Fugro brings with it a wealth of knowledge and experience of working within its arm of the geotechnical industry, knowledge that will be put to good use by the FPS in setting future standards and crafting guidance in the future.

Speaking about the new Associate Member, FPS chair Steve Hadley said: "The addition of Fugro, with its own unique sector and business perspectives, will widen further the FPS's engagement with related industries and as such they are a welcome addition to the Federation.

"Through the Associate Membership scheme, which Fugro joins, the FPS is better able to involve those outside of its direct membership, such as consultants and service providers as well as the wider supply chain such equipment suppliers. It is also better able to fully represent the piling sector, through the technical and real-world input of those its full members work alongside."

Since its launch, FPS Associate Membership has grown to include companies from almost all sectors of the wider geotechnical industry recognising that their addition strengthens the Federation's knowledge base giving it a more authoritative voice in the construction sector. It also helps the FPS lobby more effectively at both industry and government levels on issues such as health and safety, training and fair payment.