EFNARC Focus Groups
Collaborative Excellence Through Focus Groups
At EFNARC, we believe in the power of collaboration. Our focus groups are dynamic platforms where industry experts and stakeholders come together to shape the future of sprayed concrete. These groups address critical aspects of our field, from technology advancements to safety standards. Discover the dedicated efforts of each focus group as they drive innovation and excellence within the sprayed concrete industry.
Purpose
Our primary mission is to facilitate and enhance the Nozzle Operator Certification scheme, which stands at the core of EFNARC's initiatives.
Working Group Members
Tomislav Rogan (Edvirt), Group leader, Admin
Magnus Bergqvist (Edvirt), Certificate Admin
Benedikt Lindlar (Sika), Examiner course instructor, overseeing training material
Alberto Rey (Sika), Examiner course instructor, overseeing training material
Nick Chittenden (MBCC/Sika), overseeing training material
Roland Mayr (Master Builders Solutions), overseeing training material
Ritchard Hood (Normet), overseeing training material
Focus Group 1: Nozzleman Operator Certification Scheme
Purpose
Our goal is to foster dynamic communication within the global shotcrete community while actively monitoring and discussing emerging training needs and market trends. By doing so, we aim to increase awareness about the critical role of nozzle operator training in enhancing safety, productivity, and sustainability within underground construction.
Working Group Members
Michael Kompatscher (Hagerbach Test Gallery), Group leader
Magnus Bergqvist (Edvirt)
Christine Krauss (Blackdog Consulting)
Focus Group 2: EFNARC Communication
Purpose
This working group is dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of fiber-reinforced sprayed concrete (FRSC). It focuses on elucidating FRSC mechanisms, detailing fiber types and testing methods, enhancing specifications, and improving quality control to ensure optimal performance in various construction applications.
Working Group Members
Benoit de Rivaz (Bekaert), Chairman
Michael Kompatscher (Hagerbach Test Gallery)
Carsten Rieger (SIKA)
Jürgen Bokern (Master Builders Solutions)
Focus Group 4: Fibres For Concrete
Purpose
The working group is dedicated to advancing the testing methodologies and standards for fire protection systems in tunnel construction, with the aim of establishing widely recognized Technical Testing Standards that can be certified by accredited laboratories.
Working Group Members
Michael Kompatscher (Hagerbach Test Gallery)
Maurice Guerrieri (Victoria University, Australia)
Focus Group 5: Testing Fire Protection Systems for Tunnels
Purpose
Established in 2023, this working group of SCL experts endeavours to provide guidelines and training on monitoring the sprayed concrete lining process for rebound and wastage. The first guideline is focused on the methods of measuring sprayed concrete rebound.
Working Group Members
Ritchard Hood (Normet, UK)
Ross Dimmock - Normet
Rolf Dubach – Marti Tunnel
Sebastien Jehle – Sika
Alberto Rey – Sika
Benedikt lindlar – Sika
E. Dalnegro – Mapei
Nick Chittenden – MBCC
Roland Mayr - MBCC
Focus Group 6: Monitoring
Purpose
The purpose of developing a TBM Pilot certification scheme is to standardize the training process and establish an industry-wide benchmark for TBM operation. This will ensure consistent, high-quality instruction, enhance safety, and promote excellence across tunneling projects.
Working Group Members
Gerhard Wehrmeyer, Herrenknecht
Luciano Podda, Herrenknecht
Matthias Reinhold, Normet
Benoit CHANTEPERDRIX, Bouygues-construction
Maxime RAMOND, Bouygues-construction
Rolf Dubach, Marti
Andreas Scheidegger, Marti
Gabriel Bordeianu, Masterbuilders
Enrico Barbero, Utt Mapei
Sebastian Jehle, SIKA
Christina Buxtorf, Hagerbach Test Gallery
