Record turnout for IDE Midlands Regional Meeting

The Midlands Regional Meeting of the IDE, arranged by Adrian McLean at the superb visitor centre at Caterpillar, Desford on Tuesday evening, resulted in a record turnout for a regional meeting with over 30 delegates present, including two recent Past Presidents in David Ross Turner and John Law (over from his home in Cyprus for a visit).

The evening started with Chris Key of Caterpillar giving us an overview of the history of the company and the range of products before handing over to Richard Carless of Finning who talked us through the new range of Demlone high reach demolition spec models launched by Caterpillar at Bauma. The full range on view at Bauma can be viewed at http://www.khl.com/magazines/demolition-and-recycling-international/detail/item55470/VIDEO-EXCLUSIVE

Following the presentations the delegates enjoyed a buffet provided by Caterpillar and then took the opportunity to view the new range of mini machines and loading shovels on the dedicated demonstration area before returning to the centre for the IDE meeting.

The IDE meeting commenced with Vice President John Woodward giving an overview of IDE up and coming events, the changes to CPD, as agreed at the Council of Management, and a request for technical papers for the IDE library.

Adrian Mclean reminded the delegates that the new range of IDE clothing was on display at the back of the room and that orders could be placed via the IDE website.

Lively discussion followed with questions from the floor about International Membership, Changes to the Waste Regulations, use of untrained labour for soft stripping, how asbestos cement sheet removal impacts on SWMPs and DRI’s, and how the HSE currently audit asbestos contracts in the region.

The meeting closed at 8.15pm with thanks to Caterpillar and Finning for being excellent hosts.