INSIDE #119 : simplebooklet.com

SummaryEditoDear Colleagues,Welcome to this new edition of INSIDE!2024 has taken a good start and we're pausing to look back on our recent achievements, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead. In this edition, we discuss our ﬁnancial results for 2023, highlighting our resilience and dedication despite challenges, demonstrating the importance of sound ﬁnancial management, through eﬃcient cash preservation (pp. 6-7).We are proud to present several major projects which have shaped our journey over the past months. So many projects reﬂect our professionalism and dedication: from the beginning of works at Oxagon in Saudi Arabia to the progress on the Nachtigal hydroelectric project in Cameroon; from the delivery of the innovative STEAM building for Brisbane Grammar School in Australia to the signiﬁcant Oosterweel project in Belgium and several projects in the expert hands of our specialised and regional entities. None of this success would be possible without the unfailing commitment of our people as demonstrated in the projects showcased on pp. 16 to 31. Our company's projects can also beneﬁt from the production entities featured in this issue, oﬀering a convenient one-stop shop for sourcing materials(pp. 10-11).As we strive for success, we're continuously adapting to changing markets, addressing climate concerns, eﬃciently managing projects, and meeting client needs. This edition dives into the importance of disciplined contract management (p. 32) and highlights how BE SAFE ambassadors make a diﬀerence on-site (pp. 14-15). Our collective commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals is also instrumental to our success (pp. 12-13).Finally, we're celebrating the 15th anniversary of our BESIX Foundation this year. I would like to extend my gratitude to the 20,000 BESIX volunteers whose dedication has made our myriad activities successful over the years.As we conclude this magazine, we look ahead to the remaining three quarters of the year with optimism. While challenges and opportunities await, we face them with determination. Let's continue to uphold our commitment to excellence, innovation, and ownership as we navigate the months ahead.Happy reading!Pierre SironvalCEO BESIX GroupMILESTONES 04STRATEGYForward together: resilience and ambitions for 2024 06The key role of the Secretary General 08One-stop shop in practice 10SUSTAINABILITY & ESGThe UN Sustainable Development Goals 12QHSESafety is also a question of mutual support 14PROJECTS Five years at work for green electricity (Cameroon) 16The Oxagon project: A united frontfor excellence, innovation, and sustainability (Saudi Arabia) 18Brisbane Grammar School STEAM Building reaches completion (Australia) 22The power of ECI contracts 24The Frameries pre-stressing workshop(Belgium) 26A new communal swimming poolin the thermal town of Spa (Belgium) 27Vanhout builds a new children’s psychiatric hospital in Sint-Truiden (Belgium) 28Scaling the heights to modernise VOO’s coax network in Wallonia (Belgium) 29ENGINEERINGBESIX shows versatility and experience in Oosterweel project (Belgium) 30INSIGHTIf it isn’t written down, it doesn’t exist 3215 years of solidarity thanks to BESIX Foundation’s 20,000 volunteers 33OUR PEOPLEBESIX Group’s European Works Council celebrates its 20th anniversary 34NEW CONTRACTS 36NEWSFLASHES 38PERSONALIA 39Published byFlorence BribosiaWriters R. Arnould, F. Bribosia, I. Buysse, H. El Nammari, C. Karels, J. Morrison, O. Petry, S. Van Damme, H. Van Laer Graphic Design & ProductionTiltfactory.com29PROJECTSBESIX Unitec modernises VOO’s coax network in WalloniaPROJECTSFive years at work at the Nachtigal hydroelectric project for green electricity in Cameroone SironvalCEO BESIX GroupBESIX GroupAv. des Communautés 100B-1200 Brussels, BelgiumT +32 (0)2 402 62 11communication@BESIX.comwww.besix.com@BESIXOcial www.linkedin.com/company/BESIX@BESIXOcial@BESIXGroup_ocialSUSTAINABILITY & ESGThe UN Sustainable Development Goals1216The UN Sustainable Development Goals12

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JANFEBMAR APRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECJANFEBMAR APRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECOctoberNovemberJANFEBMAR APRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECJANFEBMAR APRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC23OCT2023BESIX Watpac welcomes Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid to the Barangaroo metro station project in Sydney (Australia).08NOV2023WUST inaugurates the renovated swimming pool in Spa, in the Liège Province, that meets the latest energy standards thanks to its enhanced insulation, along with photovoltaic and solar panels (Belgium).20NOV2023The Zayed City Schools PPP project team celebrates a signiﬁcant milestone of completing 3 million man-hours of work without any lost-time injuries (UAE).23NOV2023The impoundment of the intake canal at the Nachtigal hydroelectric power project is realised, preparing for the supply of the primary water circuit for the ﬁrst turbine testing and electricity generation (Cameroon).02OCT2023The installation of 4 km of sheet piling along the Nordhavn tunnel track starts, creating a secure and watertight construction pit, which will serve as the foundation for the tunnel's construction (Denmark).24NOV2023Vanhout holds a ground-breaking ceremony at the energy-neutral and highly insulated sustainable swimming pool Lago Grasduinen Bredene project (Belgium).25NOV2023The last giant crane is removed on Zayed National Museum (UAE).05OCT2023The New South Wales team of BESIX Watpac moves their regional oce into the magniﬁcent Poly Centre. In November, the stunning 25-storey commercial tower receives the award for Best Commercial Building at the Master Builders Association of NSW State Awards (Australia).06OCT2023A ceremony to lay the ﬁrst stone is held to mark the beginning of partial renovation works of the Omnisport complex in Evere by Jacques Delens (Belgium). 10JAN2024The four new biological tanks at the Mamer water treatment plant built by BESIX Environment are operational, treating some 20,000 m³ of wastewater per day (Grand Duchy of Luxembourg).10JAN2024The tunnel under the Abobo roundabout in Abidjan is ocially inaugurated in the presence of the Prime Minister and several other ocials (Ivory Coast).17JAN2024The Saint-Denis Pleyel team celebrates the D-Day -100 milestone before the crucial safety commission that will approve the opening of the station (France).18JAN2024BESIX Group is awarded the Belgian Top Employer certiﬁcation for an impressive ﬁfth time in a row, with a remarkable 90.92 % overall score.26JAN2024The Dubai Uptown Tower is completed (UAE).30JAN2024BESIX and Dalkia Smart Building successfully deliver the Deloitte University EMEA project in Bailly-Romainvilliers (France).31JAN2024The 'ﬁrst' shovel goes into the ground at the A27 site, south of Utrecht, a project aiming at the renewal and widening of the section of this motorway between Houten and Hooipolder (The Netherlands).09FEB2024The ROCO team launches the start of the construction of the bypass, a temporary motorway that will appear next to the existing R1 between the junctions Antwerp-North and Antwerp-East, within the Oosterweel project (Belgium).12FEB2024Atenor and BESIX Real Estate Development announce the sale of the WellBe project to Portugal's largest bank Caixa Geral de Depósitos (Portugal).22FEB2024After careful preparations, the ﬁrst phase of the Tre Vescovi viaduct launch takes place using a spindle bar system, pulling the bridge segment about 12 metres a day (Italy).27FEB2024A ground-breaking ceremony takes place at the Woodford Youth Detention Centre (Australia).29FEB2024The BERERIX joint venture, involving BESIX, Rizzani de Eccher, and SIA RERE BŪVE, reaches the highest point of the Rail Baltica Riga Central Station after successfully installing the roof’s arch structure (Latvia).29FEB2024BESIX Nederland ocially hands over the keys of Mediavaert, one of the largest hybrid timber buildings in the world, to media company DPG Media in Amsterdam (The Netherlands). 07DEC2023BuildUp CEO Hélène de Troostembergh wins the Young Construction Personality of the Year award and BuildUp itself wins the silver award in the Climate Future Solution category, recognising its osite sustainably produced panels for the energetic renovation of façades and roofs (Belgium).14DEC2023BESIX Group, through BESIX Unitec, successfully completes the acquisition of TFC S.A. and ACB S.A. (TFC Group). The TFC Group is an established player in the utilities market in Wallonia. They now operate under the name of BESIX Reditec and BESIX Soltec (Belgium).15DEC2023The ‘Appel Tunnel’ under the train station in Kortrijk is inaugurated (Belgium).DecemberJanuaryFebruary2023>24MILESTONES C. Karels30NOV2023The 180-tonne pyramidion is hoisted on top of the masthead of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, making this the tallest bridge in Brisbane (Australia). 01DEC2023Belgian Prime Minister De Croo visits BESIX’s Waste-to-Energy facility in Dubai. His visit underlines his belief in the synergy between climate ambitions and the industrial sector (UAE).4 5INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119

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In the fast-paced world of business, it’s essential to pause and reﬂect on past performances and what they tell us about the future. INSIDE sat down with Hans Beerlandt, Chief Financial Oﬃcer to reﬂect on our journey through 2023 and to set our collective sights on what we aim to achieve in 2024. resilience andambitions forHow would you summarise our ﬁnancial performance in 2023?Hans: In 2023, our revenue increased to €3.5 billion, up from €3.3 billion the previous year, showcasing our collective resilience and commitment. Our net proﬁt reached €18.0 million, compared to €40.3 million in the previous year: it's important to see this not as a setback but as evidence ofour agility. This shift partially reﬂects an extraordinary gain in 2022 from the sale of a signiﬁcant asset by BESIX RED, and secondly, it underscores our ability to maintain positive net proﬁts amidst economically turbulent times, exacerbated by inﬂation and price escalation. This outcome, given the context, is one we can view witha sense of appreciation.What about our production volume for the coming years?Hans: Our project order book slightly tapered to €5.1 billion, from €5.2 billion last year, aligning with our strategic project selection and focus on quality over quantity, a decision that has clearly borne fruit, as evidenced by our proﬁt margin increasing from 7.1 % to 8.2 %.This marks a signiﬁcant step towards operational proﬁtability. Looking ahead, what are our ambitions for 2024?Hans: Looking forward to 2024, we're setting ambitious but attainable goals. We aim to generate revenues of €3.4 billion and to elevate our net proﬁt to €61 million. Achieving these targets will require a concerted eort and adherence to disciplined ﬁnancial management practices. Forward together: What is your best advice for sound ﬁnancial management?Hans: To implement our strategy, it is imperative that we manage our cash and working capital eectively. This means being judicious about our expenditures, ensuring we invoice our completed works promptly, and tightening up on collections to keep our cash ﬂow healthy. We must negotiate favourable terms with our suppliers, extending payment terms where possible, and securing advance payments from clients to bolster our ﬁnancial position. In the same way, what are the pitfalls to avoid in order to manage our cash eﬃciently?Hans: We should steer clear of paying our suppliers more quickly than necessary, as doing so can unnecessarily strain our cash reserves. Equally, we must avoid delays in invoicing for our work, as prompt invoicing is key to maintaining a healthy cash ﬂow. Letting client invoices remain unpaid beyond their due terms can also adversely aect our ﬁnancial health, just as making advance payments to suppliers without corresponding advances from the client jeopardises our cash position. These practices, while seemingly small in isolation, can cumulatively have a signiﬁcant impact on our ﬁnancial stability and must be diligently avoided.Preserving our liquidity starts at an early stage, doesn’t it?Hans: Deﬁnitely. At the tender stage, we must aim for positive cash ﬂow right from the outset. This involves scrutinising payment processes early on to ensure they are fair and do not give clients undue advantage over us. Aligning payment conditions between BESIX and our subcontractors to the ones we have with our clients, will also help maintain positive cash ﬂows. In the same spirit, opting for bonds instead of cash for guarantees and retentions is another way to further preserve our liquidity.What is your assessment of the year ahead?Hans: The road ahead, much like the markets we navigate, will have its share of ups and downs. With our collective focus, ﬁnancial discipline, and operational excellence, I am conﬁdent that together, we can reach our objectives. We have to approach the future with both caution and eagerness, ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead while safeguarding the hard-earned gains we've achieved so far.2024we aim to achieve in 2024. asset by BESIX RED, and secondly, it underscores our ability to maintain positive net proﬁts amidst economically turbulent times, exacerbated by inﬂation and price escalation. This outcome, given the context, is one we can view witha sense of appreciation.STRATEGYF. Bribosia• In 2023, BESIX Group reached a turnover of €3.5 billion, one of the highest of the last 20 years. This conﬁrms some recovery after the last couple of years, marked in particular by inﬂation and supply chain disruptions. • The group closed the year 2023 with a substantial order book of €5.1 billion, with increasing margins, and with a healthy geographical spread including Europe (62 %), Australia (14 %), the Middle East (13 %), and the rest of the world, mainly Africa (11 %). The group’s balance sheet is healthy, with a solvency ratio of 22.6 %, above the industry average. • The group net result, after exceptional write-oﬀs and goodwill depreciation, amounts to €18.0 million, compared to €40.3 million in 2022.6 7INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119

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Can you summarise your role for our readers?Patrick: Traditionally, a Secretary General oversees legal aairs and acts as secretary to the Board of Directors. As a corollary, he guarantees the rigorous compliance of operations with the regulations in force, particularly in the areas of anti-corruption and respect for privacy. He is also responsible for ensuring clear, rigorous governance that enables the Group to achieve the objectives it has set itself. Finally, you could say that I’m also one of the transmission belts between the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, ensuring ﬂuid and eective communication between these two crucial bodies! That's what I do, in a nutshell.What added value do you bring to operations?Patrick: My helicopter role allows me to step back from the day-to-day operational constraints. This distance allows me to see the big picture and act as a sounding board for my colleagues on the Executive Committee and the teams, contributing, I hope, to informed and strategic decision-making and eective execution.What is your short-term goal?Patrick: In the short term, I have set myself the goal of maximising the eciency of our activities by revisiting the framework - the famous Group Rules - within which we operate. The aim is to support our business by making it more agile and responsive.And for the long term?Patrick: In the long term, I'm going to concentrate on adapting our Group to changes in the sector and to the new regulatory constraints that will inﬂuence our long-term continuity.With the emergence of diverse, dense, and complex regulations on sustainability, due diligence, and ethics, our sector, and the way we do business in it, are bound to evolve. Compliance with these standards, particularly with regard to human rights and environmental protection in our subcontracting chain, is a legal imperative as it represents our 'licence to operate'. Failure to comply with these standards could deny us access to certain markets or ﬁnancing, which is unthinkable. Impeccable compliance with these standards also represents an opportunity to strengthen our credibility as a good employer and to attract and retain talent.Your role also leads you to look at governance, doesn't it?Patrick: Yes, governance is also at the heart of my responsibilities. More than an abstract concept, governance concerns the organisation and decision-making within our group. I have a duty to oer and support a governance model that ensures that the right people are in the right places, making the right decisions through the right procedures. In conclusion, I hope to be a facilitator to ensure ﬂuidity and operational eciency, while ensuring that our Group meets the highest standards of compliance and integrity. With a very wide role that is sometimes considered intangible, the Secretary General in a group like ours oversees a range of essential responsibilities. Which ones? For what purpose? INSIDE sat down with Patrick Baeten, who has held the position for seven months and whose role as Secretary General in the BESIX Group Executive Committee is crucial to the growth and continuity of our company. in the development and compliance of our GroupThe key role of the Secretary General STRATEGY F. Bribosia5 quick questions• What gives you energy? Nature, wilderness.• Your bedside book? I read a lot. For the moment, “Les yeux ouverts” (“Eyes Open”) by Marguerite Yourcenar.• Your way of working? Do what you say, say what you do.• What attracted you to BESIX? Lots of things, but ﬁrst and foremost the projects it has completed, each more complex than the last.• The values that touch you the most? Kindness, respect, and openness.8 9INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119

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One-stop shopin practiceWhether a project is a collaboration within the BESIX family, involves subcontracting to one of our entities, or relies on materials from a BESIX Group production unit, the one-stop shop concept oﬀers numerous beneﬁts.Consider this: when you need materials for your project, why not reach out to one of BESIX’s production entities if it's feasible logistically and geographically? Not only does it make ﬁnancial sense by keeping spending within the group and avoiding extra margins on products, but it also simpliﬁes project management and saves time. With fewer parties involved, communication is smoother, and your BESIX ‘supplier’ understands your needs and processes.BESIX Group provides a diverse range of materials and services. In this edition, we've compiled a list of entities producing cement, asphalt, aggregates, prefabricated concrete elements, and steel and formwork in Belgium and the Netherlands.STRATEGYC. KarelsCONCRETEASPHALTAGGREGATESPREFABRICATED CONCRETE ELEMENTSBESIX INFRALocations: 1 Bilzen, 2 Burcht (B)—Activity: production of concrete and recycling of construction and demolition wasteUsed for: road constructionContact:Bilzen: Koen Gonnissen - Manager Asphalt, Concrete & Recycling - koen.gonnissen@besix.com+32 (0)497 52 05 53Burcht: Dirk Van Roey - Work leader Concrete & Recycling - dirk.vanroey@besix.com+32 (0)3 253 01 76besixinfra@besix.comwww.besixinfra.comGNB BÉTON (part of SOCOGETRA)Locations: 3Bastogne, 4 Fernelmont,5 Stockem-Arlon (B)—Activity: production of ready-mix concrete and GN-Blocks (massive stackable concrete blocks)Used for: buildings, road construction, civil worksContact: info@gnbbeton.beBastogne: +32 (0)61 21 03 50Fernelmont: +32 (0)81 41 48 44Stockem-Arlon: +32 (0)63 24 52 09www.gnbbeton.beBELASCO(part of BESIX INFRA)Locations: 1Bilzen, 6 Ghent, 7 Puurs (B)—Activity: production of asphaltUsed for: road constructionContact: oerte@belasco.bewww.belasco.beSOCOGETRA QUARRIESBISSOT QUARRYLocation: 11Pin - Izel (B)—Activity: production of limestone and sandstoneUsed for: road construction, concreteContact: Grégory Allard - Commercial Manager - g.allard@limites.be - +32 (0)498 31 48 92CHÂTILLON QUARRYLocation: 12Châtillon (B)—Activity: production of sandUsed for: road construction, concreteContact: Grégory Allard - Commercial Manager - g.allard@limites.be - +32 (0)498 31 48 92 QUARRY ‘DE GRÈS RÉUNIES’ Location: 13La-Roche-en-Ardenne (B)—Acitivity: production of crushed sandstoneUsed for: asphaltContact: Grégory Allard - Commercial Manager - g.allard@limites.be - +32 (0)498 31 48 92 www.cgrsa.beQUARRY ‘DES LIMITES’Location: 14Wellin (B)—Material produced: limestone aggregates Used for: road construction, concrete, waterworksContact: +32 (0)84 38 84 85 - g.allard@limites.beinfo@limites.be www.limites.beSAMPONT QUARRYLocation: 15Sampont (B)—Activity: production of yellow sandstoneUsed for: roads, concreteContact: Grégory AllardCommercial Manager - g.allard@limites.be +32 (0)498 31 48 92WUSTLocation: 17Thimister-Clermont (B)—Activity: production of precast concrete elementsUsed for: buildings, infrastructure worksContact: Gérôme Livet - Prefabrication Managergerome.livet@wust.be - +32 (0)87 59 48 37 www.wust.beSOCOGETRALocation: 16 Frameries (B)—Activity: production of pretensioned concrete elementsUsed for: infrastructure worksContact: +32 (0)65 45 06 30www.socogetra.comBESIX STEEL & FORMWORKLocation: 18 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw (B)—Activity: cut and bend of reinforcement steel and prefabrication of steel reinforcement cagesUsed for: reinforced concrete, slurry walls, civil worksContact: +32 (0)2 334 19 43SOCOGETRAasphalt production sitesLocations: 8Aubange, 3 Bastogne, 9 Marche-en-Famenne (B)—Activity: production of asphalt mixes and bituminous bindersUsed for: road constructionContact: Bernard Masson - Tarmac Operations Managerbernard.masson@socogetra.com - +32 (0)473 20 15 10Sébastien Devillet - Deputy Tarmac Operations Managersebastien.devillet@socogetra.com - +32 (0)473 83 13 87Aubange: +32 (0)63 37 10 74Bastogne: +32 (0)63 24 52 00Marche-en-Famenne: +32 (0)84 360 200www.socogetra.comBESIX INFRANederlandLocation: 10Roermond (NL)—Activity: production of asphaltUsed for: road constructionContact: +31 (0)475 51 80 30infra.nederland@besix.comwww.besixinfranederland.nlSTEEL &FORMWORK1517811149131461612153521871010 11INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #11911INSIDE Magazine #11910INSIDE Magazine #119More informationMore informationMore informationMore informationMore informationMoreinformation

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SDGs at BESIX GroupAs an active member of the UN Global Compact since 2016, it makes perfect sense for the Group to support the SDGs. Therefore, BESIX Group adopted the SDGs in 2017, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable development.Even though every SDG matters, the Group decided to focus on the 10 SDGs on which it can have the most impact.BESIX Group concentrates in particular on 3 SDGs to which it can add the most value:• SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth• SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production• SDG 13: Climate actionSDG awareness campaignIn 2023, a comprehensive SDG awareness campaign was launched, to engage all employees and contribute to the sustainability agenda. Workshops are being organised to help our teams understand the SDGs and their relevance for our organisation. Everyone can contribute to BESIX Group’s sustainability goals by incorporating sustainable principles into their daily tasks.These sessions also aim to reﬂect on our current SDG selection and, if necessary, to update this selection to match our continuous evolution towards being a sustainable group. SUSTAINABILITYS. FloorHow can you contribute?• Participate in an SDG workshop Understand how BESIX Group supports the SDGs and how you can contribute individually to achieving our sustainability objectives through the SDGs. Check the training schedule in Metrilio or contact your local Training Team. • Organise a workshop in your entity The SDG workshops should take place in all entities. In 2023, sessions were given at BESIX, BESIX RED, Vanhout, and online for colleagues on international sites and Six Construct. Would you like to plan an SDG Workshop in your entity? Contact our Sustainability & ESG team, they will be happy to schedule a visit and run a workshop (ESG@besix.com).• Become an SDG ambassador in your entity By participating in an SDG workshop, you become an SDG ambassador in your entity. Your colleague will recognise you thanks to your special SDG lanyard!"As the IMs Manager, I witness the direct alignment of our operations with the SDGs. Our integrated ISO Certiﬁcations & other credentials ensure that every aspect of our organisation, from well-being to environment is systematically managed and continuously improved. My role involves coordinating these eﬀorts to meet certiﬁcation standards, demonstrating BESIX’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible business practices." Bob Thielemans, IMs Manager."By participating in the SDG Workshop I learned a lot professionally, but also how to apply the SDGs in my daily life and set myself some objectives. Among others, SDG 12 ‘Responsible consumption and production’: for me, this speciﬁcally means drinking from a cup and a reusable bottle instead of disposable cups or plastic bottles. I also do my part by adding SDG 14 ‘Quality education’, as I give the BESIX Culture training during the BDA programme. I really encourage all my colleagues to get involved and choose an SDG objective for 2024." Laura Hauben-De Wit, Oce Manager of the People Department in Brussels.Want to know more?• Follow the Sustainability & ESG e-learning module on eAcademy. Type ‘SDG’ in the search bar above and you will ﬁnd several short videos on the subject and how to contribute to them.• Visit our SDG page on the BESIX Website: Contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - BESIX.• Contact our Sustainability & ESG team for any questions or further information: ESG@besix.com.The Sustainable Development GoalsThe Sustainable 12 13INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119How BESIX Group contributes to the UN’s sustainability objectives:In September 2015, the 193 member states attending the UN General Assembly voted for a new, ambitious action plan for the world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.This agenda contains 17 Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, a powerful blueprint for tackling global issues and building a sustainable future for all.At a company level, the SDGs form a framework supporting the integration of sustainability into its strategy.Given the universal reach of the SDGs, more and more investors, clients, business partners, and auditors ask companies to commit to the SDGs and to set objectives.

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QHSEC. KarelsThis programme works with ambassadors, specially trained volunteers from among the site sta. Their mission is to be even more attentive to safety at work than all the other employees on a site, and above all to help motivate their colleagues to ensure the safety of all. Their role is to observe everyday situations and to approach their colleagues whenever they observe conduct that falls short of the requirements. BE SAFE is based on the perception of risk and works on the principle that team members must look out for each other. On the RTBF site in Brussels (Belgium), where BESIX is working in consortium with Valens and In Advance on the new building for the national French-language television channel, some ﬁfteen BE SAFE ambassadors have been working every day since 2020 to raise their colleagues' safety awareness. BE SAFE was implemented for the entire site team, including members of the temporary consortium and subcontractors.Ariane Larbalestrier, HSE coordinator on the site, explains the ins and outs of BE SAFE. "The idea is to work directly with site workers who volunteer to be ambassadors. They receive training which enables them to address colleagues more eﬀectively. We explain to them how to deal with a safety concern, how to engage in sympathetic dialogue and listen, without getting into conﬂict or abusing control,"explains Ariane.BE SAFE is one of our 4 fundamental safety principles, alongside the 10 Life Saving Rules, the Management Safety Walks, and Subcontractor Commitment. The aim is to constantly raise the level of safety on a site, in parallel with the other safety initiatives already in place, such as the work of the HSE coordinator or audits. "Regular meetings are organised with the ambassadors, during which they can share their experiences, positive or negative, and learn from each other. On the RTBF site, the team is up to speed, the ambassadors and other team members work together and things are running smoothly. But it's still a long-term job, especially as subcontractors come and go, so you have to maintain the synergy with the new arrivals.”The BE SAFE programme is a safety promotion programme that BESIX launched in 2019. BE SAFE takes a positive, behavioural approach to safety, and in recent years has demonstrated the importance of empowerment and mutual support on the worksite in improving the quality of life at work.BE SAFEBE SAFEf creating a workplace where BE SAFE is our way of creaered to raise concerns and everyone feels empowered tideas. sadors play a key role, but it’s Our Ambassadors plae ownership and mutual up to all of us to create oy applying BE SAFE principles.trust by applying BE SSUBCONTRACTORENGAGEMENTWe can subcontract activities, ork but our aim is to work hand in hand in partnership and raise health & safety hand in hand in partnership and raise health & safety capabilities together. We believe that cooperation capabilities together. We believe that cis the key to high performance.LIFE SAVING RULESVING RULESLife Saving Rules are our fe our focus on critical risks on site. We do not compromise on these esomise on these essential rules. This means that everyeryone has the authority to stop works and look for solution in ts and look for solution in team when a Life Saving Rule cannot be rving Rule cannot be respected.MANAGEMENT SAFETY WALKSEEvery week we do a Management Safety Walk. Our aim is not only tOur aim is not only to check and correct, but to coach, consult and improve. We stimulate dialogue onsult and improve. We stimulate dialogueand learning through leadership and participation.CARE IS AT OUR CORE44OUR44FUNDAMENTAL SAFETY PRINCIPLESSafety is also a questionof mutual support!Ariane Larbalestrier, HSE site coordinator with Benoît Jouret, site supervisor on the RTBF site.BE SAFE“Regular meetings are organised with the ambassadors, during which they can share their experiences, positive or negative, and learn from each other."“Regular meewith the ambassadorthey can shar and learn“Of course, the BE SAFE programme doesn’t replace the role of the site managers in terms of safety. For example, every two months I organise a debrieﬁng with the ambassadors and site supervisor Benoît Jouret, during which we share key messages, such as the fact that working on ladders is forbidden. We also look at the results of safety audits and the number of accident-free days. Benoît also insists on order, cleanliness, and waste disposal. And, very importantly, we listen to feedback from our ambassadors. All our safety initiatives are bearing fruit, as we have managed to remain accident-free for around 250 days, with unfortunately one accident - not serious - resulting in an incapacity to work, in February”. “What I love about my work is the enormous diversity it oﬀers. I work in the ﬁeld, my job involves a lot of communication and I work with people," concludes Ariane.Emmanuel Ravzan, in charge of the ‘gyproc-plastering’ team: "As an ambassador, I pay close attention to safety, making sure that workers wear their helmets and safety glasses when working with a grinder, for example, and that they use scaﬀolding rather than ladders or stepladders. Beyond the fact that it's my role to point out any instances of non-compliance, as an ambassador I apply the BE SAFE programme as an awareness-raising tool. BE SAFE creates a climate of mutual support, the aim being for everyone to feel involved when it comes to safety."The RTBF Media Square team is currently working on installing special technology in 80 cm false ﬂoors for ventilation, lighting, and connections for audio-visual equipment speciﬁc to RTBF. It is also working on the façades. With a gross ﬂoor area of 65,000 m², RTBF Media Square comprises two buildings, including a seven-storey main building and a two-story logistics building. It will house radio and television studios, meeting rooms, a restaurant, and a newsroom with a large glass roof. 14 15INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119

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16 17INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119PROJECTS I. BuysseAfter ﬁve years of intense work, BESIX is close to completing the Nachtigal Hydropower Project, which aims at providing renewable energy for Cameroon. Brecht Indekeu, Technical Manager, has been part of the project since the very beginning. INSIDE sat down with him to talk about his role on the project and life in Cameroon. Hello Brecht, can you tell us a bit more about what we are doing in Nachtigal?Certainly. Together with our partners NGE Contracting and SGTM, we are building a hydroelectric facility in Nachtigal, along the river Sanaga. It includes a 420 MW hydroelectric plant, a 1.5-kilometre-long, 14-metre-high dam, and a 3.4-kilometre-long headrace channel. It’s a major project for renewable energy and will cover 30 % of Cameroon’s electricity demand.What has been your role throughout this project?My role has evolved quite a lot these past ﬁve years. Initially, I arrived as Technical Oce Engineer. My focus was mainly on preparing the project site, including the site installations, living quarters, and preparatory works. As the site is located in the middle of the rain forest, we built our own village, including an electricity distribution network, water treatment plant, sewage installations… Additionally, we created a comprehensive network of roads for the project. This was deﬁnitely needed because the site from upstream to downstream is seven kilometres long! As the project unfolded, my responsibilities evolved to encompass the hydromechanical aspect. This included subcontractor selection, contractualisation, and overseeing the design and fabrication of critical components like radial gates, wheel gates, stoplogs, gantries, trash rack and trash rack cleaning machines, and penstocks. Over time, I took on a broader supervisory role, handling the overall design management and all other technical management duties. At this moment, most of my time is dedicated to the commissioning of the works (impounding of the dam, ﬁlling up of penstocks…) and the preparation of the handing-over. Where does the project stand currently?We are in the ﬁnal stages of the project, so there’s a lot of ﬁnishing work ongoing. Once these are completed, we only have one ﬁnal step to go, namely ﬁnalising the testing and commissioning of the various components of the project.Alongside the ﬁnishing works, we have started to gradually dismantle site installations and to return certain areas of the site to their natural state. Building this hydropower plant required space to erect the site installations. That’s why we’re re-planting indigenous trees and plants where we can, so the forest can thrive again.What makes the project so unique?From an engineering perspective, working on this project is a fantastic opportunity, as it incorporates almost all construction disciplines from asphalt and concrete works to hydromechanical and electrical works, to drilling works and civil engineering works.Also, we have installed workshops on-site for basically everything. For example, we have our own cut-and-bend steelyard, three concrete batching plants, two asphalt plants, a crusher plant, a carpentry… Thanks to these, we have a high level of self-suciency which was needed seeing the site’s location.What’s your professional highlight of the project?Overseeing the canal ﬁlling for the second time was a pivotal moment for me. The ﬁlling was a crucial test for the repair work we did to solve the defects we identiﬁed during the ﬁrst test ﬁlling. To then hear from the Quality Engineers that everything was in order is an indescribable feeling. I even hugged one of the engineers out of excitement (laughs). If you can choose one moment from your time in Cameroon, which one will you cherish most?There are so many! In the past ﬁve years, I have had the opportunity to discover the country and I travelled around a lot. One time, I even got to spend the night with a Baka pygmy tribe deep in the rainforest. There were no roads or paths leading to the tribe, so it was really in the middle of nowhere! Also, spending the lockdown on-site was a memorable and unique experience. During lockdown, we were grounded within the site boundaries and thus had to live together for months on end. Luckily, the terrain is huge, so we found ways to entertain ourselves. For instance, we bought ourselves a couple of mountain bikes and explored the forest surrounding our site. There were no paths or signage, which made it a real adventure at times… But a fun one! Five years at work for green electricity in Cameroon

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18 19INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119PROJECTSH. El NammariIn partnership with Modern Building Leaders (MBL) and Boskalis, BESIX is currently working on the ﬁrst phase of a marine works contract awarded by the Port of NEOM, servicing Oxagon City. The Oxagon project is strategically located at the crossroads of vital maritime routes, including the Suez Canal, the Red Sea, and the Persian Gulf. The primary objective of the project is the modernisation and expansion of port infrastructure.Challenges and solutionsThe project encompasses a comprehensive revitalisation of the port, to facilitate the seamless movement of goods through the region by accommodating large and medium-sized container ships, feeder vessels, and bulk carriers. This involves deepening access channels, expanding the harbour basin, constructing versatile quay walls, upgrading existing facilities, deploying state-of-the-art port equipment, and establishing rail infrastructure for gantry cranes. Furthermore, the scale of the task and the volume of equipment required pose another challenge that necessitates careful planning and precision. All together, these challenges exhibit a wide spectrum of complexity, necessitating tailored solutions. Procuring proﬁcient professionals assumes paramount importance, and we are diligently surmounting logistical hurdles to streamline material sourcing.Innovative construction methodsAt the heart of our project's success lies an innovative construction approach: the utilisation of sheet piles in conjunction with H-beams, commonly referred to as King Piles, to create a resilient combi wall. Sheet piles are sections of sheet materials featuring interlocking edges, driven into the ground to provide earth retention and excavation support. King Piles are rolled H-beams with embedded interlocking clutches, forming the structural backbone of the combi wall. King Piles, measuring approximately 1.44 meters in width and 35 meters in length, confer stability to the quay walls. Given the diverse soil composition across the project site, which includes extremely compacted ground in some areas and soft soil in others, advanced geotechnical engineering solutions have been devised by our in-house design oce. Our approach encompasses the replacement of unsuitable soil with more robust materials in speciﬁc locations, enabling the successful installation of 75 to 100 metres of combi wall per month.Balancing ambition and sustainabilityIn any large-scale project, the delicate balance between ambition and sustainability must be maintained. We remain committed to prioritising eco-friendly materials and techniques, endorsing energy eciency, and striving to incorporate cutting-edge practices and solutions to minimize the ecological footprint of our work in line with global sustainability standards.We employ sheet piles manufactured using renewable energy sources to signiﬁcantly reduce CO2 emissions. A total of 41,000 tonnes of environmentally friendly 'green' steel will be utilised in the project, even though it entails a higher cost. Additionally, approximately half a million rocks, by-products of NEOM's blasting operations, will be repurposed to further diminish the project's carbon footprint.Diversity and unityWith the meticulous selection and deployment of approximately one thousand professionals engaged in the joint venture during peak periods, our foremost objective is to foster a cohesive team spirit. Within Oxagon, our diverse team comprises individuals from various countries, including Egypt, South Africa, Romania, India, Pakistan, Sudan, the Philippines, and more.Deﬁning progressAs we tackle the challenges of revitalising vital port infrastructure in this strategic maritime hub, we are not only enhancing trade but also shaping a future where our values deﬁne progress. We are proud to embark on this journey as we continue our legacy, embodying excellence, innovation, and sustainability as indispensable elements in an era marked by ambitious construction. The Oxagon project:A united front for excellence,innovation, and sustainabilityTargeted sustainable features:• 25 % sustainable procurement• 25 % recycled/reused materials• 100 %local sourcing or reuse of ﬁll and excavated materials within a 40-km radius• 30 %reduction in net embodied carbon of materials used, surpassing environmental standards

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Congratulations! Our colleagues of BESIX in France have successfully delivered the Deloitte University project in Bailly-Romainvilliers, in the outskirts of Paris. The project was commissioned by Nexity, France’s leading real estate group, to become the university centre for Deloitte employees working in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.The complex spans 22,000 m², nestled within 13.5 hectares of greenery, including a man-made lake. It features a large auditorium, 43 versatile classrooms, 12 meeting rooms, a restaurant, ﬁtness facilities, and 265 bedrooms.We spearheaded all construction works, including earthworks, foundation works, civil engineering, structural and ﬁnishing works, as well as landscaping. Complementing our work, Dalkia Smart Building undertook the technical aspects of the project, overseeing heating, air conditioning, water, lighting, electricity, and overall building management.The result is a comprehensive solution renowned for its energy performance and biodiversity consciousness. Constructed with low-emission green concrete, covered with 1,100 square metres of solar panels, it boasts ﬁve top-tier certiﬁcations: 'BREEAM Excellent', 'Energie+ Carbone-', 'Biodiversity Excellent', 'Well Building Institute Gold', and 'Cradle to Cradle'. Additionally, it clinched the prestigious 2023 MIPIM award for 'Best alternative project' among 43 ﬁnalists.21INSIDE Magazine #11920INSIDE Magazine #119

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A smoking ceremony held by Traditional Owners to bless the project site for construction.22 23INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119PROJECTSJ. MorrisonConstructed by BESIX Watpac, Brisbane Grammar School’s new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) achieved project completion in late 2023, just in time for the commencement of the 2024 academic year. The STEAM Precinct is poised to help shape future leaders amongst its students, preparing them to tackle complex global challenges and prepare for jobs that haven’t even emerged yet. The multi-storey building is a dynamic education space that includes 15 co-laboratories, 14 general learning areas, ﬁve design areas, art studios, and a 300-seat open auditorium. The project has faced considerable challenges – like many projects that commenced during COVID. The project team was able to turn these challenges around to delivera remarkable new facility for the school. The building’s main feature is its expansive atrium that is framed by three learning pods that each extend across multiple levels.The three learning pods underwent rigorous planning to ensure safe and ecient installation. There were seven structural rings in total to create the three pods. The rings were lifted into position using a dual-lift system over a two-week period. Senior Project Manager Brenden Cartwright said 12 months of planning went into preparing for lifting the pods into place. “Initial methodology had the pod structure installed with the tower crane prior to the roof structure. Given resource constraints and the risk of the pod structures delaying the roof structure, the project team implemented an alternative installation method to mitigate delays which proved successful,” Brenden said.“Numerous meetings were held to plan for the safe installation, and we also collaborated with our engineer Projex Partners, the steel fabricator Sencova, and the installer, Mulherin, to achieve a great outcome.”The pods are suspended from the roof structure with 30mm stainless steel Ancon hangers. Each Ancon hanger has a 25 mm tolerance (-/+ 12.5 mm). As the roof structure spans the atrium and is subject to deﬂection of up to 35 mm, engineering assessment and planning were undertaken in advance of construction to allow the Ancon hangers to be procured from the United Kingdom. Each pod ring has approximately ﬁve cubic metres of concrete. Following concrete pours, the pods were then ﬁnished with either full-height glazing or stainless-steel mesh and balustrade.The construction of the STEAM Building marks a new era of learning and education for the school. In a media release regarding the ocial opening of the building, Brisbane Grammar School’s Headmaster said the building represented more than just a centre for learning. “STEAM represents a progressive shift in teaching and learning, promoting the sharing of ideas across subjects. More than just high-tech facilities and scientiﬁc equipment, STEAM is a shift in the way the teaching and learning is approached, and preparing students for the future.” BESIX Watpac is proud of the project team’s focus on delivering a quality outcome for the school which has left a positive legacy for the school’s students who will be able to enjoy the very best there is to oer when it comes to STEAM education. Building reaches practical completionBrisbane GrammarSchool STEAM

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24 25INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119PROJECTSF. BribosiaThe focus on industrial projects is not out of the blue. The industrial sector is traditionally one that values our engineering capabilities. We speak the language of our industrial partners, which puts us in a unique position to take on these challenges and turn them into opportunities. And the best way to do that is to get involved in a project as early as possible. ECI contracts encourage collaboration from the start, allowing us to use our expertise to optimise designs, control costs and minimise risks. The result is a balanced project with healthy margins. Being involved in the project from the early stages also allows us to use the expertise of the whole group to serve the customer. This way, we highlight our role as a one-stop shop.More talked-about projectsA rich history of complex projects around the world proves that we are more than just a normal contractor:• Project ONE, for client INEOS, in which our subsidiary Franki Foundations carried out remarkable piling work, illustrates the group's technical expertise in foundation works on industrial projects.• Project Hyoﬀwind, where we dealt with the design and realisation of a green hydrogen production unit in Zeebrugge. This project is another milestone for Hyowind, which is playing an important pioneering role in line with the Flemish, Belgian and European hydrogen strategy.• Within Project KevlinX, we partnered with Equans to design and build a state-of-the-art 40MVA data centre in Neder-Over-Heembeek. Within the joint contract, we are responsible for the design and construction of the civil, structural, and architectural elements, while Equans will carry out the design and installation of the MEP elements.• In the Netherlands, Project PALLAS under-lines our capabilities in a highly specialised construction project, such as realising the building excavation for a reactor for medical isotopes.• As an integrated construction partner for the realisation of water treatment plants in Mamer, De Gavers, Senee and Trivières, we are also making a solid contribution to improved and optimised water management in Belgium.Projects with a strong environmental linkWithin these projects, we prefer to take on the role of strategic partner, by actively contributing to the design process, proposing technical and cost-saving solutions, reducing construction time, and improving the sustainability and quality of the project Industrial partners also have projects with a strong environmental link, such as water treatment plants, hydrogen plants, power plants... which is an opportunity for us to support them in achieving their energy transition.Shared responsibilityFor us, it is clear: contractor involvement at an early stage oers signiﬁcant advantages. An interesting aspect of ECI contracts is the focus on risk management and shared responsibility. By involving the contractor early in the project, risks are jointly identiﬁed and addressed, leading to more informed decision-making and, ultimately, better project outcomes. We have built a strong reputation in this regard, through our ability to work closely with all project stakeholders and by prioritising transparency and communication. Mark Beyst, general manager at BESIX Belgium-Luxembourg clariﬁes: "When can we be sure of a good project? If the margin of error during execution is reduced to an absolute minimum. By getting involved earlier, we can help guide things towards a sustainable project. At the design table, especially as a contractor, you can already make a big diﬀerence by writing out a vision together."A partnership with us in the form of an ECI contract can be the key to a successful project. And it ﬁts perfectly with today's shift in the construction industry towards more collaborative and integrated project management. The power ofECI contracts“We speak the languageof our industrialpartners.”Integrated, sustainable, and innovative industrial projects are increasingly on our radar. To execute those projects as eﬃciently and optimally as possible, we very much focus on ECI contracts: Early Contractor Involvement. After all, the challenges facing the construction industry are not insigniﬁcant, so working together across the entire chain is crucial. And we want to play a key role in this!

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26 27INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119In October 2021, Socogetra was chosen by Infrabel, the Belgian railway infrastructure management company, and Belgian railway engineering company TUC Rail for a large railway infrastructure contract in Watermael-Boitsfort as part of the RER project, the Regional Express Network around Brussels. The project involved the creation of two new tracks to be used by future RER trains, the widening of the railway roadbed, and the adaptation of the infrastructure to allow the Brussels-Ottignies line to be upgraded to four tracks. Following the late withdrawal, at the end of August 2022, of the suppliers who were supposed to deliver two girder bridges and two footbridges in prestressed concrete for this project, and in the absence of other suppliers capable of producing such highly specialised structures within the allotted time, Socogetra decided to take up the challenge and produce these structures in-house. Challenge taken upEmbarking on this adventure presented certain risks, since the structures were due to be installed on the site at the beginning of April 2023! That left just seven months to complete the preliminary design, obtain budget approval, draw up the execution plans, build the pre-stressing bench equipped with speciﬁc equipment, and build the four structures. On top of that, CE certiﬁcation was also required by the client as an additional guarantee of product quality.We had to ﬁnd an available site belonging to the BESIX Group that was easily accessible and compatible with handling large, heavy components. Located in the Frameries industrial estate, the Bagetra (now Socogetra) site met all these criteria.The adventure continuesAfter this ultra-fast start-up, the pre-stressing workshop continued its activity in 2023. Last year, the Frameries team produced all the pre-stressed structures ordered from Socogetra for the Infrabel worksites: ﬁve girder bridge decks, four footbridges, and nine beam-slabs.The workshop that was created also oers alternatives to the basic solutions. At the Watermael-Boitsfort RER worksite, the upper slab of a 285 metre-long covered trench initially planned to be made of cast-in-place concrete, was replaced by a prefabricated structure consisting of 90 pre-stressed beams. To the client's immense satisfaction, this solution allowed the completion time, which had been aected by a delay in granting planning permission, to be shortened by ﬁve months.Furthermore, in-house pre-stressing capabilities also increase our “one-stop shop” opportunities. Socogetra was able to oer a very cost-eective turnkey solution to an industrial company in the province of Hainaut served by a private railway line seeking to replace its dilapidated engineering structures. The project is scheduled for completion in early 2025.Finally, with CE certiﬁcation, Socogetra is now fulﬁlling its ﬁrst orders as a supplier to companies outside the BESIX Group.In conclusion, the outlook for this new production unit is bright, with a ﬁne facility that is set to grow even further in terms of performance and competitiveness. Want to ﬁnd out more about the Frameries pre-stressing workshop? Scan this QR code:Since 26 November 2023, the residents of the health resort of Spa have been able to rediscover the joys of swimming. The long-awaited reopening of the public swimming pool ﬁnally took place after two years of closure due to the ﬂoods of July 2021 and the subsequent refurbishment works.A new aquatic showcasedesigned by WUST, in association with ACH ConstructThere were two main parts to the project. The ﬁrst consisted of converting part of the existing building to house the cafeteria, changing rooms, and administrative oces. The second carried out in parallel, involved the construction of a new building to house a semi-Olympic (25-metre) swimming pool, a second 10-metre by 6-metre swimming pool for beginners, and a children’s paddling pool. Access is now via a large, light-ﬁlled hall with a bird's eye view of the pools. A much-needed updateThis complete overhaul of the public swimming pool had become essential. The building, constructed by Etablissements Jean Wust, dated from the 1960s, when construction systems took very little account of accessibility and insulation criteria. Today, people with reduced mobility can access the changing rooms via a central lift and the pool via adapted steps, or a crane if necessary. The pool also beneﬁts from solid advances in energy eciency. In addition to solar panels and optimum building insulation, the technical installation has been redesigned and placed as close as possible to the pools (in the basement) to minimise heat loss. The heat from the water in the showers is even reused for this purpose. A cogeneration system completes the energy-saving package, which aims to reduce energy consumption by 40 %.The structure of the extension was made of cast-in-place concrete to ensure that it was eectively watertight. The roof structure of the entire complex is made of glulam and Heraklith® panels. These perform the dual function of supporting the waterprooﬁng and reducing noise for pool users.Successful application of the “Design & Build” approachThe construction of the new Spa pool was carried out as a Design & Build project. As François Cormeau, the Works Director supervising the site explains, this collaborative project management approach proved particularly successful: "The Spa authorities, members of the autonomous municipal administration, architects and contractors worked together to achieve the result that users can now enjoy to the full. Our partners and subcontractors also played an active role in the success of the project.” Great interest in this project During the course of the project, the site teams hosted a KiddyBuild day. It is always a great pleasure to introduce construction trades to children who are extremely enthusiastic about the idea of visiting building sites and taking part in the workshops organised as part of the programme. Another very successful event was the 2023 Open Site Day. Visitors ﬂocked to see how the work was progressing. The visit to the local swimming pool was all the more interesting as many of the children and adults had learned to swim there! A new communalswimming poolin the thermal town of SpaThe Frameriespre-stressing workshop:a risk turned into an opportunityPROJECTSO. PetryPROJECTSR. Arnould

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Opening by Minister Jo Brouns on October 1.Team 'Asster-Vanhout-Dethier' at Open Companies Day on 1 October 2023.28 29INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119In Spring 2022, Vanhout started the construction of two new buildings for the Asster vzw Psychiatric Hospital in Sint-Truiden, campus Melveren. BESIX Unitec's mission is to connect everything to everyone. VOO has therefore found an ideal partner in them to modernise their coaxial networks and create a network in the so-called white zones. Vulnerable target groupThe hospital focuses on children, adolescents, and (young) adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, often also with aggression problems and psychiatric disorders. Currently, there is a great social need for shelters for this vulnerable group. Well within the scheduled timing and exactly two years after the start of construction, all children and young people were able to move into the new building.Extensive knowledge sharing between client and other partiesThe new building complex on Melveren campus is a combination of modern care and the latest building technologies. Osar Architects delivered a design allowing "appropriate care to be provided within an optimal and serene setting, respectful of residents, visitors, staﬀ and the wider environment". This was the premise of the client Asster. Dethier and Vanhout were the construction partners.Noteworthy in this construction process is that prior to the construction period, extensive knowledge sharing took place between the various construction partners. This eventually led to the modern building where optimal care is possible. In addition, the careful siting on the sloping terrain provides a beautiful and soothing view from the rooms and living spaces. In the design, various indoor and outdoor spaces are connected through glass sections, giving a very open feel to this building. In order for the building to also optimally meet the needs of its users from a technical point of view, sustainable technologies were deliberately chosen. For example, the roof was equipped with the maximum number of solar panels needed. For heating and cooling, heat pumps combined with underﬂoor heating were selected, complemented by fan coil units and screens. Well within schedule despite a challenging situation One of the challenges during the construction process was to construct the new building right next to an existing building, that was inhabited by the youngest children on campus. That had to be taken into account at all times. Nevertheless, with the necessary creativity and ﬂexibility, Vanhout managed to deliver well within schedule. In just one and a half years, 5,000 m² were implemented."We started the build in early 2022, and construction ﬁrms Vanhout and Dethier stuck to the schedule day by day," says facilities manager Bart Maes. On 1 October 2023, Jo Brouns, Flemish minister of Economy, Innovation, Work, Social Economy, and Agriculture, symbolically opened the buildings ahead of Open Companies Day. In addition to the new buildings, the next phase will include environmental landscaping and conversion of Sirius, the ward for the very youngest residents on campus. A few years ago, VOO, a Walloon cable operator based in Liège, started modernising its coaxial networks in Wallonia to increase the speed to 1.2 GHz. In addition, VOO also wants to equip white areas - areas in more remote rural areas that have so far lacked access to high-speed internet connectivity - with the necessary infrastructure to oer digital data trac via ﬁbre. With a three-year framework contract, BESIX Unitec will work to make this possible. The existing infrastructure will be upgraded and white areas upgraded to the ultra-fast 1.2 GHz network in a single operation. As 90 % of the internet network was equipped using poles, often together with the electricity network, the work will be done at height. For the realisation of the VOO project, BESIX Unitec assembled a local team. This currently consists of a project superintendent, a ﬁeld coach, a preparation team of four engineers, and a commissioning team of 16 people. Despite rain and wind, they set to work modifying the existing coaxial cables and creating a new network in the white areas. To keep everything on track, an internal monitoring tool has been developed by the sta to exchange plans, photos, as-builts, proﬁtability... It also helps the team stick to tight deadlines and schedules. The works should be completed in one to two weeks to minimise disruption to the commercial activities of VOO, teleworking customers, and businesses. And so that means the team must work in all weathers.The acquisition of VOO by Orange extended the tender even further. Thus, the local team will work to upgrade 400 packages or optical intersections to 1.2 GHz by in 2024, providing ultra-fast internet for Walloon residents.Denis Moïse, Project Development Manager, BESIX Unitec: "We are immensely proud of how far the whole team has come, the work they have already done, and the quality and care with which they go to work every day for our customer." Scaling the heights to moderniseThe new buildings 'Spika' and 'De Zeilen' house eight living groups with:• 57 rooms with 60 beds• 24 oﬃces • 12 kitchens • 5 seclusion and time-out roomsA design by Osar ArchitectsImplementation in a temporary partnership with Dethier Construction period: May 2022 - November 2023Some ﬁguresIn 2024, we will install 400 intersections. One optical intersection consists of:• 2-3 km of cable to be replaced• 50 ampliﬁers• 400 couplers• 10 feeds• > 2,000 connectorsVideo featuring Project Manager Arnaud Fierens:Vanhout constructs new buildingfor child and adolescent psychiatry in Sint-TruidenVOO's coax network in WalloniaPROJECTSS. Van DammePROJETCSH. Van Laer

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Frederik Deurinck, head of technical design within TM ROCO30 31INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119ENGINEERINGC. KarelsThe Oosterweel project, developed by Lantis for the Flemish government, is one of the largest infrastructure and urban planning projects ever undertaken in Belgium. Within THV COTU, for the realisation of the Scheldt Tunnel, and TM ROCO, for the right bank subproject, BESIX is demonstrating its engineering and project management skills. “It’s a special project, in terms of both size and complexity,” says Frederik Deurinck, head of technical design within TM ROCO.The Scheldt TunnelIn 2020, Lantis awarded the contract for the realisation of the Scheldt Tunnel to the ‘Tijdelijke Handelsvereniging Combinatie Oosterweeltunnel’, THV COTU for short (Temporary Trade Association Combination Oosterweel Tunnel). The Scheldt Tunnel is the main part of the Oosterweel Link, closing the Antwerp Ring Road on the northern side. “This is an Engineering and Build contract. We draw up the Integrality Design, in coordination with the other contractors in the Oosterweel project, among others, TM Ocotech, who is responsible for the design and execution of the traﬃc and tunnel technical installations,” explains Patriek Depuydt, director of design within THV COTU. “It was a challenge to bring the permit dossier of the client to a coordinated design, but by combining everyone's expertise and with the strong desire to succeed, we accomplished this together. The full integrality design was sealed by the end of 2022. Currently, the implementation design is being ﬁnalised.”The corona pandemic was also a challenge. Patriek: “The original plan to organise a joint workplace for all partners and consultancy ﬁrms fell through because of corona restrictions. So in a short space of time we had to switch to a new way of working, but we saw that as a fun challenge rather than an obstacle. In the end, there are about a dozen parties involved in the design, working together remotely, and we can be justiﬁably proud that this is going so smoothly.” Sunken tunnelThe tunnel has a total length of 1,800 metres and is being built using the ‘immersed tube’ method. This involves building eight tunnel elements of about 60,000 tonnes each in the Zeebrugge inner port and then towing them aﬂoat to Antwerp via the North Sea and the Western Scheldt. There, they will be sunk one after the other in a previously dredged sinker trench in the Scheldt. This technique, in which gravity and the buoyant force of water constantly compete, is one of the most ingenious construction methods in concrete and marine engineering.“The immersed tunnel is the crown jewel of this subproject from an engineering point of view,”says Patriek. “Transporting and sinking the tunnel elements via the Scheldt is a feat. It’s also a special project where BESIX has a pioneering role in geotechnics and BIM in the design of the tunnel elements, construction dock, Scheldt dykes, sinker trench, and so on. It’s worth noting that this subproject is taking place in three locations: for the access to and from the Left Bank and Right Bank of the Scheldt, and the construction of the tunnel elements in Zeebrugge. That too is quite unique.”The Right Bank ROCO contractWe are also busy on the Right Bank. The contract for the realisation of this subproject was awarded to the ‘Tijdelijke Maatschap Rechteroever Compleet’, or TM ROCO for short (Temporary Partnership Right Bank Complete) in 2021. The project has a construction value of €2.5 billion. The Right Bank subproject is of a scale and complexity unprecedented in Flanders. Frederik: “Because of its immense size, the project has been split into ﬁve subprojects. As with the Scheldt Tunnel project, there are also many parties working together on the Right Bank. For instance, there are ﬁve consultancy ﬁrms alone helping to carry out the engineering work.”Also unique is the combination of dierent construction techniques coming together. Frederik: “You’ll come across just about every possible technique in this project: freezing, making diaphragm walls, Stross method,… And it’s being done in a fairly urbanised area, where we have to consider limited space and obstacles such as the pre-metro tubes at Schijnpoort. That makes the whole thing extra complex.”Green and society-friendly environmentProject Right Bank connects the Scheldt Tunnel and the R1, both northbound and eastbound, via the Oosterweel node. In the process, the R1 will be completely immersed and partially roofed, so the Merksem viaduct will disappear and the urban landscape will undergo a thorough transformation to become a contemporary green and society-friendly environment. Frederik: “Also in our scope is the connection of the existing Ring Road as far as the Royers lock, by means of a stacked tunnel. As far as our section is concerned, we were able to chalk up a milestone at the beginning of the year, when the permit for the bypass was granted. We will build a temporary bypass until the Merksem viaduct has been demolished to create enough space to build the tunnels.”Ideal partnerWithin large, complex projects, we always proﬁle ourselves as an ideal partner, combining knowledge and experience and thus giving the customer complete peace of mind. And that added value comes into its own in a particularly extensive project like Oosterweel. Patriek: “Good preparation is crucial for a successful project. We check in with the customer and we combine expertise from the ﬁeld with good and clear management. We recognise the complexity that studies entail. That helps us manage the project as a whole better and more eﬃciently.”Frederik concludes: “Indeed, it enables us to correctly assess situations. We ﬁnd that this expertise is very much appreciated by the client, Lantis. Of course, we still encounter surprises, but our feel for the ﬁeld allows us to act quickly. That ﬂexibility is a great asset, especially in projects of great complexity and scale.”BESIX shows versatilityand experience in Oosterweel projectProject information• Project name: Oosterweel• Category: Bridges, tunnels, road construction• Location: Antwerp, BelgiumClient: LantisConstruction period: 2020 – 2030Patriek Depuydt, director of design within THV COTU

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INSIGHTC. KarelsINSIGHTF. BribosiaBESIX Foundation is a private foundation that was set up by BESIX Group in 2009 in celebration of the company’s 100th anniversary. Education, Construction, and Environment are the pillars of the foundation’s mission. The sectors where the BESIX Foundation volunteers provide help are numerous:• Each year, the foundation sends volunteers to help the non-proﬁt organisation Opération Thermos Operatie to distribute hot meals in the winter to the homeless in Brussels. A similar initiative takes place in Liège. • Right2Learn is a programme launched by BESIX Foundation in which volunteers provide computer courses to our workers living far from home, enabling them to communicate with their loved ones digitally to exchange e-mails, and photos or even call for free. They also organise English lessons. • KiddyBuild is also a BESIX Foundation project that allows underprivileged children from primary schools to discover the various building professions. Enthusiastic volunteers guide them through a class with a board game or on site with practical workshops. • The BESIX CleanUp Day is another BESIX Foundation initiative, organised with our QHSE teams, where BESIX volunteers roll up their sleeves and collect waste in their community. The purpose is similar to the River CleanUp where volunteers gather every year to clean up a river in Belgium or with the Beach CleanUp in the Middle East. They are many unsung heroes behind a successful project. One of them is the contract manager. He or she is the one who can maximise operational and ﬁnancial performance, while reducing risks, by critically following up on all aspects of a contract. INSIDE sat down with Jan Van Steirteghem, COO of BESIX Group, to shed light on this indispensable role.“As repeatedly mentioned in our strategic updates, eﬀective contract management is the cornerstone of our operations. The importance of proactive contract management cannot be overstated; it is the lifeblood of our contractual relationships” starts Jan. “Although the contract manager plays a pivotal role, the collective expertise of the Legal and Technical Oﬃce teams also signiﬁcantly contributes to its success.”The ﬁrst reason why it’s important, of course, is cost control: “Good contract management helps us in identifying and avoiding potential cost overruns by ensuring that all contractual obligations are met within the agreed budgets. It allows for early detection of variations and ensures that any changes are invoiced.” Then comes risk mitigation: “Proactive contract management identiﬁes and quantiﬁes risks associated with contract non-compliance, scope issues, and disputes. This is crucial in avoiding later legal battles or penalties that can have severe ﬁnancial implications for the project.” Lastly, it’s good for performance management too as it ensures that all parties deliver on their commitments, thereby avoiding delays and maintaining project timelines which are critical for the ﬁnancial success of the project.Three down-to-earth ways of managing your contract“One day, a famous lawyer told me ‘if it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist’”, continues Jan. “I have tried to apply this lesson consistently. My best advice would be to always make sure your communications with your client are timely, well-documented, and substantiated with evidence. Leave written breadcrumbs! Inform and conﬁrm with your client with clarity, back every claim with proof, such as pictures or documents, and end with an explicit call to action.”To which Jan adds an important nuance: “Too often our colleagues see this as an aggressive step, which it isn’t. It is professional and in everybody’s best interest including the clients’, to document our exchanges.”Jan adds two other strong tips, the ﬁrst one about keeping the lines of communication open with the client. “When faced with explicit or implicit variations orders from clients, such as requests for additional work, it's not enough to simply negotiate for more time. One must also consider the ﬁnancial implications, including the direct and indirect costs and overheads, and communicate these to the client promptly. An informal heads-up to your client about impending formal communication maintains an open dialogue, which is invaluable. Even under strain, you should never let communication falter. Informal meetings can often pave the way for smoother negotiations and understanding. In a nutshell: grab that cup of coﬀee with your client!”Last but not least, Jan also insists on restraint. “I’m not in favour of ‘build ﬁrst, argue later’. Experience has taught me that it’s a pitfall to avoid, as it weakens BESIX’s position for a fair negotiation. Leverage is best maintained by resolving disputes proactively, ideally before additional work commences. Your duty to notify is not just a contractual obligation but a strategic tool for managing client expectations and project outcomes. In a nutshell, if taking initiative is commendable, caution is yet advised: you should always consult with the client before acting on any issues that arise. This not only keeps them informed but also protects you from any unilateral decision-making repercussions.”“ If it isn’t written down,it doesn't exist”In January 2024, BESIX Foundation celebrated its 15th anniversary. In the course of these years, almost 20,000 volunteers participated in 348 activities organised by the foundation on the 4 continents where our Group is active. Since its creation, the foundation also ﬁnanced 390 projects for a total of 6 million euros.15 years of solidarity thanks to BESIX Foundation’s 20,000 volunteers“The BESIX Foundation’s achievements for the last fantastic 15 years illustrate so beautifully and year after year the Group’s and its staﬀ’s capacity to get largely mobilised around societal initiatives. I am always moved by the enthusiastic availability of so many colleagues, it feels like a continuous miracle for 15 years! In 2024, BESIX Group allocates again a budget to our initiatives and deserves our special gratitude for contributing to BESIX Foundation’s sustainable commitment! Let us all keep being active BESIX Foundation ambassadors and take pride in working for a better world."Frédéric de Schrevel, BESIX Foundation Chairman“The BESIX“for the last findispensable role.too as it ensures that all parties deliver on their commitments, thereby avoiding delays and maintaining project timelines which are critical for the ﬁnancial success of the project.“One day, a famous lawyer told me ‘if it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist’”, “I have tried to apply this lesson consistently. My best advice would be to always make sure your communications with your client are timely, “So many places and times when colleagues, and often their loved ones, have lent a hand to a good cause! Thank you all for contributing to this great adventure, you make it happen! And thank you on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of people who have been helped since 2009."Donatienne de SpirletBESIX Foundation Executive Ocer“So many places and times when coland often their loVideo with more information on BESIX Foundation: 32 33INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119

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Left: Guy Winandy signing the international framework agreement, 2017From left to right: Jean-Marc Hasselt, Willy Pitou, Guy Winandy (secretary), Georey Martin, Bernard Parmentier, Francesco Mamone, Charly Fogel, Irène Dewit, Laurent Hannequart, Rudi Caes, Franck Fornaro, Christophe Claus, Stefaan Jansen, Miguel Pereira, Hubert Dudas, Alexandre Govaerts (coordinator)34 35INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119OUR PEOPLEG. WinandyFor 20 years, BESIX Group's European Works Council (EWC) has been a pillar of social dialogue at European level. Guy Winandy, its secretary, recalls for INSIDE how far it has come in the last two decades.Reminder: what is a EuropeanWorks Council (EWC)?Born of a 1994 European directive in response to the international expansion of companies, the EWC concept was introduced to strengthen dialogue between employees and management beyond national borders, in all companies (or groups of companies) with a Community dimension - i.e. employing at least 1,000 workers in the Member States and a minimum of 150 workers in at least two Member States.In 2002, BESIX responded to this call, creating its own EWC after a year of fruitful negotiations. Today, as we celebrate its 20th anniversary, we look back at its evolution and its signiﬁcant contributions to the company.Who makes up the BESIX Group’s European Works Council?The BESIX EWC is ﬁrst and foremost a diverse team of employee representatives, chosen according to national laws but also united by a common commitment to the continuous improvement of our workplace. This team has grown over time, including co-opted members to represent each corner of BESIX' European business, ensuring a voice for those previously unrepresented.What is the role of the EWC?The role of our members goes far beyond mere representation. They are the guardians of our collective interests, ensuring that every decision taken by our Executive Committee resonates positively across all BESIX branches in Europe. They are our reporters, educators, and liaisons, ensuring that every voice is heard and every concern addressed.What has the EWC achieved in concrete terms?Over time, the EWC has transcended formal meetings to become an active forum for dialogue and decision-making. It has been involved in key moments in the life of the company, such as acquisitions or sales, oering its opinion and ensuring that crucial information ﬂows freely. Through annual training and the development of strategic work plans, our representatives have developed a deep understanding of international issues, enabling BESIX to successfully navigate the complex landscape of international labour law and standards.The culmination of this development was the signing of an international framework agreement in 2017, a testament to our commitment to respecting fundamental workers' rights at all our sites, everywhere in the world. This achievement is the fruit of the hard work and determination of our EWC members, who continue to ensure that it is strictly applied. The fact that we have signed this agreement allows us to be part of the reference group which veriﬁes on site that the terms and conditions are respected. This takes us well beyond the scope of our agreement with BESIX Group.Beyond our borders, the EWC has also initiated European worksite visits, strengthening our common understanding and cohesion around BESIX projects.Looking to the future, the BESIX EWC is not resting on its laurels. With ambitious new objectives, such as the creation of a communications network and the standardisation of beneﬁts across the group, we continue to move forward, united and motivated, towards a future where every member of BESIX, wherever they are in Europe, feels valued and listened to.Twenty years after its creation, the BESIX EWC remains more than ever a symbol of our collective commitment to progress, equity, and European solidarity. BESIX Group's European Works Council celebrates its 20th anniversary!“We have a great track record and we can be proud of what we have already achieved.”35INSIDEMagazine#119The current full members are:Charly FOGEL(Employee, LuxTP, LCGB),Willy PITOU (Worker, LuxTP, LCGB), ChristopheCLAUS(Worker, Franki Foundations, FGTB), Jean-MarcHASSELT(Worker, WUST, CSC), Irène DEWIT(Employee, BESIX, CSC),BernardPARMENTIER (Worker, BESIX, FGTB), FranckFORNARO(Worker, Jacques Delens, FGTB),Guy WINANDY(EWC Secretary, Permanent Delegate, WUST, CSC).The alternates are: Miguel PEIRERA (Worker, LuxTP, LCGB), Geoﬀrey MARTIN (Permanent Delegate, WUST, FGTB),Hubert DUDAS(Full-time Delegate, Cobelba, CSC),LaurentHANNEQUART(Worker, Franki Foundations, FGTB),FrancescoMAMONE (Worker, BESIX SA, CSC).The co-opted members are: The co-opted members are: The co-opRudiCAES(Worker, BESIX UNITEC, CSC) and StefanJANSEN(Worker, Vanhout Bilzen, ABVV). AlexandreGOVAERTS is the coordinator, appointed by the European Federation of Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW).As a reminder, co-opted members are delegates representing their company on the EWC if the company is not already represented by a full member. Each company within the group may have a co-opted representative on the EWC.

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Dammam StadiumDammam, Saudi ArabiaLetter of Intent received for the construction of the Dammam Stadium. The venue will seat 45,985 supporters and span on an 800,000m² plot. DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX MIDDLE EAST, in joint venture with AL BAWANIElectromechanical equipment and rebuilding of water reservoirLokeren, BelgiumReconstruction of the water reservoir Lokeren 1, with a new booster system consisting of three pumps and complete replacement of the electromechanical equipment. BUILD: BESIX UNITECRenovation of the Beveren TunnelAntwerp, BelgiumExtensive renovation of the structure and technical installations of the Beveren Tunnel, as well as the realisation, operations, and maintenance for three years of a water treatment plant and solar park, providing half of the tunnel's power capacity. DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX, BESIX INFRA, and BESIX UNITEC, in a consortium with STADSBADER, STADSBADER CONTRACTORS and EQUANSPotable water production plantMalmedy, BelgiumConstruction of a plant for the production of potable water and a storage facility, commissioned by the Walloon Water Company, a pioneering DBOT project in Wallonia.DESIGN, BUILD, OPERATE & TRANSFER: BESIX ENVIRONMENT in partnership with VEOLIARecyboisLatour, BelgiumExtension of the Groupe François plant, including the creation of a log storage area, a sorting and calibrating area, a new sawmill, and a cogeneration plant, as well as upgrading existing facilities and improving existing processes on a 10-hectare site.BUILD: SOCOGETRA and LUXTP for the civil engineering part Triomphe 160Brussels, BelgiumConstruction of a building to house community facilities and a crèche for the municipality of Auderghem.BUILD: JACQUES DELENS Reconversion school building HEDER Antwerp, BelgiumReconversion of a former school building into offices, where Lantis and the Oosterweel link contractors will take up residence for their 600-800 employees. BUILD: VANHOUT Renovation of the Krammer locksZeeland, The NetherlandsFor client Rijkswaterstaat, complete renovation of the four locks at the Philips dam, in Zeeland, including the revision, replacement, or modernisation of the mechanical engineering and electro-technical elements of the locks as well as the realisation of a bubble screen in the locks for the separation of salt and fresh water.DESIGN, BUILD & MAINTAIN: BESIX NEDERLAND and BESIX UNITECCogels-Osylei renovation Antwerpen, BelgiumFaçade-to-façade road renovation with demolition of the existing tram tracks, pavements, and sewers in one of Antwerp's most beautiful architectural streets.BUILD: BESIX INFRA in partnership with FRATEUR – DE POURCQRenovation of the Grand Théâtre Verviers, BelgiumOverall renovation of the façade and interior of the theatre, as well as MEP works, improving accessibility, safety, and acoustics.BUILD: WUST in partnership with DENYSConstruction of a 3.3 km road segment for ANASAncona, ItalyRealisation of a new 3.3-km stretch of highway, including two tunnels with a total length of 1,120 metres and a viaduct of 285 metres, to connect the international port of Ancona to the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica. EXECUTION DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX in a joint venture with DONATIReplacement of seven level crossings for TUC RAILBilzen, BelgiumReplacement of seven level crossings by two bridges, four tunnels, and two stretches of bicycle highway. DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX with BESIX INFRA Major cutting-edge data centreMons, BelgiumConstruction of the core and shell of a high-performance data centre in the Province of Hainaut. DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX Fifth construction project for James Cook UniversityCairns, AustraliaConstruction of phase two of the JCU Cairns Tropical Enterprise Centre at James Cook University.DESIGN & BUILD: BESIX WATPACBESIX EuropeRegional & specialised entitiesAustralia Middle East Main new contractsPost Office City Logistics CentreLezennes, FranceFoundations for the new 18,000 m² Hôtel Logistique Urbain of the French postal operator in Lezennes.BUILD: FRANKI FOUNDATIONS Construction of the Maison de la Croix Rouge Luxembourg City, Grand Duchy of LuxembourgConstruction of the new 13,400 m² low-carbon concrete building to house the Luxembourg Red Cross headquarters, for IKO Real Estate.BUILD: LUXTP & BESIX, in consortium with CLE 36 37INSIDE Magazine #119INSIDE Magazine #119NEW CONTRACTS C. Karels

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39INSIDE Magazine #11938INSIDE Magazine #119FLASHC. KarelsWhistleblowing Procedure: your secret is safeBESIX Group adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards, as reﬂected in its values and its Codes. We want to be an organisation where these professional standards are fully integrated into the workplace and into the quality of the professional relationships that the Group develops between its employees and stakeholders. Should you become aware of an actual or suspected misconduct or malpractice in violation of European Union law, in the workplace or the Group's activities in certain matters of general interest, and if you wish to report this, the Whistleblowing Procedure provides safe reporting channels, protecting you from any form of retaliation or victimisation (sanctions, dismissal, intimidation...). BESIX Group fully complies with the EU Whistleblower directive (2019/1937) and the collective labour agreement in the BESIX Group European Works Council on the protection of whistleblowers.All details on what can be reported and on how the procedure works can be found via the QR-code.BESIX certiﬁed Top Employer for the ﬁfth consecutive timeThe Top Employers Institute, a renowned authority in recognising excellence in HR and people practices, has awarded BESIX Group* the Belgian Top Employer certiﬁcation fora remarkable ﬁfth time in a row! This recognition is a huge accomplishment and a reward for the hard work and dedication of our entire BESIX team.This time we scored a fantastic 90.92 % overall, even higher than last year’s score and above the benchmark. This is also the highest score since we launched this external measurement several years ago. The label was awarded after an in-depth survey of BESIX’s HR and people practices, covering six HR domains and consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Wellbeing, and more. The certiﬁcation recognises the positive, inclusive, and safe work culture we have created, where everyone works together to achieve our goal of creating sustainable solutions for a better world. This award belongs to all of us. Collectively, we are building the company culture that earned us this recognition.Launch engagement surveyIn January, the People Department in Belgium, the Netherlands, France, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg initiated an engagement survey for blue-collar sta. The results are being processed and will be communicated after the Summer.This global, anonymous survey is organised with the support of External Occupational Health Service Mensura, and allows our sta to share their opinions on various topics, including physical and emotional workload, relations with colleagues and managers, evaluations, organisation, safety, or BESIX Culture. Mid-May, white-collar staﬀ around the world will have the opportunity to participate in a similar survey. The previous survey, conducted in 2021, achieved a 50 % participation rate. Let's surpass that this time! Don't miss the chance to express your views!Look out for an email in your mailbox!The BESIX Potential Academy celebrates its 10th anniversaryThe BESIX Potential Academy (BPA) is the ﬂagship training program of our Group. This longest-running initiative to date is dedicated to identifying and promoting promising proﬁles across our organisation. In its latest edition in November 2023, the Academy welcomed 23 participants from six countries: Belgium, The Netherlands, France, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and New Zealand. During the 7-day residential seminar, the participants - all young talents selected by management for their performance and ambitions – engaged in business courses developed in cooperation with Vlerick Business School and tailored to our Group's activity. Over the course of the seminar, participants are divided into teams, with each one taking on a business case of their choice. In the last ten years, 242 alumni presented 56 remarkable projects. A great initiative to boost young talent at BESIX!Safe and sound use of generative AIThe powerful tools of generative Artiﬁcial Intelligence (AI) are everywhere now, like ChatGPT, Dall-E, Bard, and DeepL. These technologies are evolving rapidly, oﬀering substantial aid in various domains, from creating communication resources to supporting technical projects.However, with great power comes great responsibility.In light of the Bletchley Declaration on AI Safety, signed by 27 countries in November 2023, which advocates for the safe, human-centric, trustworthy, and responsible use of AI, our expert colleagues at BESIX Group are currently working on a clear Group Policy on how to make the most of this technology while ensuring we use it safely and ethically for professional purposes. While we encourage you to explore the capabilities of generative AI, we urge you to remain mindful of the potential risks and outcomes. It is crucial to use this technology responsibly: • avoid using conﬁdential or personal information in AI prompts• always verify the accuracy of AI-generated content• steer clear of sensitive topics that AI may not handle with the required subtlety• ensure that AI-derived content does not violate any copyrights• if AI is used to produce content in an unfamiliar language, always seek veriﬁcation from a native speaker.Let's use AI wisely, ethically, and responsibly.PERSONALIAYou can access the ‘Personalia’ online via the QR codes:.Staff MovementsYears of ServiceNew ColleaguesTransfersRetired

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