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Unqualified contractors pose critical safety risks

The construction industry faces an escalating safety crisis as unqualified contractors continue to perform specialist work without proper certification or training. The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) have issued a stark warning regarding the dangers of multi-trade firms operating beyond their competencies. Recent investigations have highlighted the severe consequences of such practices, including increased health hazards and fire risks.

Specialist Work Requires Verified Competence

Projects carried out by non-accredited contractors frequently involve complex installations, such as ductwork and thermal insulation. Poorly executed work in these areas can lead to serious structural and environmental issues. One cited case revealed ducting installations with inadequate insulation, causing rapid condensation, mould growth, and subsequent health hazards. The presence of mould can escalate within 24 to 48 hours, spreading spores throughout affected areas, significantly endangering residents’ health and wellbeing.

Nathan Wood, BESA’s London & South East regional chair, emphasised that price pressures often force clients to engage multi-trade contractors, whose lack of specialised knowledge results in substandard installations. “Specifications are frequently value engineered, pushing multi-trade firms to compete on price rather than expertise, creating a high-risk environment,” he stated.

Unqualified contractors pose critical safety risks — Image by Pawel Szymczuk from Pixabay

Implications of Awaab’s Law on Contractor Competence

The forthcoming implementation of Awaab’s Law in October 2025 underlines the importance of verified contractor competence. Named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who tragically died due to prolonged mould exposure, the law imposes strict deadlines on landlords to resolve damp and mould issues. However, without trained and accredited professionals, the legislation risks becoming a procedural formality rather than an effective safeguard for public health.

Fire Hazards from Improper Insulation

Beyond mould and condensation, incorrect installation of flammable materials has emerged as a pressing concern. The use of non-certified Polyisocyanurate (PIR) boards in ductwork, which can possess Euroclass E or F fire ratings, exemplifies the heightened fire risks associated with unqualified work. Chris Ridge, TICA’s technical director, stresses that a competent insulation specialist would avoid such hazardous applications. The failure to verify contractor capabilities often results in these dangerous oversights, endangering both buildings and occupants.

The Need for Rigorous Contractor Vetting

Both BESA and TICA call for stringent verification of contractor qualifications and organisational capabilities before awarding contracts for safety-critical projects. Ensuring that all operatives are properly trained and accredited is essential not only for compliance but for safeguarding residents and building users. Organisations must adopt thorough vetting procedures, evaluating prior project experience, certification credentials, and adherence to industry safety standards.

Moving Towards a Safer Construction Sector

Addressing these risks requires a cultural shift within the construction sector, prioritising safety and expertise over cost-cutting. Multi-trade contractors must operate transparently, with clients rigorously assessing their capacity to execute specialised work safely. Industry associations recommend continuous professional development and mandatory accreditation for all workers performing high-risk installations, fostering a culture of competence and accountability.

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A417 Missing Link scheme clocks up 2,000,000 hours without incident

Since the A417 Missing Link scheme hit the ground in Spring 2023, there have been nearly 2,000,000 hours of work with no RIDDOR reportable incidents – that’s the equivalent of 8,300 days of keeping workers safe on site.

Excellent safety record on the A417 Missing Link scheme

A RIDDOR reportable incident refers to Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Regulations, which must be followed if a serious incident, or specified injury, or fatality occurs, and is a standard measure across construction to monitor safety performance, all of which could mean delays to the scheme’s delivery.

Around 500 people each day are working on the £460 million transformation of the A417, an important route between Gloucester and Swindon that helps connect the Midlands/North to the South of England. It’s an alternative to the M5/M4 route via Bristol.

Since work began, the improvements scheme has also:

poured over 3,050 cubic metres of concrete
moved 1.6 million m3 of earth
laid 18km of drainage pipes
fitted 1,682 tons of reinforced and structural steel
laid 10,000 tons of road surfacing
progressed building six new bridges

Contractor Kier is carrying out the work for National Highways and is aiming to have the project open for traffic in Spring 2027.

Excellent safety record on the A417 Missing Link scheme — Cowley Lane overbridge bridge lift

Celine Acard, Senior Project Manager for National Highways, said: “Safety is always the number one priority for National Highways. We think nobody should be harmed while travelling or working on our roads and do all we can to try to make that happen.

“For our contractors, Kier, to record over two million working hours without a serious incident is a fantastic achievement. We are pleased that the stringent safety measures put in place on site are paying dividends, and I’m confident that it will continue to do so.”

RIDDOR, which stands for the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013, is a UK law that requires employers and those in control of work premises to report certain workplace incidents HSE. This includes work-related deaths, injuries, specified occupational diseases, and dangerous occurrences (near misses).

Gavin Jones, Project Director for Kier, added: “The health and safety of our people and supply chain is our number one priority, so to see this reflected in this project by achieving no RIDDOR reportable incidents since 2023 is something I am extremely proud of.”

Among measures taken by contractor Kier to ensure safety include a robust Occupational Health and Safety Management system, with the procedures strictly enforced on site; numerous industry-leading, innovative and award-winning processes, tools, and equipment have been introduced to ensure the health, safety and well-being of all team members; an open and honest culture, where everyone on the project has a voice meant issues and concerns could be dealt with quickly; and lessons learned for improvement.

The landscape-led A417 scheme is not only creating a vital transport link in the Cotswolds, but also incorporates world-class environmental practices that respect and enhance the surrounding landscape and habitats, including:

four miles of new dual carriageway connecting the existing A417 Brockworth bypass with the existing A417 dual carriageway south of Cowley
a section to the west of the existing Air Balloon roundabout that will follow the existing A417 corridor. However, the section to the south and east of the Air Balloon roundabout will be offline, away from the existing road corridor
a new junction at Shab Hill, providing a link from the A417 to the A436 towards Oxford and into Birdlip
a new junction near Cowley, to replace the existing Cowley Roundabout
the existing A417 between the Air Balloon roundabout and the Cowley Roundabout is being repurposed. We are converting some lengths of this existing road into a route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, while retaining other sections to maintain local access for residents.

The latest information on the scheme is available at National Highways’ A417 Missing Link.

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BSI to Release Revised BS 9991:2024 to Enhance Fire Safety in Residential Buildings

The British Standards Institution (BSI) is set to publish the revised BS 9991:2024, Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings – Code of practice, on 27 November 2024. This significant update addresses key fire safety standards in residential settings, incorporating lessons from recent industry changes and heightened awareness following the Grenfell tragedy.

A building on fire — Photo by Vladimir Shipitsin: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-burning-house-covered-with-flames-11688880/

The new version supersedes the 2015 edition, offering enhanced guidance on fire safety measures and aligning with evolving regulations across the UK. While the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, published in September 2024, did not specifically mandate changes to BS 9991, it reaffirmed the importance of robust, evidence-based standards.

Key Updates in BS 9991:2024

The revised standard introduces critical changes to enhance occupant safety and trust among stakeholders:

Expanded Scope: Now includes recommendations for residential care homes, a significant addition to its coverage.
Evacuation Lifts: Offers updated guidance on the design and implementation of evacuation lifts.
Sprinkler Installation: Adjusts height thresholds for mandatory sprinkler systems.
Single-Stair Buildings: Revises safety considerations for these designs, addressing a recurring concern in high-rise construction.

The updates aim to harmonise fire safety practices across the UK, bridging variations in regional regulations, including England’s Approved Document B, Scotland’s Technical Handbook 2, and Northern Ireland’s Technical Booklet E.

Scott Steedman, Director-General for Standards at BSI, emphasised the importance of this update: “The Grenfell tragedy and subsequent inquiry have brought the issue of building safety into focus for the whole sector and beyond. It is critical that we ensure all standards reflect the latest evidence.”

He highlighted that BS 9991:2024 offers comprehensive guidance on fire safety systems, ensuring effective escape routes and robust measures to protect occupants. The revisions also reflect the collective input from industry experts, regulators, and Fire and Rescue Services, following a thorough public consultation that generated over 1,800 comments.

Building a Safer Future

BS 9991:2024 aims to provide a “consensus-based mid-point” for the UK’s diverse fire safety regulations, fostering trust and compliance across the construction and property sectors. It underscores BSI’s commitment to upholding high safety standards in residential buildings and mitigating risks for both occupants and neighbouring properties.

For further details, BSI has published resources on their Standards Development Portal and is expected to host further discussions on implementing the revised guidance.

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AXA Insurance Mandates Body Cameras for Cladding Safety Contractors

In a significant move towards bolstering safety protocols within the construction industry, AXA Insurance has recently announced a new requirement for cladding safety contractors to wear body cameras during their operations. This proactive step is aimed at ensuring heightened security and transparency in the construction process, particularly concerning the installation and maintenance of cladding systems.

The decision to implement body cameras for cladding safety contractors aligns with AXA’s commitment to prioritizing safety and risk management. The use of this technology is expected to bring several benefits to both contractors and the insurance provider, ultimately creating a safer working environment and minimizing potential risks associated with cladding projects.

One of the primary advantages of employing body cameras is the ability to document and review on-site activities comprehensively. By recording real-time footage, contractors can provide a visual account of their work, offering a valuable resource for analysis in the event of disputes or incidents. This footage may prove crucial in determining the sequence of events leading up to any untoward occurrence, helping to establish accountability and contributing to a more transparent claims process.

Moreover, the presence of body cameras is anticipated to act as a deterrent against unsafe practices or negligence on the part of contractors. Knowing that their actions are being recorded can motivate workers to adhere to safety protocols rigorously, fostering a culture of responsibility and caution. This, in turn, may lead to a reduction in the number of accidents and incidents related to cladding installation and maintenance.

The decision to mandate body cameras for cladding safety contractors is also in line with the broader industry trend towards adopting advanced technologies to enhance safety measures. AXA Insurance recognizes the potential of such innovations to revolutionize risk management and improve overall safety standards. By embracing cutting-edge solutions, the company aims to set a precedent for the construction sector, encouraging other insurance providers and contractors to explore similar measures.

It’s important to note that the implementation of body cameras does raise considerations related to privacy and data protection. AXA has assured that the collected footage will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and will only be used for safety and claims-related purposes. Contractors are expected to be informed about the specifics of data usage and consent before being required to wear body cameras.

Dougie Barnett, AXA Commercial’s Director of Customer Risk Management said: “We decided to use this cutting-edge technology to record evidence of the remediation work and securely store it in the cloud for reference. Our Business Resilience Team has been capturing videos of commercial risks in this way for the past three years for underwriters to review, so it made sense to extend this practice to these building remediations.

“It means underwriters can clearly see what’s been done when they assess risk and provide a quote with confidence, both now and in the future.”

AXA Insurance’s decision to mandate body cameras for cladding safety contractors marks a commendable step towards elevating safety standards in the construction industry. By leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accountability, AXA is not only safeguarding the interests of its clients but also contributing to the overall improvement of safety practices within the sector. This move reflects a forward-thinking approach that may well serve as a model for other insurance providers and construction companies looking to prioritize safety in their operations.

Construction Safety

What are construction bonds and how we can help

Construction bonds are a crucial aspect of the construction industry, providing a guarantee to the owner of the project that the contractor will complete the work as per the agreed-upon terms and conditions. These bonds act as a safeguard against potential financial loss for the owner in case the contractor fails to complete the project or fails to meet the contractual obligations.

Nationwide Sureties is a leading provider of construction bonds, offering a range of bond solutions to contractors, subcontractors, and owners. The company has a wealth of experience in the construction industry, and their bond services are designed to help businesses meet their bonding needs.

There are three types of construction bonds that Nationwide Sureties can help with: bid bonds, performance bonds, and payment bonds.

Bid bonds are used by contractors when submitting a bid for a project. These bonds provide assurance to the owner that the contractor has the financial capability to complete the project if they are awarded the contract.

Performance bonds are used to ensure that the contractor completes the project as per the agreed-upon terms and conditions. If the contractor fails to complete the project or fails to meet the contractual obligations, the owner can claim against the performance bond.

Payment bonds are used to ensure that the contractor pays its subcontractors and suppliers. If the contractor fails to pay its subcontractors or suppliers, they can make a claim against the payment bond.

Nationwide Sureties can provide customized bond solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients. They have a team of experts who can assist with bond applications, underwriting, and claims management.

One of the key advantages of working with Nationwide Sureties is their extensive network of bonding companies. They work with multiple bonding companies, allowing them to provide their clients with competitive rates and a range of options.

Nationwide Sureties also offers a range of other services, including insurance solutions and risk management advice. They understand the challenges that contractors face in the construction industry, and they are committed to helping their clients manage their risks and protect their businesses.

In conclusion, construction bonds are a vital aspect of the construction industry, providing assurance to owners and protecting contractors and subcontractors. Nationwide Sureties is a trusted provider of construction bonds, offering a range of bond solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients. With their experience and expertise, they are well-positioned to help businesses navigate the complexities of the bonding process and protect their interests.

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Materials Offsite Bond

Nationwide Sureties is a UK-based company that provides a variety of surety bonds to businesses and individuals. One of the most popular bonds offered by Nationwide Sureties is the Materials Offsite Bond. In this essay, we will explore what a Materials Offsite Bond is, how it works, and why it is important.

A Materials Offsite Bond is a type of surety bond that is typically used in the construction industry. The purpose of the bond is to ensure that the materials purchased by a contractor for use in a construction project are stored securely offsite and are available for use when needed. The bond provides a guarantee to the client that the contractor will fulfil their contractual obligations and will not use the materials for any other purpose.

The way a Materials Offsite Bond works is relatively straightforward. The contractor purchases the bond from Nationwide Sureties, which acts as the surety. The bond is then presented to the client as proof that the contractor has the financial resources to store the materials securely offsite and to protect them from loss or damage. If the materials are lost or damaged, the bond provides a means for the client to recover their losses.

The importance of a Materials Offsite Bond cannot be overstated. For clients, the bond provides peace of mind that their materials will be stored securely offsite and will be available for use when needed. It gives them assurance that the contractor has the financial resources to cover any losses that may occur, and it serves as a strong incentive for the contractor to fulfil their obligations under the construction contract.

For contractors, the bond can be a valuable tool in winning new business. By purchasing a Materials Offsite Bond, contractors can demonstrate to clients that they are financially stable and responsible, and they can use this as a competitive advantage when bidding for new contracts. The bond also serves as a safeguard against unexpected losses that could cripple a small contractor’s business.

In conclusion, the Materials Offsite Bond offered by Nationwide Sureties is a valuable tool for both clients and contractors in the construction industry. It provides peace of mind to clients that their materials will be stored securely offsite and will be available for use when needed, and it gives contractors the financial stability and competitive advantage they need to succeed in a highly competitive industry. If you are in the construction industry, it is highly recommended that you consider purchasing a Materials Offsite Bond from Nationwide Sureties to protect yourself and your business.

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Construction Materials Safety

Premises Bonds

Nationwide Sureties UK is a leading provider of premises bonds, which are a form of security required by some landlords or property owners to protect their property from damage caused by tenants or contractors. A premises bond is a financial guarantee provided by a third party, such as Nationwide Sureties UK, to ensure that the property owner is protected from any damages or losses incurred during the rental or construction period. Here are some reasons why premises bonds from Nationwide Sureties UK are essential:

1. Protection for property owners: Premises bonds provide protection to property owners who may be vulnerable to damages or losses caused by tenants or contractors. With a premises bond from Nationwide Sureties UK, the property owner can be assured that any damages will be covered, providing peace of mind and financial protection.

2. Compliance with regulations: Some landlords or property owners may be required to obtain a premises bond as part of their compliance with legal or regulatory requirements. Nationwide Sureties UK can provide premises bonds that meet the specific legal requirements and regulations for each situation, ensuring that the property owner is fully compliant.

3. Tenant and contractor trust: The presence of a premises bond can build trust between tenants, contractors, and property owners. Tenants and contractors are more likely to rent or work on a property that has a premises bond in place, as it provides assurance that their interests are protected.

4. Cost-effective security: Premises bonds are a cost-effective way for property owners to protect their assets. Rather than having to provide large cash deposits or rely on expensive insurance policies, a premises bond from Nationwide Sureties UK provides financial security at a fraction of the cost.

5. Flexibility: Nationwide Sureties UK offers a range of premises bond options, allowing property owners to select the level of protection that meets their specific needs. From rental bonds to construction bonds, they can provide a bond that fits your requirements.

In summary, Nationwide Sureties UK provides premises bonds that offer essential financial protection for landlords and property owners. With protection from damages or losses caused by tenants or contractors, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, improved trust between tenants, contractors, and property owners, cost-effective security, and flexibility, premises bonds are an excellent option for protecting your property investment. Whether you are a landlord, property owner, or contractor, Nationwide Sureties UK can provide the premises bond you need to protect your interests and ensure a successful project.

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Surety Bonds

Nationwide Sureties is one of the top surety bond companies that provide construction bonds. Surety bonds are a type of financial guarantee that contractors are required to obtain for construction projects. These bonds are typically required by the owner or developer of a construction project as a form of protection against contractor default.

When looking for a surety bond company, it is important to consider the company’s financial stability and reputation. The best surety bond companies are typically those that have a strong financial rating and a long history of providing bonds for the construction industry.

One of the top surety bond companies in the industry is Nationwide Sureties. With our experienced team and financial stability, we are able to provide a wide range of bonds for the construction industry, including performance bonds, payment bonds, and bid bonds. We also provide a variety of other surety products and services to help contractors and construction companies succeed.

Another top surety bond company is XYZ Sureties, which has been providing surety bonds for over 50 years. They have a strong reputation in the industry and have a wide range of bond options for contractors and construction companies.

When choosing a surety bond company, it is important to also consider the company’s customer service and support. A good surety bond company will have a team of experts who can answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on the bond application process.

In summary, surety bonds are a critical aspect of the construction industry. They provide financial protection for both contractors and the owners/developers of construction projects. Choosing the right surety bond company is important to ensure that you have the right bond in place to protect your construction project. Consider surety bond companies with a strong financial stability, reputation, and customer service. One of the top surety bond companies in the industry is Nationwide Sureties, with our experienced team and financial stability, we are able to provide a wide range of bonds for the construction industry, including performance bonds, payment bonds, and bid bonds. Contact us today to learn more about our surety bond services and how we can help you with your next construction project.

To learn more about Nationwide Sureties click here

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Construction Bonds: What Are They and Why Do You Need Them?

Introduction: Construction projects can be risky ventures, with various factors such as weather, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen events that can disrupt their completion. That’s why construction bonds are essential tools for managing risk and ensuring that projects are completed as planned. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into construction bonds, their different types, and why they are crucial for project owners, contractors, and suppliers.

What are Construction Bonds?

Construction bonds are contractual agreements that ensure that parties involved in construction projects fulfil their obligations. They work to protect the interests of the project owner, contractor, and suppliers by providing financial security in case one of the parties fails to fulfil their contractual obligations.

Types of Construction Bonds: There are several types of construction bonds that are used in different stages of a construction project. These include:

Bid Bonds: These are required before a contractor is awarded a contract and serve as a guarantee that the contractor will enter into a contract and provide a performance bond.
Performance Bonds: These guarantee that the contractor will complete the project as per the terms of the contract.
Payment Bonds: These ensure that subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers are paid for their services and materials.
Maintenance Bonds: These guarantee that the contractor will rectify any defects in the project after its completion.

How do Construction Bonds Work?

Construction bonds work by transferring the risk of non-performance or non-payment from the project owner to the surety bond company. The surety bond company guarantees to pay a predetermined amount if the contractor fails to fulfil their obligations. In case of a claim, the surety bond company will investigate the claim and determine whether it is valid. If the claim is valid, the surety bond company will pay the claim, and the contractor will be required to reimburse the surety bond company.

Why are Construction Bonds Important?

Construction bonds are essential for construction projects because they provide financial security and peace of mind to project owners, contractors, and suppliers. They offer protection against non-performance, non-payment, and other risks that may arise during a construction project. Additionally, construction bonds help to ensure that contractors are qualified, experienced, and financially stable to handle the project.

FAQs:

Q: Who pays for construction bonds? A: Typically, the contractor is responsible for paying for construction bonds. However, the cost of the bond may be factored into the bid price.

Q: How much do construction bonds cost? A: The cost of construction bonds varies depending on the size and scope of the project, the contractor’s creditworthiness, and the type of bond required.

Q: Are construction bonds required for all construction projects? A: No, construction bonds are not required for all construction projects. However, they are mandatory for most public construction projects.

Conclusion:

Construction bonds are crucial tools for managing risk in construction projects. They provide financial security and peace of mind to project owners, contractors, and suppliers by ensuring that parties fulfill their contractual obligations. By understanding the different types of construction bonds and how they work, you can make informed decisions when it comes to managing risk in your construction projects.

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Understanding Advanced Payment Bonds and How They Work

Introduction:

For many contractors, managing cash flow can be a significant challenge, especially when working on large construction projects. Clients often demand that contractors provide a form of security to ensure that they can meet their contractual obligations. One of the most popular security options is an advanced payment bond. In this article, we will explain what advanced payment bonds are, how they work, and their benefits.

What are Advanced Payment Bonds?

An advanced payment bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees the return of an advance payment made by a client to a contractor. In construction projects, clients often require contractors to provide an advanced payment before the work begins to help with the upfront costs of the project. The bond ensures that the client will receive a refund if the contractor fails to complete the project or fulfil their contractual obligations.

How do Advanced Payment Bonds Work?

When a contractor agrees to provide an advanced payment bond, they enter into a three-party agreement with the client and a surety company. The client pays the surety company a premium for the bond, and the surety company provides a guarantee that the advance payment will be repaid if the contractor fails to meet their obligations.

If the contractor fails to complete the project, the client can make a claim against the bond to recover their advanced payment. The surety company then investigates the claim and, if valid, pays the client the amount of the advance payment. The contractor is then responsible for repaying the surety company for the amount paid out under the bond.

Who Uses Advanced Payment Bonds?

Advanced payment bonds are commonly used in the construction industry, particularly on large-scale projects. Clients may require contractors to provide a bond as a form of security to protect their investment in the project. Contractors may also choose to provide an advanced payment bond to win a contract or to strengthen their position with a client.

Benefits of Advanced Payment Bonds

There are several benefits to using an advanced payment bond, including:

Increased credibility – Providing a bond can help a contractor demonstrate their financial stability and professionalism to potential clients.
Improved cash flow – An advanced payment bond can help a contractor manage their cash flow by providing the upfront funds necessary to begin work on a project.
Reduced risk – By providing a bond, a contractor can reduce the financial risk to the client, which may make it easier to win contracts.

FAQs

Q: How much does an advanced payment bond cost? A: The cost of an advanced payment bond will vary depending on the size of the advance payment and the contractor’s creditworthiness. The premium is typically a percentage of the advance payment amount.

Q: Are advanced payment bonds mandatory? A: No, advanced payment bonds are not mandatory, but they are commonly required by clients in the construction industry.

Q: Can a contractor get an advanced payment bond with bad credit? A: It may be more challenging for a contractor with bad credit to obtain an advanced payment bond, but it is not impossible. The surety company will assess the contractor’s financial stability and may require additional collateral to secure the bond.

Conclusion

An advanced payment bond is a useful tool for contractors working on large construction projects. It provides a guarantee to the client that their advanced payment will be repaid if the contractor fails to fulfil their obligations. By providing a bond, contractors can increase their credibility, improve their cash flow, and reduce their financial risk. If you are a contractor working in the construction industry, consider the benefits of providing an advanced payment bond for your next project.

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