oversee the ordering and distribution of work clothing. And when the “mobile health care truck” pulls up for the next medical check-up, you can be sure that your full-time counsellors had something to do with it.
FULL-TIME FOR ALL
Independent research has shown that strong employee repre- sentation through social partnership has a positive influence on the working climate and employee motivation, making it a good invest- ment for the company. “A good working climate is in the interest of the STRABAG Group. This is why we spend more than nine million euros a year on our full-time employee representatives,” says Armin Ebner, Director of the Central Division Human Resources of the STRABAG Group.
Currently there is one full-time employee representative for every 540 workers in Austria, around 360 in Germany (without STRABAG PFS) and around 160 at STRABAG PFS in Germany.
You, too, can take advantage of the counselling offered by our full-time employee representatives. Or, in today’s Internet jargon: accept the friend request.
More information is available in the STRAnet at Konzern > Personal > Arbeitnehmervertretung. Health check in the “mobile health care truck” 31 North + West inform 24
SUCCESSFUL TEAMCONCEPT IN HAMBURG work could begin, for example regarding budget considerations and the general project conditions. STRABAG Real Estate was responsi- ble for all planning and preparation during phase 1. Züblin handled THE TOWERS ARE DANCING the task of defining each partner’s performance components. The coordination of the project planning engineers was carried out by the planning coordinators at Züblin. Following the motto of “design-to- The Reeperbahn in Hamburg, one of the city’s most cost”, the team managed to keep the cost within target. important sights, is home to a new attraction. A pair of “dancing towers” now graces the address Reeperbahn 1. PHASE 2: REALISE
Following contract signing, just before the start of construction, Germany. The project development company STRABAG Real there was a “role reversal” between STRABAG Real Estate and Estate GmbH realised the award-winning competition design Züblin. From the point of contract award, general contractor Züblin “Dancing Towers” on the approx. 5,400 m² plot of land in St. Pauli. assumed overall responsibility for the project. “We agreed on a lump Construction was carried out by Züblin, Sub-Division North, under sum contract for this project. Cost-plus-fee budgets were chosen the “teamconcept” partnering model. The special aspects of the for the tenant fit-out services of non-leased areas,” explains Mat- cooperation within the group are united in the “inteamconcept”. thias Pirschel of STRABAG Real Estate.
TANGO IN ST. PAULI Contract value: approx. € 103.9 million Construction time: 10.2009 – 08.2012 The two tilting towers with 22 and 24 floors, plus another eight- Floor space of basement levels: 20,000 m² storey building housing a 4-star hotel, were built on top of four base- Floor space of towers: 32,700 m² ment floors. The “tango-dancing couple”, completed in the summer of 2012, was a technically highly complex project. The individual elements within the double-skin façade tilt towards each other in A joint kick-off workshop was held before the project start – the different ways, with the inner skin twisting toward the outer skins. workshop was attended by the highest management levels of the partner companies – to establish the common project objectives, discuss the form of cooperation and determine the rules of the SEVERAL TEAMS, ONE CONCEPT = TEAMCONCEPT working relationship between client and contractor. “This was of crucial importance for the further course of the project,” remembers Züblin carried out the project under the teamconcept partnering Olaf Demuth, technical sub-division manager, Sub-Division North. model. Especially during complex construction projects, this concept helps to minimise risk over the entire process. Of course, these measures cannot entirely eliminate possible conflict potential, but the close cooperation, for example through PHASE 1: CLARIFY joint construction offices and joint planning sessions, made it possible to recognise – and solve – conflicts more quickly. Contract phase 1 focused on addressing the partnership aspect of the project. Some basics had to be clarified before the partnership
The glass façade characterises this modern building. 32 www.strabag.com inform 24 North + West
SUCCESS FOR ALL
During construction of the Dancing Towers, the operating unit was able to include the group’s engineering specialists from Zentrale Technik at an early point in order to develop the structural, façade and MEP planning. In this way, the project could benefit from the full know-how within the group – from design planning to building main- tenance, from process planning to structural stability, from construc- tion scheduling to cost security. The project team from STRABAG Real Estate and Züblin were faced with the challenge of handling construction site logistics in a busy city district, coupled with the demands of an ambitious construction schedule. “This form of cooperation within the teamconcept results overall in more moments of success. And suddenly, building is even more fun,” Olaf Demuth says, summarising the benefits of the teamconcept.
CONTACT: Olaf Demuth, St. Pauli is one of the most spectac- North + West, Group Division Building Construction & Civil ular neighbourhoods in Hamburg. Engineering Germany/BNL 2F, Sub-Division North (DO)
The two towers are kinked at dif- ferent heights. South + East inform 24
NEW THERAPY CENTRE IN CRACOW HIGH-TECH CANCER TREATMENT
The proton therapy centre being built in Cracow, to be completed by the end of 2013, will meet the latest tech- nical and medical standards. The new medical centre will make it possible to carry out proton radiation treat- ment for cancer in Poland for the first time.
Delivery of the 240 t cyclotron
Poland. Radiation therapy is becoming an increasingly impor- The cyclotron creates a proton beam that is transported to the tant form of treating cancer. The usual treatments have so far treatment area via the gantries. Gantries are rotating structures with involved gamma and electron radiation. But proton radiation therapy magnets which make it possible to irradiate the patient in a 360° is gaining in importance around the world. The precision of proton radius. The gantry moves around the patient, allowing the beam to therapy makes it possible to treat tumours even when they lie near be aimed at the patient from all possible angles. The building, called healthy tissue or highly sensitive regions. a bunker, must meet special radiation protection requirements and is shielded with walls and ceilings up to 5.5 m and 4.2 m thick, respectively. Given the proximity of the bunker to the cyclotron THE BUNKER building, and the need for both buildings to be closely connected, fulfilling the necessary safety requirements during construction and The new therapy centre in Cracow consists of a building for the assembly of the gantry system was a difficult challenge. cyclotron (a type of particle accelerator) and a laboratory area. An adjoining building will house the scanner assembly known as a gantry as well as medical treatment spaces. The project was com- A HEAVY LOAD missioned by the Institute for Nuclear Physics at the Polish Academy of Sciences. Construction is being carried out by the HH unit of the Special consideration had to be given to the weight of the Polish PP sub-division. cyclotron: the 240 t particle accelerator not only had to be installed, it also had to be delivered. The assembly of the cyclotron began in the middle of May 2012. Built in Belgium, the cyclotron had to be transported to Cracow overland on two special platforms with 120 wheels. It was installed at the institute using Poland’s largest truck crane.
“This project helps us to prove our competence in the medical construction sector in Poland,” says Alfred Watzl, technical sub- division manager.
Contract value: approx. € 14.8 million Construction time of cyclotron: 09.2010 – 11.2012 Construction time of gantry: 11.2011 – 05.2014
CONTACT: Janusz Siekierka, South + East, Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering Europe 3H, Sub-Division Poland (PP)
Enormous concentration was required during the cyclotron’s assembly. 34 www.strabag.com inform 24 South + East
TIMBER CONSTRUCTION IN SWITZERLAND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BUILDING
It is the world’s first large CO2-neutral construction site. The Umwelt Arena in Switzerland has been setting environmental standards – not just during the building’s operation, but also already during the construction phase. The arena offers 10,000 m² of space for exhibitions and events related to matters of sustainability. The construction of the competence centre required enormous precision.
Switzerland. Environmental protection and the sustainable construction of the roof was an enormous challenge. Various struc- use of resources were given top priority during construction of the tural alternatives had to considered and tested using state-of-the-art Umwelt Arena (“Environment Arena”) in the Swiss canton of Aargau. software before settling on the current variant. The use of prefabri- cated wood elements made it possible not only to finish the roof quickly, but also to ensure the structural precision necessary for this IN DECEMBER THERE ARE NO TOMATOES type of roof. The roof consists of a glued laminated timber frame, adapted to the geometry of the roof and supported by wooden The Competence Centre for Ecology handles all questions of beams. The frame is covered by a system of beams and wood ele- environmental sustainability, from the replenishment rate of forest ments to form the substructure for the photovoltaic cells, the largest resources in Switzerland, to sustainable products such as clothing, building-mounted PV system in Switzerland. to research with energy-efficient vehicles. The centre not only serves local, seasonal food in its restaurant, but also explains the philoso- phy behind it in a way that is understandable and makes sense. GIANT 3D ROOF
The arena stands out for its uniquely angled roof. While the WORLD PREMIERE IN CONSTRUCTION building itself is made of concrete, the roof is completely built of wood. The roof has a surface area of 5,500 m², as much as five The Umwelt Arena already sent an environmental message football fields, and is comprised of 33 individual surfaces at varying during the construction phase, having been built with a minimum degrees of inclination. energy requirement. Solar panels were installed on the top of the construction trailers to generate electricity for the construction site CONTACT: Paul Huber, South + East, Group Division Building and equipment. A world premiere was the wind turbine mounted on Construction & Civil Engineering Austria/Switzerland 3B, the construction crane to generate a part of the electricity for the Sub-Division Zurich & Switzerland West (MV) crane’s operation.
Contract value: CHF 1.98 million/approx. € 1.64 million Construction time: 01.2011 – 09.2011 Roof surface: 5,560 m²
Of course, reducing CO2 emissions was a consideration not only during construction; above all, the building should be CO2- neutral during its operation. With intelligent facilities engineering, the building is to be kept warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The striking roof features a rooftop photovoltaic system that makes it look like a shiny black diamond. Accordingly, the planning and Construction of the angled roof 35 South + East inform 24
BUILDING BRIDGES IN ROMANIA BRIDGING EUROPE
STRABAG is building the new motorway between Deva and Orăștie in Romania: 33.5 km in length, with a total of 21 bridges. The centrepiece of the project is the bridge over the river Mureș, being built using methods of construction that are a first for Romania.
Romania. The contract with the Romanian Transport Ministry was signed and a consortium led by STRABAG AG (Transportation Infrastructures Sub-Division Romania/Bulgaria ME) was formed in November 2010. With a total length of 720 m, divided into 12 spans of 60 m each, the bridge over the Mureș, being built by the Civil Engineering Sub-Division MT as internal subcontractor, is the most notable structure of the entire project. The bridge is being planned and built as a steel composite bridge with a combined roadway deck composed of precast reinforced concrete sections with some in-situ additions. Completion is scheduled for spring of 2013.
The difficult international environment, the construction time of 24 months, and the production of the 4,200 t steel superstructure combined to make the work an enormous challenge for the project team. “Red tape, administrative inertia, relatively vague planning instructions and unfamiliar mentalities have taught us discipline, patience, calm and flexibility to a great degree, but also the need for insistence and control,” says project manager Karl-Heinz Stelzer of the Civil Engineering Sub-Division MT, describing his work in Romania.
NEW PLANNING
The original client design foresaw the superstructure as a com- double composite action and the connection with the bridge bear- posite with prefabricated components that were to be prestressed ings. after being placed in position on top of the superstructure. This design did not correspond to the standards of a modern, long-last- ing construction, however, and the plans were completely revised DANGER FROM BELOW following contract award. Each of the two superstructures consists of two airtight box girders measuring 2.45 m in height and 1.70 m In order to withstand the calculated earthquake loading, it was wide. decided to build three axes not with bridge bearings, but to connect the steel superstructure to the substructure using double composite action to form a monolithic structure. This made it possible to main- POSITIONING tain a uniform pier cross-section across the entire bridge and resulted in reduced expansion at the abutments. It also led to a high The assembly of the box girders was carried out with mobile reinforcement ratio of up to 400 kg of steel per cubic metre of con- cranes, starting from the fixed piers in both directions on auxiliary crete in the area of the double composite site and required exact supports. As soon as the beams were welded together, the super- planning of the assembly sequence. structure was lowered into place by means of presses. This was fol- lowed by the concreting of the pier heads to the fixed piers with
36 www.strabag.com inform 24 South + East
Contract value: approx. € 31 million Construction time: 24 months Bridge width: 2 x 14.50 m Construction steel: 4,200 t Reinforcement steel: 5,400 t
The bridge over the Mureș will be completed in 2013.
RESPECT
“Respect and tolerance are just as important in Romania when dealing with others,” Karl-Heinz Stelzer says, summing up his impressions. Misunderstandings due to linguistic and cultural barriers are no rare occurrence and one cannot ask enough questions. Precise assembly of the bridge elements
Despite the difficult environment and the tight scheduling, the project shows that, with proper planning and professional preparation, new methods can be a success. The MT sub-division is responsible for seven other bridges as part of this project, all of which will be handed over to the client on time.
CONTACT: Karl-Heinz Stelzer/Norbert Luft, South + East, Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering Europe 3H, Sub-Division Civil Engineering SEE/ Direct Expert (MT)
37 South + East inform 24
BRIDGE OVERHAUL IN HUNGARY STEP FOR STEP
The renovation and modernisation works were carried out in 140 YEARS two phases. The maintenance of public transport services in one direction meant it was only possible to work on one half of the MARGARET BRIDGE bridge at a time. This presented the team with a special technical challenge. Having to work under traffic made the work even more difficult. STRABAG not only builds bridges that live up to 21st century The level of the reinforced concrete structure and the gradient standards, but also renovates existing structures. An of the new roadway required extreme expert precision. The section especially historic bridge is Margaret Bridge spanning the of the bridge over the river had to be joined to the new steel struc- ture through composite action, as its height deviated from that of the Danube in Budapest, which recently underwent extensive earlier bridge construction. The new railing built on the land piers renovations. were joined to the reinforced concrete construction, and its inner core was anchored in the substructure.
LIGHTS ON Hungary. Hungarians are proud of it; every visitor to the city knows it: the talk is of Margaret Bridge in Budapest, completed in The bridge also received a new set of lights, “which is a new 1876. Following renovations in 1948 and 1978, the state of the attraction for us Budapesters,” reports László Légrádi proudly. “Now bridge had again worsened by the turn of the millennium. A consor- the bridge’s silhouette is especially impressive at night.” It is a tium led by STRABAG began the full-scale overhaul in August 2009. popular sight with locals and tourists alike.
The festive “barrel rolling”, a tradition to mark the completion of Thanks to the team’s precise work, the job could be finished a bridge, took place in November 2010, although full renovations on schedule. Budapest can now boast an attractive, perfectly ren- were not finished until November 2011. The goal was to restore the ovated Margaret Bridge that fulfils the expectations of the 21st century. bridge to its original state based on the available documentation. Following the patterns and designs of the 19th century, several details CONTACT: László Légrádi, South + East, were reworked, such as the truss, the piers, the stone ornaments Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering and the cladding. Hungary 3I, Sub-Division Civil Engineering Hungary (JC)
Contract value: HUF 20.8 billion/approx. € 7 million Construction time: 08.2009 – 11.2011
The unique atmosphere from the illumination on the renovated Margaret Bridge in Budapest 38 www.strabag.com inform 24 South + East
AVALANCHE DEFENCE IN AUSTRIA ALPINE AVALANCHE CONTROL
Due to the effects of climate change, and in response to higher safety requirements, avalanche defence structures are becoming increasingly important in ski resort areas. The Rock Engineering department is the STRABAG Group’s specialist for construction work in alpine and rough terrain. Steel snow bridges were built on Goldeck, the local mountain for the city of Spittal/Drau, to protect the new gondola lift from possible avalanches.
Austria. Substantial investment has been put into the facelift more than 100 kg a piece during all types of weather, including and expansion of the Goldeck ski area in Carinthia over the past winter conditions in October, was extremely demanding on the team year. For the rock engineering specialists of STRABAG Felstechnik, during the short construction time. Only well-trained workers unafraid that meant building steel snow bridges to protect the new continu- of heights can do the job in such a difficult high-alpine terrain. The ous loop gondola from avalanches. rock engineering department is headed by builder Martin Granig, who has a great amount of experience in this field. He and his team are busy all over Austria and southern Germany. STEEP AND INACCESSIBLE
More than 500 m of steel snow bridges were put in place in Net contract value: approx. € 460,000 extremely steep, nearly inaccessible terrain at an elevation of 1700 m. Construction time: 09.2011 – 11.2011 Most of the material could be transported by helicopter, but there was still plenty of manual labour to do. Working with drills weighing CONTACT: Martin Granig, South + East, Group Division Transportation Infrastructures Austria + Adriatic 6C, Sub-Division Carinthia/Styria (AC)
SERVICES:
Avalanche defence structures and snow nets Shotcrete retention Anchoring with cable strand anchors, rod anchors and micro piles Rockfall and hillside retention Fastening and anchoring of mesh/netting in steep terrain and on rock surfaces Rock scaling Removal of loose rock on steep slopes and cliffs A construction site in alpine terrain 39 International + Special Divisions inform 24
BUILDING DAMS AGAINST HIGH WATER ENORMOUS DIMENSIONS
With a length of over five kilometres and a water storage capacity FLOOD PROTECTION of 22 million m³, the Al Amerat dam helps to minimise the risk of floods for the district of Qurum and protects areas set aside for development in Al Amerat. The flood protection dam consists of a Flood protection is an important issue in the Arab world. main dam and four saddle dams, a diversion dam and channel, two floodwater relief facilities and two ground outlets. STRABAG has already completed two flood protection dams with impressive dimensions in the Sultanate of Oman. New dam building projects are in the tendering process waiting for their realisation.
Oman. The Sultanate of Oman is located at the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. Most of its two-and-a-half million inhabitants live in cities. Typical for Oman are date palms, camels and the frank- incense tree. The country is the largest producer of frankincense in the world. The sweet smell of frankincense, which earned the country its fame and fortune, permeates the air in Oman. However, frankincense has no religious significance here. The completed Al Amerat dam in Oman
LONG NIGHTS OF WORK
The climate in Al Amerat made for some difficult working con- ditions, with temperatures above 40°C for months. “It was only pos- sible to cement at night; you could burn your hands on the rebar during the day,” explains Reinhard Schmid, project manager for the Al Amerat dam. Work was not possible without air conditioning in the excavators or trucks. Making matters worse, the summer heat was followed by unusually heavy winter rainfalls. Observers of a different kind at the Salalah dam project
Al Amerat flood protection dam Contract value: OMR 29 million/approx. € 61 million CONTAINING THE RISK Construction time: 08.2009 – 02.2012 Excavated soil: 440,000 m³ The tropical temperatures in Oman produce an increasing Excavated rock: 1,000,000 m³ number of storms and, as a result, flood disasters. Flood protection is therefore a top priority. STRABAG already completed a dam in Salalah in 2009. Tropical cyclone Gonu had caused extreme flooding A technical challenge was the varied subsoil conditions, ranging in 2007, especially in the capital city of Muscat. The widespread from soft layers of clay to hard calcareous slate. As a result, the devastation led to the decision by the Omani government to realise foundation depths for the dam and for the concrete structures often an extensive flood protection concept. The initiative foresees seven had to be adapted, which also required some extensive changes to dams for the Al Amerat basin and the Wadi Adai gorge. Wadis are the design of the construction. “The fact that we were able to respond ephemeral riverbeds that contain water only after very heavy rainfall. to these challenges flexibly, with technical skill and by mutual agree- ment, impressed the consultants and the client – certainly a good The first dam to be built was the Al Amerat dam. Considered a reference for the new dam construction projects of the coming years,” key element of the flood protection concept, the dam was built by says Reinhard Schmid. STRABAG from 2009 to 2012.
40 www.strabag.com inform 24 International + Special Divisions
The extensive infrastructure works comprise the construction of drinking water and fire fighting water lines, waste water systems, irrigation systems and the electricity and telecommunications infra- structure. Additional works include hillside retention and stabilisa- tion as well as a helicopter landing pad with access road.
Duqm Port road and infrastructure project: Contract value: OMR 81 million /approx. € 170 million Construction time: 10.2011 – 05.2014 Road length: 37 km
CONTACT: Reinhard Schmid, International + Special Divisions, Group Division International (3G)
CONTACT: Stefan Altziebler, International + Special Divisions, Group Division International (3G)
Infrastructure construction measures in Duqm
MILLION-EURO CONTRACT IN DUQM Info + +
STRABAG Oman in September 2011 was awarded the contract Flood protection in the land of frankincense and to upgrade the roads and infrastructure within the Duqm port facility. dates The order is worth € 150 million. Duqm is a tiny fishing village where the wind carries the sand all over the place and the summer months Its topographic location between the coast and a chain of are characterised by constant sandstorms. Then there is the high mountains puts Muscat, the capital of Oman, at risk of flood- humidity: the construction site is situated directly on the Arabian ing from heavy rains. Since 2007, two cyclones have caused Sea. “More than 900 of our people, from Asia, Africa and Europe, enormous damage in the greater Muscat area. work under these inhospitable conditions. They are the true heroes of the Duqm construction site,” says Stefan Altzieber, technical divi- Al Amerat is located in a basin and is separated from Muscat sion manager in Oman. The new port is scheduled for completion by a mountain range up to 1000 m high. The result is an by the end of 2012. The construction of 37 km of road includes a even more extreme climate in Al Amerat than in Muscat. In 12 km six-lane expressway, an 18.5 km four-lane expressway and Al Amerat, however, the new dam will only control around a 6.5 km two-lane road, plus five intersections with traffic lights. 20 % of Wadi Adai’s 65 km² drainage basin. Construction and handover have been agreed to take place in four phases. Completion of the project is scheduled for May 2014.
41 Specials inform 24
e s s a r t s n e t r a g n e s
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THE FAVOURITE PLACES OF STRABAG EMPLOYEES
S i Chilling in the park hi
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a i Li m With its many parks H m ZURICH: MY CITY einrichstras atstr and gardens, Zurich a Jo sse is an attractive place sef s strass e N Zurich may not be the capital, but with some for children and young e ue e
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a
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world, Zurich was also named Europe’s most cosy benches, fire-
places, beach volley- F expensive city in 2012. Locals call their city r a
ball courts, adventure playgrounds for the u
e “Limmatstadt” after the local river or “Zwinglistadt” in kids, and lots more. Here Thisanthi loves nm
ün
to meet her best friends, many of whom s honour of Swiss Reformation leader Huldrych Zwingli. t er she has known since her childhood. T al str s Some 230 of our STRABAG colleagues call Zurich their t a ra s ss s e e cke home, and still more work here. Inform asked five of brü ai Qu
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them to describe their favourite places in the city. lat p
Bürtli
Grüezi in Züri!
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Biking around the lake k
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he t rasse y Z RIHSEE Zurich is a Mecca for all outdoor enthusiasts, with Lake Zurich the heart and soul of the eriv st M ch a e b s recreational scene. Thomas Hoffmann loves the variety – he enjoys going running, cycling or rn tr o H a
s inline skating and often tries out new sports. The native of
s
e
Zurich prefers to spend his free time in the outdoors. One of
his favourite tours is a trip – or two – around the lake with
Zürichhorn his racing bicycle, a total of 67 km. And when he’s finished,
what could be finer than a refreshing dip in the lake.
“I know the Josefwiese quite
well, having lived just around
the corner. I even learned how
to walk here.”
Thisanthi Thilaganthan
Special tip + +
Recycle or else!
Everywhere in Zurich you’ll find waste containers with a waste separation system. Take care to recycle properly – “The lakeside promenade is a popular meeting otherwise you could receive a fine! place in Zurich – for breakfast in the morning, a midday snack or a cocktail in the evening.” Oliver Schwarz
42 www.strabag.com inform 24 Specials
e s s a r t s n e t r a g n e s
Ro
S i hi After work
qu
a i Li m H m After work, Peter Fringeli, a native of Bern, enjoys going out einrichstras atstr for a drink with his colleagues. The evening often takes them a Jo sse sef s to the Old Fashion Bar. Located in the centre of Zurich, strass e N e just a stone’s throw from the famous Bahnhofsstraße, it is ue e
H
a
r d the oldest bar in the city, dating back to 1876. The bar has ke c rü undergone a facelift in db ar recent years, but it still H manages to maintain its
cosy, old-fashioned look.
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nm
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lat p
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he t rasse y Z RIHSEE eriv st Zurich is surrounded by water. Oliver M ch a e b s rn Schwarz of Austria, who has lived and tr o H a
s worked in Zurich for around 1½ years,
s
e
spends most of his free time at Lake Zurich.
He takes advantage of all the different
Zürichhorn
options the lake has to offer: strolling along
the lakeside promenade, going on a boat
ride, visiting one of the many “badis” or
Fresh fish
enjoying the good food.
International cuisine is everywhere in
Zurich, with Italian restaurants especially
plentiful. Although Andrea Jegen grew up
in Zurich, she now lives somewhat outside
of the city – but she still loves to come back to the city to spend a leisurely evening by the lake. One of her favourite restaurants is the Fischstube. The unique atmosphere directly by the lake makes this one of Andrea’s favourite places. “One of my favourite things to do is to sit on the terrace of the Fischstube and enjoy the sunset with fresh fish.” Andrea Jegen
43 Specials inform 24
STRABAG GOES ON A COMPANY OUTING HOLLAND VS. SPAIN
Even before the “kick-off”, everyone was looking forward to the big event. Dutch enthusiasm was going up against Catalonian joie de vivre.
Austria. STRABAG’s long tradition of company trips – dating back to the 1970s – was continued this year with the Works Council East travelling to Amsterdam, while the Works Council West headed for Barcelona.
WHERE THE TULIPS GROW
Two planes with around 360 of our colleagues on board left for Amsterdam, where the first thing on the agenda was a city tour.
Mention Holland, and most people will think of windmills, cheese, Queen Beatrix and football. And although the country has plenty else to offer, such as outstanding architecture and wonderful beaches, it does live up to all of its clichés. The second day therefore began with a trip to the famous cheese market in Alkmaar and ended with a visit to a windmill village.
44 www.strabag.com inform 24 Specials
On the third day, the group visited the porcelain factory in Delft before being treated to a delicious lunch in Scheveningen in an even more gorgeous setting, surpassed only by the wonderful view of the beach. On the last day of the trip, the Port of Rotterdam impressed the group with its sheer dimensions.
VIVA ESPAÑA
Off to the sunny south is where 300 employees were headed at the end of June with the Works Council West. The destination? Barcelona! The hotel, just a few minutes from the beach and from the Rambla, Barcelona’s famous promenade, offered a convincing combination of fantastic architecture, gorgeous rooms and a 10th floor terrace with pool and pool-side bar. Over the next few days, several colleagues found it difficult to part with the view from the 10th floor. For others, the pool was a welcome refreshment to swim a couple of laps after the day’s excursions.
Barcelona had plenty of culture to offer. A panorama tour at the beginning gave the group an overview of the city. Destinations on the second day included Park Güell and many other historic build- ings by Antoni Gaudí, such as the famous, unfinished Sagrada “Besides the good camaraderie, the interesting explanations Familia. On the third day, the group had the opportunity to visit the from our Dutch tour guide were worth the trip to Amsterdam. Now Benedictine abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat. A highlight for I know that orange is not Queen Beatrix’s favourite colour.” football fans on the last day was Camp Nou, the stadium of FC Angelika Schett-Berka, Corporate Communications Barcelona, where football greats such as Messi, Fàbregas or Xavi regularly show off their skill.
Our thanks go to the hard-working employee representatives who organised these fantastic events. We can’t wait to find out the next destinations. Perhaps it will be England vs. Italy?
45 Events inform 24
SPORTS EVENTS READY... SET...
The JP Morgan Corporate Challenge took place on 14 June in THE OLYMPIC GAMES AT Frankfurt, where it celebrated its 20th anniversary. Nearly 70,000 runners from 2,761 companies lined up for a good cause in an STRABAG impressive demonstration of team spirit.
STRABAG PFS sent 35 runners into the race, with another 33 2012 was the year of the Olympics in London. But STRABAG coming from Züblin, STRABAG and Heilit Wörner. Before the race, STRABAG PFS managing director Martin Schenk welcomed fans also bore witness to some Olympian feats this summer. and runners in the garden of the STRABAG PFS headquarters and Swimming, cycling, running, football – in Austria and in wished his colleagues lots of fun and good luck. Germany, STRABAG’s athletes were reaching for gold.
Austria/Germany. Everything went quickly in June, with one event following the other. But whatever the discipline, the partici- pants were all living out the same Olympic motto: “Being there is everything!”
KICK-OFF
As this year’s Züblin football tournament was organised by A fantastic mood among the runners of the JP Morgan Challenge the Munich division, the games were held in the Bavarian capital on 1 and 2 June. In all, 28 company teams took part in the title Team spirit is important during the JP Morgan Run. Four competition. runners form a team and receive a combined score. The winning men’s team came in 19th overall out of 4,264 men’s teams, while the top women’s team landed in 148th place among 4,626 women’s teams.
Runners and fans met again in the STRABAG PFS garden after the race for a relaxing post-run party. The cosy atmosphere around the grill buffet was a good opportunity to get to know colleagues from other units.
GO!
The winning team of the Züblin football trophy The 7th STRABAG fun triathlon took place in Vienna on 15 June. Alone or as a relay, 242 athletes from twelve nations set out in the The deserving tournament winner and recipient of the 2012 three disciplines of swimming, cycling and running to cover the dis- Züblin football trophy was the team from Structural Work & Civil tances of 750 m, 22 km and 5 km, respectively. The contestants Engineering Frankfurt, who beat the Sachsen 1 team from Dresden were motivated and cheered on by the spectators and fans, who lent 1:0. The trophy ceremony was celebrated with musical accompani- their heroes vociferous support. There even was a group of drum- ment in the historic Löwenbräukeller in Munich. mers on hand to rhythmically carry the runners over the finish line. With few exceptions, all of the participants made it to the end – The Züblin football tournament can look back on a nearly ten- some more visibly exhausted than others. year history, having been played with lots of motivation, organisation and dedication since 2003. To date, the trophy has been contested The athletes were especially proud to receive the finisher medal, in eight cities in Germany. Next year’s tournament will be organised once again skilfully and lovingly made by the children from the by the Mitte sub-division in Frankfurt. The tenth anniversary tourna- Concordia charity in Romania. The medals remain a keepsake of ment will be held in 2014 – where, that remains to be seen. a friendly competition among colleagues.
46 www.strabag.com inform 24 Specials
SEEKING THE PUZZLE KING 4 A 6 14 25 12 20 20 23 SUDOKU 6 9 12 24 20 19 16 20 How to play: 7 3 Fill in the empty squares so that the digits 1-9 appear B 2 7 6 9 just once in each row, column and 3x3 sub-grid. The 24 18 22 20 25 20 numbers in the small circles show the sum of the 24 26 21 24 25 16 numbers in the four adjoining fields. 7 1 5 6 C Last date for entries: 15 February 2013 5 6 25 17 21 17 16 19 All entrants will again participate in a raffle for three 4 1 STRABAG watches. 27 17 22 17 17 21 6 8
Mystery numbers:
A B C
Send the 3 mystery numbers or the entire solution to the puzzle to: [email protected]
22 km cycling
SE management board member Siegfried Wanker (right) preparing to pass.
750 m swimming 5 km running CONTACT: Ralf Capune, North + East, Group Division Building Construction & Civil Engineering Germany/BNL 2F, Sub-Division Bavaria Systems Building (DN)
CONTACT: Gabriele Renard, Special Divisions and Concessions, Group Division Services 4S, Sub-Division Facility Manage- ment (MQ)
CONTACT: Mario Rabitsch, Service Companies, Central Division Central Technical Department, Central Technical Department Vienna STRAtria initiator Mario Rabitsch (right) crosses the finish line. 47 www.strabag.com
LEGAL INFORMATION Editing and publishing: STRABAG SE, Villach Editors: Bettina Mattes (editor-in-chief), Carmen Ferner, Angelika Schett-Berka Organisation of national editions: Edita Novotna (Czech Republic /Slovakia), Evelyn Agocs (Hungary), Bozena Czekajska (Poland), Wiktoriya Chimakadze (Russia) Layout and print management: Gundula Schmid Prepress: finishingmove Printing: MACK GmbH, Schönaich Photography: Gerhard Grafl (cover photo, pp. 14–15), BEn/Raiffeisenzeitung (p. 6), Raiffeisen Property International GmbH (p. 7), Royalize (pp. 8, 40–41, 42–43, 44–45), Max Moser (p. 9), Betonwerkstatt www.betonwerkstatt.com (p. 17), Fotolia (pp. 5, 12–13, 17–20, 22–27), Istockphoto (p. 26), MHM/Beyer (p. 28), Tim Hoischen (p. 32–33) Inquiries and mail: STRABAG SE, attn. Bettina Mattes, Tel. +43 1 22422 - 1100, Fax +43 1 22422 - 1177, [email protected], Donau-City-Str. 9, 1220 Vienna/Austria
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