Building and Facilities News Issue 971

Lunch atop a BiG SH-ELF

New report highlights post-pandemic sign blindness threat

Leading health and safety experts are warning that the UK faces a ‘sign blindness’ epidemic as people continue to return to the workplace.

Lunch atop a BiG SH-ELF: BiGDUG recreates iconic New York Skyscraper image with a festive twist

UK’s largest shelving company recreates the iconic ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ image, with a festive twist.

▲ BiGDUG have recreated the famous New York skyline image atop one of their BiGGEST shelves

▲ Shot at Observation Point, the image shows the legendary row of worker Elves enjoying their lunch with a prominent London backdrop

Passers-by in Southwark, London caught a glimpse of a rare sight this morning, as a workforce of Elves climbed giant shelves in a bid to enjoy their morning break above the London skyline. The eleven strong troupe enjoyed festive lunch boxes with treats such as candy canes, as they took a break from their busiest time of year.

The stunt, which saw all eleven Elves snapped perched in a row, echoed the famous ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ photograph, published in the New York Herald-Tribune in 1932 (and on all value print canvasses ever made, ever since).

The festive imitation turns out to be the brainchild of industrial, workplace and homeware solutions company BiGDUG, who made headlines last year when it transformed its company headquarters into the UK’s largest advent calendar.

Polly Maclennan, PR Manager at BiGDUG said, “At BiGDUG, we are well aware that we sell pretty dull products, but just because we are functional, doesn’t mean we can’t be FUN! We love the fact that we could build our shelves high enough to recreate this iconic image, lined with our very own Elves!”

T 0333 200 5299 contact@bigdug.co.uk www.bigdug.co.uk

Recent research from the Office of National Statistics showed that 60% of adults expect to be back in their normal place of work before the end of autumn. Now, health and safety solutions provider Seton has joined forces with top academics and psychologists to review the risk that sign blindness poses with many offices reopen and manufacturing teams returning to full strength following the end of furlough.

Together, they are advising that overexposure to signage, rules and safety warnings during the pandemic is likely to lead to complacency amongst employees and a failure to register the standard safety signs in front of them.

The new report highlights that sign blindness potentially poses one of the biggest risks to workplace health and safety in decades.

As Ed Barnes, Product Innovation Manager at Seton explains, sign blindness is such a threat because we are all susceptible to it, “The human mind has a remarkable ability to interpret abstract

New

symbols, shapes and colours quickly – but we can soon become desensitised to something, even though the hazard remains the same.

“Over the last 19 months, our lives have been saturated by signage and messaging such as ‘please wear a face covering,’ ‘wash your hands regularly’ and ‘keep two metres apart.’ They have been incredibly important messages, but it's only natural that over time we become desensitised to them.”

You can read the full free report Sign Blindness: A big risk to health and safety here: https://www.seton.co.uk/sign-blindness-form.html

T 0800 316 9700 sales@seton.co.uk www.seton.co.uk

independent

research

reveals UK employees’ washroom concerns and how to resolve them

New independent research has found that the majority of employees have concerns about using a workplace washroom and has revealed the washroom improvements that they would like their employers to make.

The YouGov, UK employee research, commissioned by national washroom service provider, Elis, found that 47% of employees are concerned that the toilets will be dirty, 45% that there will be insufficient toilet paper, 45% that the washroom itself will be unhygienic or dirty and 44% that the washroom will smell unpleasant.

Only 25% of employees have no concerns about using a workplace washroom, with the under 35s more likely than any other age group to have concerns. Only 11% of this age category have no concerns about using a workplace washroom, compared to 25% of 35-44 year olds, 28% of 45-54 year olds and 34% of over 55s.

The research also revealed the improvements that employees would like made to their workplace washroom, with the introduction of no-touch soap dispensers being the change wanted by the highest number of respondents (29%).

Elis has produced a report on the research findings. Called ‘Employees’ Washroom Concerns and How to Resolve them’ it also includes advice on how businesses can improve their washrooms. The report can be downloaded free at: https://uk.elis.com/en/group/ newsroom/news/new-independentresearch-reveals-uk-employeeswashroom-concerns-and-how-resolve or bit.ly/Elis-washroom-concerns

For further information on Elis washroom services: https://campaigns.elislaundry.com/ washroom-service or call free on: 0808 1698265.

Leading distributor of tarpaulins, dust sheets and painting supplies

If you are looking for a wholesale distributer for supplies of tarpaulins, dustsheets, decorating items and a large range of refuse sack, Tristar is here to answer your needs.

Established in 1992 in Stevenage, Tristar is a family owned business, sourcing its products from Europe, India and the Far East to supply them through wholesale and multiple outlets across the UK.

The company’s wide range of tarpaulins, dust sheets, painting equipment, carpet protectors, sacks and bags, and much more, ensures you have everything you need for your next project.

With many years’ experience in the field, Tristar has earned an enviable reputation for prompt delivery, premiums quality goods and competitive prices.

You will find Tristar a company worth getting to know. For further information on Tristar’s products or to request a quote, please give them a call or send them an email.

T 01438 880178

T 01438 221009 sales@tristarltd.co.uk www.tristarltd.co.uk

Is it luck or good judgement?

Executive search consultancy for the real estate and industrial sectors Granger Reis, announces the appointment of Jamie Page as the company’s new Managing Partner and Esmeé Vermolen as head of technology and innovation (Pictured), effective immediately.

The appointments follow Granger Reis’ rapid growth, which has seen the company build its team by 40% from November 2020 to today and increase revenues by 80% over the last year. A transformational period for the company, Jamie's appointment will further Granger

Partner

Reis’ mission to create and drive full-scale disruption to the traditional executive search model, using technology to address the lack of diversity and inclusion (D&I) in executive placements and sustainable accountability within leadership teams.

Previously Managing Partner, European Industrial Team for NASDAQ listed business Heidrick & Struggles, Jamie has a thorough understanding

of the real estate and construction sector. He has extensive experience in leadership, development and innovation, having previously led the company’s Amsterdam Innovation Hub. Granger Reis’ previous Managing Partner, founder Richard Milsom, is now CEO of the company.

T +44 3448 000799

info@grangerreis.ai www.grangerreis.ai

Metrel Warehouse Manager, Alex Biddiscombe can fulfil multi-function testers on next-day delivery

“Business, as we all recover from the COVID chaos, is difficult.” said Brendan Beaver, UK Manager of Metrel, the innovative electrical solutions provider.

“Planning work is more a lottery than ever, while supplies and deliveries cannot be reliably scheduled apparently due to the aftermath of COVID, the lack of drivers and for some, a fire at a key supplier.”

“It is even harder when the company is going through the unprecedented growth we are experiencing. But excuses are no use to customers who need their new test equipment now to earn their bread. Fortunately Metrel stocks are good, our channels are well primed, and we can fulfil your needs today.”

T 01924 245000

info@metrel.co.uk

https://www.metrel.co.uk/uk

Granger Reis appoints new Managing

and head of technology and innovation

Royal recognition for our Company of the Year, Aico

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we are proud to announce that we have chosen to select Aico as our Home Safety Company of the Year.

Aico is the European market leader in home life safety and has been leading the way in Fire and Carbon Monoxide protection for over 30 years. Throughout its history, Aico has led the way in providing innovative solutions and achieved numerous industry firsts in home life safety products. Over the past 12 months, Aico has continued to be at the forefront of home life safety, utilising its 30 years’ experience in product innovation and working to deliver safer homes – Aico has recently launched its brand-new HomeLINK Environmental Sensors. The innovative product comes in two models; the Ei1020 which measures temperature and humidity and the Ei1025 which measures temperature, humidity and Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Both models are designed to create better maintained, healthier and more energyefficient homes. The sensors are unobtrusive and secure and can be placed throughout the home to monitor indoor environmental conditions.

The Environmental Sensors provide actionable insights into conditions such as mould risk, draught risk, excess cold, heat loss and indoor air quality.

The sensors align with Aico’s drive to support sustainability through the provision of solutions that are environmentally friendly and designed to reduce carbon footprint throughout the industry.

Insights from the HomeLINK Environmental Sensors on indoor environmental conditions allow for preventative measures and proactive maintenance, promoting wellbeing. This is also greatly beneficial for landlords to adhere to requirements outlined in Standards and Legislation, such as the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 and the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing.

The Environmental Sensors work together with Aico’s revolutionary Ei1000G SmartLINK Gateway, an alarm management system suitable for every landlord to help reduce costs and improve efficiency. Providing many benefits, the Ei1000G SmartLIINK Gateway is designed to make monitoring and maintaining alarm systems across housing stock easier, more proactive and solution focused. The SmartLINK Gateway extracts data from both Fire and Carbon Monoxide alarm systems and Environmental Sensors. Through the online HomeLINK dashboard, users can view detailed property and portfolio data, segmented by high, medium and low risk. By collating all data into one place, landlords can benefit from increased efficiency and improved asset management.

As resident engagement is a crucial focus for Aico, the company has developed the HomeLINK Resident App, specifically designed for the Environmental Sensors in order to empower residents. Through this app, residents are provided with personalised, user-friendly

data and insight into their home health through an overall rating, temperature, humidity and CO2 data and handy advice on the measures they can take to improve the quality of their home, including alarm testing reminders.

In addition to its recent, successful product launch, Aico received royal recognition from Her Royal Highness Princess Anne on Friday 8th October, in acknowledgement of its impact as a prominent business in Shropshire. Neal Hooper, Aico’s Managing Director, had the pleasure of welcoming Her Royal Highness to Aico’s headquarters in Oswestry, Shropshire, alongside local dignitaries Mandy Thorn, Deputy Lieutenant of Shropshire, Councillor Vince Hunt, Chairman of Shropshire Council, Owen Paterson, North Shropshire MP, Councillor Mark Jones, Mayor of Oswestry and Ruth Jones, Mayoress of Oswestry.

Her Royal Highness embarked on an in-depth tour of Aico’s building and facilities and then received a brief insight into the company history. Neal explained Aico’s pioneering innovations within home life safety and the company’s award-winning Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Princess Anne was delighted to learn about the company’s ethos around education, quality, service and innovation and how it inputs back into the community to make homes a safer environment. To show its appreciation for the recognition, Aico presented Her Royal Highness with a gift of a horse headcollar, adorned with an Aico monogram. A highlight of the royal visit was when Her Royal Highness unveiled a commemorative plaque that

currently resides in Aico’s dramatic atrium.

CSR is at the core of Aico’s ethos, and the company has a dedicated initiative, ‘Aico in the Community,’ to drive the delivery of its mission statement of promoting best practice and engaging with communities to deliver safer homes. Developed in 2018, Aico in the Community aims to provide support to both local and national educational and charitable organisations in building sustainable futures for our communities. Since its conception, the programme has been a great success and has grown significantly, with Aico colleagues providing practical, hands-on support through volunteering and fundraising activities as well as the company’s charitable donations.

Aico continually strive to innovate and drive the industry forwards, meeting the needs of its customers in novel ways, aligning with sustainability targets while placing community and wellbeing at the heart.

For more information, see below:

T 01691 664100 enquiries@aico.co.uk www.aico.co.uk

Landscape & External Works News

Survey, manage, improve

Barnes Associates Ltd was established in 1989 as a partnership between Ian Barnes and Sue Higgins. The company was originally set up as a tree surgery and landscaping company and has expanded significantly, becoming limited company based upon consultancy services only based in Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire.

Barnes Associates Ltd provides tree surveys for development BS5837, tree surveys risk assessments, advanced tree assessments, tree health and safety reports, tree preservation orders TPO advice, tree reports for mortgages/ insurance, legal advice, landscape design and management.

Providing its services on a national scale, Ian Barnes is an Arboricultural Association Registered Consultant and the company is a landscape institute registered practice and has a wide range of experience in green infrastructure, offering technical solutions to near tree developments. As a leading

consultancy, Barnes Associates Ltd provide a comprehensive range of tree surveying works, from one tree in a domestic garden through to large country estates comprising of over 1,000 trees.

Barnes Associates Ltd offers a plethora of service benefits, from advanced assessments to tree diagnostics. In addition, the company can provide an import service for specialist equipment, which is then used to train UK tree surveyors. In terms of benefits for its clients, the company provides a full suite of assessments from vitality tests, tree root radar scans, sonic

Slowing the sands of time

The global sand industry is running out of time and the UK landscaping market needs to seek appropriate alternatives or see profits slip through the cracks.

50 billion tonnes of aggregate are used every year1, and global population growth, urbanisation and development are driving large increases in international demand for sand and other aggregates. This is resulting in not only the disappearance of riverbeds and shorelines worldwide, but an escalating trade in black market sand and increased sand piracy. As Pascal Peduzzi, a researcher with the United Nations Environment Programme, says, “We cannot extract 50 billion tonnes per year of any material without leading to massive impacts on the planet and thus on people’s lives.”

directly to the sub-base, while block paving can be laid on a thin layer of bedding sand. Made from 100% recycled plastic, EASYClickBase has the

and electronic tomography, and stability testing of trees.

A notable, and one of its latest services is the ‘Tree Radar.’ Through the use of its Ground Penetrating Radar system, Tree Radar can detect tree roots as small as 1cm through any surface effortlessly. The data is mapped and scaled to the surrounding area and a full report with images, technical date and recommendations of best practice is delivered to the client as a full report with images, technical data and recommendations of best practice in moving forward.

In regards to the company’s latest developments, Barnes Associates Ltd has

potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of landscaping projects.

The combination of cost savings and eco credentials couldn’t come at a better time. In a recent webinar titled ‘Consumer Trends in a PostPandemic World,’ trend analysts Scarlet Opus suggested the environmental movement has been brought forward 5+ years in consumers’ minds3 Whilst we may never be able to completely halt the hourglass on the use of sand and aggregates, new innovations like EASYClickBase may help us slow the tide to a trickle for the landscaping industry.

T +44 (0)1473 760777 info@azpects.co.uk www.azpects.co.uk

recently added to its workforce by hiring new surveyors. To increase its capacity, the company has recently moved to a larger office, this location offers more storage to facilitate its ever-growing technical equipment and training facilities.

After the impact of COVID-19, Barnes Associates Ltd has evolved like many workplaces and changed its working approach to use a hybrid system to enable flexibility for its workers. Working partly in the office, out on site and from home, Barnes Associates Ltd has responded efficiently to the challenges presented by COVID-19 and enhanced flexibility and safety for its employees.

As the company looks ahead, Barnes Associates Ltd is working on in-house training CPD’s, which will eventually allow the company to provide training courses to other companies to help them improve upon and enhance their knowledge.

For more information on the company, please see the details below:

T 01423 322371 info@barnesassociates.co.uk www.barnesassociates.co.uk

1) https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20191108-why-the-worldis-running-out-of-sand

2) Figures are approximate and dependent on site conditions.

3) https://gima.org.uk/events/webinar-scarlet-opus

Awareness of the global sand crisis is escalating, and scientists worldwide are finding solutions to replace sand in concrete with other materials. The construction and landscaping industry will always require sand and aggregate to build safely; however, we should seek to reduce our use of these primary resources and think outside the box when it comes to decreasing our dependence on aggregates.

Azpects Ltd has been working on a solution to the aggregate problem when creating patios, paths, and driveways. Their new product, EASYClickBase, is a synthetic sub-base which replaces the traditional ‘dig-out’ part of the creation process, saving time, money and –importantly – aggregate. Early feedback suggests that for a 50m2 domestic vehicular driveway

EASYClickBase reduces excavation by 75% and replacement aggregate by 80%2

EASYClickBase replaces the traditional full mortar laying bed, reducing the need for sand and cement in that phase of installation. Thin surface dressings, such as porcelain tiles, can be glued

The changing climate of water conservation

In the UK, water conservation has been on the agenda and largely dismissed by the public for years. Our growing population combined with increased demand through lifestyle choices, is going to result in critical water situations more regularly, particularly in the driest parts of the country.

Anticipating the future issues, Groundbreaker Systems has been committed to mitigating water waste and overuse for two decades. Established by water industry specialists, Groundbreaker have developed products that minimise environmental impact, improve efficiency, and future proof water supply installations.

Groundbreaker: Modern methods

Groundbreaker is most widely known for the surface mounted water control management system. An alternative to traditional, underground boundary boxes, Groundbreaker removes unsightly street furniture, and relocates the water meter to the exterior of the property (often alongside gas and electric meter housings).

The initial objective was to enable ‘no joint’ water supply connections. The majority of water leaks begin at joints in the supply pipes, so joint free connections minimise the risk of future leaks, the associated water wastage and environmental impact of repair and reinstatement. This future proofing of the water network has been recognised by water companies and Portsmouth Water now insist on this method of supply connection.

Keeping up with UK domestic housing demand is an ongoing challenge and it has been recognised by government and the industry, that offsite construction methods are going to need to be more widely used to meet construction targets. Groundbreakers’ water management system is ideal for modern methods of construction, allowing plumbing systems to be preinstalled and inspected, off site. This takes the water supply connection out of the construction critical path, effectively providing a ‘plug and play’ solution.

Groundbreaker: A new approach

Traditionally water supply pipes were buried below ground, to insulate the pipe and prevent ‘freeze thaw’ bursts and leakage. Groundbreakers’ Insuduct is an insulated ducting, that provides thermal insulation to pipes. This allows a water supply pipes to run along the exterior of a building and was initially used exclusively with the Groundbreaker water management system.

The realisation of the full impact of lead on child brain development, highlighted the importance of removing lead piping from domestic supply and the ground and Groundbreakers’ Insuduct established a new market. Despite the risks, residents were reluctant to replace the old lead supply pipes, due to the mess and disruption. Using Groundbreakers’ Insuduct the supply replacement could be completed in under two hours, minimising the impact on the customer, the cost and environmental impact. So, enabling the ramping up of lead supply replacement programmes in the UK.

Groundbreaker: Reducing demand

In the UK water services are cheap and we never have true rationing of supply (the occasional hose pipe ban just doesn’t count). For just a few pounds, domestic customers can have a tonne of high-quality drinking water delivered to their taps, then taken away and cleaned up. Although the financial cost of supplying and cleaning water is relatively low, the environmental impact isn’t – 40gm of carbon for each 1m3, whether that’s making it ready for consumption or to return it to the environment. To

reduce the environmental impact of water usage Defra set a target of reducing the average personal daily consumption from 143L to 110L by 2050.

Whilst metering of supply has been shown to have an impact on usage, the average UK consumer is not ‘water aware.’

The experience of the power/energy industries is that ‘smart metering’ improves customer awareness and consumption. Water however, has a legacy of unmetered supplies and most of the meters that are installed are located below ground. This creates a major problem for the connectivity of ‘smart water meters.’ Groundbreaker enables meters to be located above ground, providing a suitable environment for electronic equipment and massively extends the connectivity range.

Consumer awareness campaigns have been shown to have limited long-term impact – let’s face it ‘it’s always raining in Britain.’ So…. If we can’t change mindset, change the supply

Our water companies are regulated to provide a minimum level of water, but in many areas due to network structure and gravity fed systems supply is much greater. So, run a hose for five minutes at the bottom of the hill, and your lawn will be greener that the gardener that does the same at the top. These ‘time controlled’ uses, e.g. teeth cleaning, taking a shower, running a tap to rise dishes could be standardised down if all households received the same acceptable, ‘standardised’ supply.

Defra’s target is a 33L per capital reduction. Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo is a surprisingly simple method of working towards that target. Independent research carried out by WRc, showed a theoretical reduction of 2-4% of typical water usage. However, recent field trials by a major UK water company are showing reductions in excess of 37L per day (for one or two person households) – a saving in per capita consumption in excess of 10%

NRv2 LoFlo modulates the level of flow entering customer premises – regardless of network pressure, meaning a reduction in the level of water used by customers when

‘variable use’ appliances (i.e. showers, taps, hosepipes) are used. As the flow of water into the premises is limited, then the amount used by the customer is also limited – but without providing a degradation of service, and more importantly not requiring any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, leading to ‘natural’ reduction in per capital consumption.

A number of flow modulation ranges are available which enable the perfect balance between usage reduction and service provision. As an added benefit, the NRv2 LoFlo can also provide whole site protection against contamination by back flow.

The NRv2 LoFlo can be easily and simply retrofitted to any meter installation, or meter exchange when upgrading or remediating underground meter chambers. Thus, allowing the management of demand with little or no impact on consumers and at minimal cost – effectively a 3 in 1 solution.

Groundbreaker products are compliant with all Regulations and defined criteria and are used extensively across the whole of the UK water supply network – whether that be North of Scotland or the Channel Islands.

For full product information: www.groundbreaker.co.uk

T 01379 741993 sales@groundbreaker.co.uk

Lindapter fire rated Decking

Fixings

Independently fire tested connection solutions for securing building services systems to composite metal decking.

To provide specifiers with additional confidence, Lindapter commissioned BRE Global to run third party fire tests in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-2 on a range of Decking Fixings installed in concrete backed composite decking profiles. The BRE test report P116310 Issue 1 verifies load limits for 60 minute and 90 minute fire ratings.

Lindapter’s extensive range of high quality, cost effective decking fixings are conveniently installed by locking inside the dovetail re-entrant channels of popular composite decking profiles. This innovative technique provides an adjustable fixing point for suspending mechanical and electrical equipment that is fast to install and does not compromise the strength of the deck.

Lindapter’s decking fixings are manufactured from steel and iron which are listed in Commission Decision 96/603/EC as materials that make ‘no contribution to fire’ and are considered as Class A1 Reaction to Fire Performance without the need for additional fire safety testing.

In addition to the above, Lindapter’s range of decking fixings are also considered to satisfy the requirements of performance Class A1 (noncombustible) for the characteristic Reaction to Fire, in accordance with the EC decision 96/603/EC.

More information on Lindapter products and their fire ratings can be found on the company’s new website: www.lindapter.com

Chubb highlights the importance of regular fire door inspections

Chubb, a leading provider of fire safety and security solutions, is raising awareness of the importance of conducting regular fire door inspections to maintain the overall fire safety of a building. Chubb is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), the leading global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. Checking and inspecting fire doors is an integral part of Chubb’s portfolio of fire solutions designed to prevent, detect, and contain fires while enabling people time to safely evacuate.

Everyday use of fire doors can result in damage to the door and its surroundings, which can affect the performance of the door in the event of a fire. Chubb offers a comprehensive audit of fire doors for businesses and landlords in the UK, helping them maintain safe environments and conform to the latest fire safety legislation.

Fire door inspections are carried out by a competent fire assessor who will carefully inspect internal doors, checking each door’s structural integrity, the furniture and mechanisms for faults, damage or wear. The assessor will provide a report detailing any remedial work required and information and photographs of any nonconformities.

Fire safety legislation for England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland highlights the legal responsibilities of reducing the risk of fire spreading within a premises. Fire doors play an important part in reducing this risk in many buildings. Penalties for failing to comply with the legislation carry unlimited fines or a prison sentence for organisations and landlords.

Chubb’s Fire Door Inspections are available to all businesses in the UK. To find out more, visit: www.chubb.co.uk/firedoors

Norton Clipper squashes construction equipment shortages trend with a new range of compactors

Abrasives specialist Norton Clipper has launched its brand new range of compactors with the aim of working against the equipment shortage currently facing the UK construction industry.

The unfortunate combination of Brexit and COVID has seen companies and individuals in all industries experience shortages in materials, equipment and supplies. However, since the housing market boom and the government’s announcement of its £27 billion road-building programme in March

of last year, construction equipment – and compactors in particular – are in high demand. To combat this, Norton Clipper’s new launch is available specifically for the UK market.

Designed to tackle soil, clay, asphalt, mixed stone and pavers with ease, the range includes two types of compactors: the CFP (forward only) and CRP, which can compact a larger surface area and be operated in both forward and reverse directions with minimal effort from the user.

Specifically designed with the operator in mind, Norton Clipper’s compactor range offers easy manoeuvrability and a flawless finish. Foldable handles and removable transport wheels provide easy storage and minimise the space required in transit, while lifting and handle points are easily accessible to prioritise safe handling.

For more information on the Norton Clipper compactor range, visit: https://bit.ly/2ZydFHt

T 01785 279553

https://www.nortonabrasives.com/en-gb

Hörmann UK launch apprenticeship scheme

August, is working towards the Level 2 Engineering Operative apprenticeship standard. He will spend two years on the scheme, splitting his time between studying at college for his academic qualification and working on-site with Service Engineer Matt Irons, his mentor and father (pictured).

Folding sliding door system with corner option

young people the opportunity to work alongside knowledgeable, experienced staff and acquire jobspecific skills.”

Working together with SMB College Group at their Stephenson Campus in Coalville, Hörmann UK have introduced an apprenticeship scheme to train and educate the next generation of industrial service engineers, whilst providing young people with valuable realworld experience in the workplace.

The first apprentice Callum Irons, who joined Hörmann in early

Phil Clark, Industrial Service Manager at Hörmann UK comments, “Training has always been a priority at Hörmann, and we have always provided comprehensive training for the industry, strengthened by the launch of the Hörmann Academy in 2019. The introduction of an apprenticeship scheme further enhances this commitment and is a natural extension to our training plans which enables us to offer

The apprenticeship scheme is designed to provide a structured training and work programme, which will provide the necessary experience and knowledge required to become a skilled Hörmann Service Engineer. Callum will have the opportunity to be involved in the service and repair of the most advance doors and loading technology throughout the industrial market.

For further information on Hörmann UK’s visit: https:// www.hormann.co.uk/industrycommerce-and-public-authorities or call: 01530 516868.

HOPPE: Specify antimicrobial hardware to actively fight bacteria

Door handles are breeding grounds for bacteria. Often subject to high use, by multiple people, in environments such as hospitals, schools, care homes and offices. Alongside regular cleaning regimes, there are passive measures people can take.

SecuSan® is an antibacterial and antimicrobial surface for door and window handles, that ensures high hygiene standards in busy buildings.

Benefits of SecuSan® at a glance:

▲ Maintenance and wear-free on a long-term basis

▲ Actively fights bacteria from the moment of installation

▲ Covered by HOPPE’s 10-year operational guarantee

▲ Reduces microbial growth by more than 99%

▲ Tested and certified to JIS Z 2801:2000 and ISO 22196:2011 standards.

Specified for use in the NHS

Nightingale North West, SecuSan® immediately suppresses the

growth of pathogens on the handle and independent tests have proved that SecuSan® reduces microbial growth by more than 99%. The maintenance-free surface can be applied to a range of popular HOPPE handle designs, all available in aluminium silver and stainless steel. It is also covered by HOPPE’s 10-year operational guarantee that applies to all HOPPE door and window handles.

T 01902 484400

andy.matthews@hoppe.com

www.hoppe.com/gb-en/handleof-excellence/hoppe-brandquality/secusan

Creating a link between house and garden has never been easier with Kestrel’s new Corner Folding Sliding Door developed from the PAS24 accredited Folding Sliding Door System. With structural steel to support the top of the building, the complete corner of the room can be swept away using the slimline moving corner post to give even greater access to the outdoors.

Features include multipoint locking and shoot bolts as standard. A choice of slimline handle styles is also available to ensure neat door

stacking and effective use of space. In addition to an extensive range of powder-coated colour choices, dual colours can also be selected.

To find out more about Kestrel Aluminium’s Folding Sliding Door system, please visit:

www.kestrelaluminim.co.uk

T 0121 333 3575 info@kestrelaluminium.co.uk

Eighty Grosvenor Street is a great example of how a historic building can be reimagined

Eighty Grosvenor Street is set in the heart of the art district in London’s prestigious Mayfair not far from Bond Street. It is an excellent example of how an existing historic building can be reimagined for modern use. Behind the traditional façade sits a contemporary structure that belies the age of the original buildings on the site. Originally, three individual period townhouses, the building has been transformed into a single structure spanning five upper storeys with private terraces. Working with Orms Architects and Kier Construction, George Barnsdale was appointed to manufacture and install the timber windows to the front of the building where the Georgian aesthetic needed to be retained as part of the conservation area. Having worked on a number of Grosvenor Estate properties, George Barnsdale’s experience and knowledge proved invaluable to the design process.

Tilt and turn and Juliet Balcony tilt and turn windows were made to match the originals. Commenting, Kathryn Knowles, Architect said, “In the design process, we were looking to achieve a bespoke framing element to ensure that we captured the

existing window profiles which were originally on the retained façade. Barnsdale were very accommodating and assisted in making sure we achieved the retained façade replication.”

Contact Tracy Pomfret, Head of Marketing, T 01775 823000 tpomfret@georgebarnsdale.co.uk www.georgebarnsdale.co.uk

Building Products & Services News

Quality bespoke joinery

Bluerun is a family owned and run company that was established in 1991 by its current Managing Director, John Jones. Accompanied by his wife Doreen, Company Secretary, Bluerun has established itself at the forefront of the industry.

Classed as a bespoke joinery manufacturer, Bluerun can manufacture most things from timber, hardwood, softwood, panels and sheet material. Ensuring complete customer satisfaction, Bluerun custom makes all its products made to order and are not available pre-made.

From its workshop based in Essex, Bluerun serves a large number of commercial clients with their joinery needs. The majority of its production is produced for

the building and manufacturing industries, boasting a product portfolio from large scale repeat production runs of windows, frames and doors, to both large and small scale custom internal and external projects.

In the past Bluerun has had the opportunity to manufacture joinery for large scale projects collaborating with Brent Cross Shopping Centre and Ellesmere Port for multiplex cinema and shopping centre fitouts and interior fitouts for large brand names such as Homebase. Bluerun also has a large amount of experience in routinely manufacturing bars and reception counters for hospitals, offices, schools, pubs and restaurants. Furthermore, Bluerun works alongside main contractors to supply bespoke shop fronts to which it has worked with the likes of Starbucks and Waitrose for these types of projects.

Bluerun’s high quality joinery meets the exact standards of conservation areas and heritage sites. Its multifaceted service means its joiners hold the capabilities to produce both new and modern styles as well as traditional and historical designs. A good example of Bluerun’s versatility was when it adapted its services to produce a 10-metre-high oak hardwood catapult for Stansted Mountfitchet Castle. Bluerun can also provide a number of bespoke joinery services to the domestic sectors, from custom replacement doors and windows to bespoke furniture. Offering the replacement of windows and doors to match any period home, Bluerun can also create decking, balcony balustrading, gazebos, replacement stairs, banisters and mouldings, or bespoke cabinets and bookcases for inside the home. One notable project was when Bluerun was asked to produce a custom designed Wendy

House for a private client.

The company’s well equipped 7,000 sq. ft factory enables its team of highly experienced and qualified joiner machinists to manufacture nearly any client’s request.

From long run jobs to one off projects, the company’s capabilities stretch as far as the client’s drawings and specifications allow.

Additionally, Bluerun has an experienced spray operative in charge of a modern spray paint and lacquer facility that enables articles to leave the factory in a fully finished state, ready for installation on site. Its own delivery service is then used to deliver goods directly to site where its team of fitters are available to complete the job.

For more information and a free quotation, please see below:

T 01799 599995

dee@bluerunltd.co.uk

www.bluerunltd.co.uk

Matt & Callum Irons

Say

goodbye to leaky wastes with the Epson Basin Mate!

Epson, who are part of TYDE, are proud to announce the launch of their all-new LeakFree basin waste seal kit called the Basin Mate.

Installing basin wastes has never been so easy! All of Epson’s basin wastes now come complete with the LEAK-FREE basin mate seal kit. The Basin Mate Seal Kit is manufactured from high quality materials and includes a sealing ring, washer and seating – everything you need for a quick and easy installation.

Epson are committed to supplying market leading products to the plumbing industry. As a UK manufacturer they have complete control from design through to production and are always focused on offering the best customer service to their customers. The Epson range of wastes offers the best choice when it comes to quality and style.

Paul Weddle the Business Unit Director for TYDE says, “The Basin Mate is easy and quick to fit and is the perfect solution to avoiding leaking wastes.” EPSON is part of TYDE. A Thomas Dudley Business.

You can visit the new TYDE website at: www.thomasdudley.co.uk/tyde

Is there a better alternative to automated meter reading?

Automated meter reading for monitoring consumption of water and electricity (sub-metering) provides better data visibility than conventional analogue meters that are read manually. Meters that must be read manually can be particularly problematic if they are difficult to access or their location is unknown. Customers dislike bills that are based on estimates because the meter has not been read.

Even where meters are read regularly, whether that is annually, quarterly, or monthly, patterns of consumption and trends can be hard to identify. In contrast, automated meter reading (AMR) systems providing half-hourly readings give a far better picture of consumption that enables usage patterns to be analysed – but is the information reliable and can it be relied on for accurate billing?

Cost-effective solution

Fortunately, there is another way to improve access to water and electricity consumption data, and the same technology will be available for gas meters soon.

Deer Technology’s LimpetReader is a cost-effective, battery-powered opto-electronic device that attaches to the meter’s faceplate with optical tape or adhesive. Installation takes around 10 minutes, with no need to dismantle the meter or interrupt the supply and the meter’s register remains visible should a visual read be necessary. Dual-register meters are fitted with two LimpetReaders to capture readings from both registers. The LimpetReader is battery-powered, maintenance-free, and immune to drift because it simply reads the value displayed by the meter. If a LimpetReader was removed or tampered with, this would be identifiable from the data output. Find out more about Deer Technology’s LimpetReader for converting analogue meters to smart meters or for use alongside smart metering at: 01639 363146 or email: hello@deertechnology.com.

Armatherm create thermal bridging solutions to reduce cold bridge within the building envelope

Armatherm™ is one of the leading suppliers of structural thermal break materials for the construction industry. Providing architects, structural engineers and building design professionals with effective solutions to prevent thermal bridging, Armatherm™ is present in both the UK and USA.

Armatherm™ was initially produced by Armadillo Ltd as a response to an EU initiative which set out to improve the energy performance of buildings even further.

Armadillo Ltd recognised that thermal bridging is a significant contributing factor in building envelope heat loss. Armatherm™ 500 thermal break material (TIM) range was designed to significantly reduce energy lost

from thermal bridging in building envelope connections and can also be used on Tekla products.

Armatherm™ structural thermal break materials can be provided to a variety of specifications to minimise heat loss. This makes it suitable for any building envelope applications including balconies, canopies, parapets, masonry shelf angles and cladding connections.

The Armatherm™ Thermal Break plugin can now be used for Tekla Structures. The Armatherm™ component details the Armatherm™ FRR structural thermal break material that has been used in thousands of structural steel framing

connections across the construction industry as a thermally separate structural connection.

By transferring load in moment and shear conditions, it provides a combination of low thermal conductivity and high compressive strength at the same time.

For more information, see below: T 01274 015289 info@armatherm.com www.armatherm.co.uk

Leaders in innovative pump and water boosting solutions

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we are proud to announce that we have selected Stuart Turner as our Water Pump Solutions Company of the month.

Stuart Turner is the UK’s leading manufacturer of pump and water boosting solutions, who has established an enviable reputation for product quality, reliability, innovation and outstanding customer service. With a vast history, the company was established in 1906 by Sidney Marmaduke Stuart Turner and since its inception, Stuart Turner has continuously maintained its ethos of being at the forefront of its industry as the best at what they do.

“We are manufacturers of pumps and pump systems for water boosting, HVAC, drainage and sewage and water transportation. Our products deliver premium solutions for improved water supply – improving the experience of everyday water usage across a range of applications. Our aim of ‘powering water for all applications’ and recent acquisitions has positioned us as a go-to for pump solutions, regardless of the application,” mentioned Morgan Warren Ross, Marketing Director.

Stuart Turner is internationally recognised as the quality provider of water boosting solutions for a wide range of sectors, offering unrivalled support and a renowned reputation for reliability. Stuart Turner’s brands are specifically designed and developed to provide a comprehensive range of solutions, providing solution for everything from a simple domestic shower pump to large water boosting systems for commercial and industrial projects.

Through its decades of engineering experience and in-depth knowledge, Stuart Turner ensures all of its products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards, which has helped to position them as being the most reliable on the market. Stuart Turner continuously invests in its design engineering and manufacturing capabilities, placing the company firmly at the forefront of technology and product innovation. Furthermore, although most projects can be satisfied by using the company’s standard range of products, Stuart

Turner’s unique design and manufacturing capabilities, combined with its unrivalled technical expertise, enables Stuart Turner to be able to provide bespoke solutions.

In terms of Stuart Turner’s recent developments, the company has seen significant growth with the acquisitions of Mikrofill Systems Ltd and Fluid Water Solutions.

“Mikrofill and Fluid Water have strengthened our position in the commercial cold water boosting and HVAC arenas. Many installers know us for shower pumps, but more commercial products is where the bulk of the recent developments have occurred,” added Morgan.

Mikrofill is a UK, innovative designer and manufacturer of commercial heating equipment. The company has built a reputation on high quality products, reliability and customer service, supported by its over 25 years of UK manufacturing experience. Its range of products include: commercial condensing boilers ranging from 70-130KW wall hung and 350-550KW floor standing, extreme hot water loading systems, dosing pots, pressurisation equipment and the new Velocity booster set range.

With a commitment to quality, Mikrofil offers on-site assessments and CIBSE accredited CPD presentations and is committed to ensuring that all of its products are geared towards energy efficiency and

always satisfy and exceed the most stringent environmental requirements.

Fluid Water Solutions is a UK manufacturer of standard and bespoke water boosting solutions and independent specialists in cold water booster sets, water booster sets, booster sets, home booster sets and associated pressure sets, to the building services industry.

Using the latest technology manufactured to the highest quality standards, Fluid Water Solutions provide the most reliable solutions and all of its products are designed and manufactured to exacting UK standards. The Fluid Water Solutions name is synonymous with quality and the company continually strives to build and improve upon this reputation. With quality in mind, the company ensures that all of its standard and bespoke booster systems and ancillaries are designed and manufactured inside its ISO 9001:2008 quality controlled facility.

After the recent implications of the COVID19 pandemic, through the difficulties faced during lockdowns, Stuart Turner has seen

positive results in its digital maturity across the business. Morgan added, “Our processes and systems have undergone a significant review and we’ve been able to deliver a number of improvements across the group. Overall, the construction industry has faced uncertainty, our ability to react quickly to the challenges we faced have held us in a strong position.”

In terms of the future, Stuart Turner plans to continue expanding upon its dominating industry presence and further develop its position in the commercial product landscape and HVAC industry.

For any further information on the company, please see the details featured below:

T +44 (0)1491 572655 info@stuart-turner.co.uk

www.stuart-turner.co.uk

www.mikrofill.com

www.fluidwater.co.uk

Utility Sealing Systems Company of the Month

The UK’s only DOYMA distributor

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we are pleased to announce Service Sealing Solutions Ltd as our Utility Sealing Systems Company of the Month.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd is the sole UK distributor for the sealing industry’s top manufacturers DOYMA, FRANK and HKD. Service Sealing Solutions Ltd specialises in high-quality service duct sealing systems for utility services and watertight seals. The company offers a high level of expertise for developers and specifiers requiring sealing against water and gas ingress around service entries in basements and high-rise buildings.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd use the best in German engineering to seal penetration points through walls and floors, to permanently prevent any infiltration of gases and water into a building. This process ensures strong preventative measures against structural damage. Service Sealing Solutions Ltd distribute the industry’s most renowned manufacturers, offering a vast range of products and solutions for its customers.

DOYMA is a leading manufacturer of sealing and fire protection systems and operates in three main industries of civil engineering, building services technology and power supply. DOYMA products provide the highest level of safety when sealing

buildings where pipes and electrical cables pass through. DOYMA products are practical, innovative solutions for sealing and fire systems and are designed with an end goal to create safe building penetrations for pipes and cables that seal off fire, gas and water.

The Curaflex® by DOYMA is a full faced gasket suitable for use in sleeves or alternatively inserted directly into waterproofed concrete core bores. Its main usage is to seal many types of services including water, gas, electrical, waste and district heating. Its unique Double Profile System (DPS) generates a differential contact pressure by means of profiled sealing frames and caters for a larger sealing surface. Additional to its unique grip, The Curaflex®

PT2500

Bradshaw has announce the launch of its all new state of the art The PT2500, a fully electric, remote-controlled, pedestrian-operated tow tractor designed for moving articulated lorry trailers up to 25 tonnes in manufacturing and distribution applications.

Overview

The PT2500 is a powerful, robust, high performance articulated trailer mover. It is easy to operate and moves trailers safely with exceptional manoeuvrability, negating the need for terminal tractors. The high-performance electric motors can tow up to 25 tonnes, and the hydraulically powered column lift can hoist up to 6,000kg. The remote-control functionality provides enhanced flexibility, manoeuvrability, and safety and optimally uses limited space. Simple to operate and low maintenance, the PT2500 is an ideal partner for anyone working in logistics and distribution.

Enhanced visibility & manoeuvrability

The remote-controlled PT2500 allows trailers to be shunted safely and efficiently with no strain to the operator. Providing excellent visibility from any angle, the PT2500 and its remote control functionality let the operator walk around the trailer during manoeuvres, making them completely visible and the ability to be their own banksman, all from a safe distance. Connecting the PT2500 to the fifth wheel is quick and easy, thanks to its precise manoeuvring abilities.

Space-saving

With superior manoeuvrability, the PT2500 is ideal where space is a premium, presenting outstanding turning capabilities compared with terminal tractors. The PT2500 accesses tight spaces, turning almost on itself and allowing trailers to be parked tightly, thereby optimising limited space.

Remote control

Controlled via the MLTX2 bellybox transmitter, the system incorporates the latest electronic technology in a lightweight, comfortably contoured, and durable case. Easy to use, the angled lever controls enhance operator comfort. The remote-control housing is constructed from supertough nylon to withstand shock, and the IP66-rated sealed unit can withstand harsh industrial conditions. Synthesised frequency generation enhances reliability for a robust and

caters for excellent and permanent sealing of the gasket inserts. DPS distributes the pressure intelligently in comparison to conventional gasket inserts.

Also available is Curaflex Nova® gasket inserts, which are a safe solution for the sealing of all common services, and suitable against pressing and non-pressing water. The unique Integrated Torque Limiter (ITL) principle guarantees the correct torque when the gasket inserts are tightened. Optimal contact pressure is achieved by using extremely slip-resistant and highly aging-resistant EPDM elastomer between the frame ring type. All Curaflex Nova® frame rings are made of a special nonconductive high-performance plastic, which prevents electrochemical corrosion.

A relatively young business, Service Sealing Solutions Ltd was only established in 2018 and is already well versed within the industry. Offering a 25-year watertight guarantee on all its products, Service Sealing Solutions Ltd ensures top quality s service and products that surpasses that of its competitors. As the company looks toward the future, its main aim is to continue to grow and further its reach into new markets. “We’ve seen a steady turn over each year with no down turn, so mostly we will be continuing this success and looking at new markets such as the district heating market, which is a big and growing market for us,” stated Tina McAra, Managing Director. The company will also see an addition to its team, with the appointment of Tina’s husband, to support Tina and the company further, through his role as a Director.

For more information, please see below:

T 01952 510050 sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk

Warehouse, Storage & Logistics News

reliable signal. The access code system provides peace of mind, as the signal only operates the intended equipment. Designed to minimise power consumption, the NiMH battery packs provide longer life between charges. The PT2500 remote comes with two battery packs, one for the remote control and a backup; both can be charged on the vehicle.

Braking systems

The PT2500 features a built-in air compressor system to operate trailer brakes utilising a dual-air brake system via the service and emergency air lines. When the tractor brakes are activated, the trailer service brakes are also activated and vice versa. The trailer mover features an e-stop; if the e-stop on either vehicle or remote is activated, this will dump the air, activating the emergency trailer brakes. A speed limiter controlled via a pressure sensor on the mast hydraulics activates when operating the fifth wheel, reducing the vehicle's speed during coupling. The vehicle also features electronic regenerative braking under deceleration and dynamic speed-sensing to prevent over speeding. An automatically applied transmission parking brake ensures the vehicle remains stationary when not in use.

Fully electric

The robust and powerful high-performance trailer mover features an 80-volt AC controller,

and the high-capacity 80v 210Ah lead-acid batteries provide high initial torque and smooth acceleration. Fully electric, the PT2500 is a sustainable, environment-friendly, and costeffective alternative to diesel shunters. Producing zero emissions and no exhaust fumes, the articulated trailer mover can be used indoors for a healthier working environment. In addition, the PT2500 lorry tug is silent to operate, making night and early morning operations possible, especially close to residential areas. In the absence of a combustion engine and fewer moving mechanical parts, the PT2500 is straightforward and cost-effective to maintain.

Cost efficiencies

Developed for logistics and distribution, the PT2500 trailer mover has been designed to aid 24-hour operations. Negating the need for an HGV driver to be on-site, the remote-controlled technology means articulated trailer movement can be a one-person function. Anyone with operator training can operate the vehicle without an HGV licence.

T 01780 782621

enquiries@bradshawev.com

www.bradshawev.com

Twitter @Bradshaw_EV

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ bradshaw-electric-vehicles

Wallplanner 2022

Historic Metalwork Conservation Company Ltd

Helping conserve our nation’s heritage

• Complete conservation reports

Condition Reports

• Specifications for conservation work Small scale conservation work

• Collections care regimes Estimating conservation work

“Specialist advice to those with responsibility for historic metalwork in the public and private sector”

Peter Meehan BSc (Hons) ACR Please visit our website www.hm-cc.uk 07883 205704 peter.meehan@hm-cc.uk

ARMATHERM™ THERMAL BREAK

Extension for Tekla

Structures that creates Armatherm Thermal

Supervision

GSM 3G Intercom with 3 buttons and Keypad Intercoms Priced from £165 upwards

Visit www.gsm-activate.co.uk Call 0800 772 0783 Email sales@gsm-activate.co.uk

SHOW EXCEL LONDON 30TH-2ND OCTOBER

HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW HARROGATE CONVENTION CENTRE 4TH-6TH NOVEMBER

Panasonic helps restore Belfast Grand Opera House to its former glory

Built in 1895, the Belfast Grand Opera House is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic theatres, designed by prolific theatre architect of the period, Frank Matcham. The venue provides a muchloved theatre experience for visitors, and recently underwent a large-scale renovation to update and improve services, including a revamp of its air conditioning with the help of Panasonic.

With a seating capacity for 1,063, the space

requires high-performing air conditioning solutions to ensure visitors can fully enjoy the experience with comfort. To meet this challenge Aircon Sales & Service installed Panasonic air conditioning solutions in the main auditorium, the baby grand studio and the bar areas. In addition, a Panasonic hi-wall split unit, incorporating the unique nanoeTM X technology, was also installed in the front of house office.

The two existing air handling units were

fully refurbished with a total cooling capacity of 230kW, while the main auditorium utilised four 35kW Panasonic 2-pipe ECOi outdoor units, the ideal solution for refurbishments, delivery high energy-saving performance, powerful operation, reliability and comfort.

Furthermore, the baby grand studio utilised two of Panasonic’s 25kW Big PACi condensers – the range is a useful and cost-saving solution with a compact

and light indoor body. All six Panasonic condensers and AHU kits have been piped to new DX cooling coils, which Aircon Sales & Services have also supplied and installed.

For more information on Panasonic heating & cooling solutions, please visit: www.aircon.panasonic.eu

T 01344 853182 www.panasonic.eu

Pumps & Valves News Gas Installation: Make the switch

Introducing faster and easier gas installations, Flexigas is designed for domestic and commercial gas installations and is the number one expert’s choice for plumbers looking for an efficient, lightweight, flexible alternative to rigid or copper steel. Based in Cheshire, Flexigas provides a nationwide service, helping customers to make the switch to Flexigas. Flexigas is made from 316L stainless steel tubing, which is a low carbon version and is approved by British Standards under the KiteMark certification scheme.

But how does Flexigas compare to copper?

Firstly, it is much safer. As it is built from 316L stainless steel tubing it can withstand stress caused to rigid pipework. It always requires far fewer fittings than conventional pipework so there are fewer points in the gas installation from where a leak might occur. Secondly, it is much quicker as Flexigas connections can be made in seconds. Thirdly, Flexigas is far cheaper than the cost of copper and makes jobs easier to estimate and significantly faster to complete, reducing overall product and labour costs.

Flexigas stock a wide range of products on its website from copper fittings to accessories and also has a number of technical brochures available for download. Saving you 75% more time, Flexigas is the number one choice as it can be bent by hand and passed through interior spaces easily. The patented Flexigas fittings ensure a secure seal in a matter of seconds negating the need for specialist tools. Say goodbye to soldering, sealants and heavy crimping and hello to Flexigas.

For more information, see below:

T 01625 707172 sales@flexigas.com www.flexigas.com

Adveco FUSION

Hybrid Hot Water System

Commercial hot water specialist, Adveco, introduces the FUSION FPH-S range of low carbon, all-electric, packaged hybrid hot water systems. FUSION harnesses Adveco’s

FPi32 Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP), a highpressure ATSH calorifier with electric immersion, controls, and metering to provide a reliable, hightemperature, sustainable and cost-effective system for new build and refurbishment projects.

“For organisations with small to medium basin and sink led hot water demands and a desire to embrace a more sustainable business model, the FUSION FPH-S range provides a single, easy to accommodate, highly effective response,” says Bill Sinclair, technical director, Adveco. “By choosing one of these packaged hybrid water systems you gain optimum efficiencies, lower your carbon emissions and can be assured building regulations are being met for your commercial project.”

Available in 16 pre-specified variants, the physical design, dedicated controls, and integrated metering ensure the ASHP preheat, and immersion work seamlessly to deliver the highest operational efficiencies. This enables FUSION’s heat pump to supply 50°C for system preheat and offset much of the electric immersion top-up in the calorifier to deliver up to 53% carbon emission savings.

T +44 (0)1252 551540 www.adveco.co

Safety Consultants of Continuing Choice

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we are proud to announce that we have selected DCON Safety Consultants as our Safety Consultancy Services Company of the Month.

DCON Safety Consultants is passionate and highly committed to continually improving health, safety and wellbeing management in collaboration with our clients. The safety and wellbeing of our people, our client’s staff and those around them is at the heart of our business.

DCON Safety Consultants’ resources have extensive experience in the provision of health and safety consultancy services and the provision of specific health and safety advisory services in the large complex project and development public & private market environment.

Our unique approach to the services we provide is focused heavily on assisting our clients, firstly by obtaining confidence that you have compliance and secondly, showing how you might improve performance. The skills, knowledge and experience of our staff places them at the forefront of their profession, and we welcome the opportunity to bring such resources and benefits to our clients.

DCON Safety Consultants is able to prioritise and specialise in the highest levels of informed and intelligent advice, senior project resource allocation and compliance assurance. DCON Safety Consultants understands that every project contains both benefits and risks and the company is dedicated to helping assess each individual client’s needs, utilising its team of highly experienced construction professionals consistently to ensure each client’s best interest and statutory conformity.

One of the main benefits of engaging with DCON Safety Consultants is its utilisation and primary resource of its exceptional team of technical construction and safety consultants who provide team-oriented services on an as needed basis. DCON Safety Consultants uses both its experienced team’s knowledge and support of its portfolio of alliances with other key individuals and organisations, to support clients in matters involving all divisions of design and construction safety.

The company is committed to providing a transparent, reliable service, which has helped DCON Safety Consultants establish a strong

reputation for its responsible, trustworthy and efficient service. Dedicated to maximising quality, minimising risk and managing compliance, DCON Safety Consultants is well equipped to provide integral advice and services for its clients.

Principal services provided by DCON Safety Consultants includes that of a Project Supervisor for the Design Process (CDM Advisor Plus), Pre-Planning Compliance, Safe Design Adherence, Health & Safety Strategy Creation, Client Advisory Roles, Physical Site Safety Auditing and Expert Witness. Through these services, DCON Safety Consultants support and influence the design of proven, health, safety & wellbeing strategies that seek to help its clients achieve high-quality, cost-effective work for the safe design, construction and operation of their assets.

DCON Safety Consultants Limited takes pride in maintaining a portfolio of wonderful clients, who reuse their services time and again. In addition, the company is committed to all of its clients’ projects, regardless of project size or complexity, DCON Safety Consultants Limited maintains a wealth of expertise in the built environment and generates distinctive and innovative ideas born out of traditional construction service inputs and outputs.

Notable recent projects for the company include the Kevin St. DIT Development Project Dublin 2, Cherrywood Town Centre Development

Dublin 18, Player Wills Development

Dublin 8 and Project Calvary

Dublin 3. These projects are some of the largest residential developments in Ireland presently. They inform the provision of stringent, strategic health and safety processes and procedures where

DCON Safety Consultants continue to inform safe design, build and operate considerations as well as creating behavioural strategies for construction works. Through their expertise and vast knowledge, DCON Safety Consultants outline how the construction works could be managed in a safe, organised and efficient manner, undertaken and coordinated by contractors working on plots interfacing with an operational plan, to work to the mutual benefit of all vested parties.

DCON Safety Consultants provides its services for a wide and varied selection of customers, which includes public sector departments, corporate owners, real estate developers, main contractors, design professionals and infrastructural bodies. No project is too simple or too complex for its team of high-quality consultants. DCON Safety Consultants’ team of consultants are construction professionals, which individually average 20+ years’ of experience in the built environment. This vast knowledge base and skillset, enables the company to provide tailored, distinctive and innovative ideas born from traditional construction competencies in their service inputs and outputs.

If you would like to find out any further information on the company, please see the details featured below or give them a call on the number stated:

T +353 1 611 1556

www.dconsafety.com

Diarmuid Condon, Managing Director at DCON Safety Consultants

Trusted experts in the responsible management, operation and adaption of the built environment

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we are delighted to announce that we have chosen to present our Industry Excellence Award to VINCI Facilities for its efforts to reduce carbon emissions within the Facilities Management and Building Solutions Industry.

Experts in the built environment, VINCI Facilities is a sustainable leader within Facilities Management with a strong carbon commitment to introduce environmental strategies to help tackle climate change in a way that benefits both the business and the environment.

We spoke with Paul Lynch, Head of Energy and Water Management at VINCI Facilities, he stated that, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. That mantra remains as true as it was many years ago when I first heard it as a young engineer. Whether it’s understanding the baseline consumption and emissions, building a map of carbon emissions across your operations or tracking performance over time; accurate, robust and timely data will be the underpinning resource in the drive to Net Zero. The emergence of digitalisation, IoT and remote monitoring mean that collecting, analysing and accessing that data is easier than ever. The trick is to turn that data into information.”

VINCI Facilities recognise the need to operate sustainably in its own organisation and for its customers. Having strong internal capabilities in Environmental Sustainability, Social Value and Utilities and Carbon Management is vital to the business. Holding both ISO14001 and ISO50001 accreditations, VINCI Facilities has come top in the Sustainable FM Index for 2020 and 2021. Having witnessed a recent surge of companies looking to actively operate more sustainably, VINCI Facilities has been busy actively working with companies to help reduce their energy, water and carbon outputs. VINCI Facilities utilise many forms of data capture for energy, water & carbon management, whether it be manual, via electronic forms, or automated via BEMS or metering data feeds into the company Bureau platform.

“The availability of this raw data to our experts, and the industryleading tools available to them, allows us as the FM provider to not only provide the customers with static reports of their key information, but to monitor daily performance, track against targets and proactively work to improve efficiency of the facilities and minimise carbon emissions.” stated Paul.

Providing key customer stakeholders with up-to-date information via a live dashboard ensures that the organisation can make informed decisions and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to operating sustainably. The utilities and carbon data also enables compliance with mandatory schemes such as the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR), and the development of ScienceBased Targets (SBT).

According to VINCI Facilities research and insight, building and construction activities (as an economic sector) together account

for 36% of global final energy use and 39% of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, when upstream power generation is included.

As part of its re-evaluation of its role in society, the FM sector is addressing sustainability and the environment and Facilities Management clearly has an important role to play in mitigating climate change.

VINCI Facilities has produced an Environmental Reduction Roadmap designed to influence and instruct across the value chain. The roadmap was built to support the VINCI SA environmental strategy, based on a wide array of data, collaboration and knowledge sharing. Its Energy and Water Management Team work hand-in-hand with its Facilities Management team to provide energy management support to companies across the UK. This integrated approach ensures that energy monitoring and targeting helps focus asset maintenance toward driving efficiencies.

Another sustainable area VINCI Facilities has investigated is the market for electric solutions in the workplace. With electric vehicles evolving at a significant rate, business drivers will be able to get more miles from an EV which offers a more affordable, practical and accessible solution. VINCI Facilities collaborated with its fleet department, energy managers and sister company Actemium to take a whole-view approach to carbon reduction through EVs. Actemium supported the delivery of smart energy management solutions to ensure consistent delivery of sustainable energy to power its ever-growing fleet of EVs. As a result, all VINCI Facilities office chargers are now powered 100% by renewable energy.

Post COP 26 and with legislation changing to drive the UK’s 2050 Net Zero ambition, as the FM provider, VINCI Facilities has a part to play in supporting its customers net zero targets. This will be done in two ways; firstly, by employing a combination of initiatives into how the company operates and supports its customer facilities and secondly, through asset replacement/upgrades where applicable. This could include options such as self-financing by the organisation, securing finance or grants, and for larger schemes, Energy Performance Contracts (EPC) could be used.

Some other services VINCI Facilities provide for its customers include: strategic advice and support to help organisations meet their goals, improved control by optimising efficiency in operation through

improved control and behaviours, bureau and data management – where VINCI Facilities help companies to understand, manage and improve their overall energy and water performance, technology upgrades and project delivery, smart places such as EV charging solutions, utilities procurement for optimal energy and water contract procurement and management, and compliance and certification – going beyond simple compliance and offering support services to companies.

Environmental, social and governance issues are critical to any successful business. As recognised leaders in sustainability, these practices are embedded within the culture and the way VINCI Facilities work. VINCI Facilities approach is proven successful, with integrity, innovation, discipline and collaboration at the core of its business model, the company strives for excellence in everything it does. VINCI Facilities’ FM contracts and KPI’s include the integration of utilities, carbon and environmental service aiding the company target to achieve Net Zero for organisations by the 2050 deadline.

The extensive research VINCI Facilities has carried out demonstrates that concerted, strategic action is possible and yields significant benefits. Embracing decarbonisation and other ambitious environmental goals is doable and can deliver real value to any business. VINCI Facilities roadmap is designed to take its industry into a sustainable future.

Help VINCI Facilities meet the New Zero Challenge by enquiring for its services today.

For more information, please see below:

T +44 (0)300 600 3433 info@vincifacilities.com www.vincifacilities.com

Give your business a lift

Construction hoists have become essential equipment on large-scale developments. With the ability to transport tools, materials and workers quickly and efficiently, hoists cut costs and optimise build speeds.

But what happens when the site has access difficulties? How can a project manager take advantage of a hoist’s manpower savings if there’s no space for installation?

The answer is to call Direct Hoist, an ever-expanding construction hoist hire and sales specialist based in the Midlands and serving industry throughout England. Direct Hoist has an extensive fleet of German-built GEDA hoists, so there’s a tool for every task. From scaffold hoists to gantry hoists, from tile hoists to 5x2.9m lifting platforms, Direct Hoist has modern, highly maintained hoists always available. Direct Hoist’s particular strengths are in its expertise to go places other hoist suppliers cannot reach.

DoorBird integrates a Biometric Fingerprint Sensor in its IP Door Intercoms

Indeed, the firm’s founder, Rob Wilson, relishes the scope to erect equipment in areas many would consider too impractical.

Direct Hoist’s versatile GEDA equipment can be reconfigured for almost any circumstances, taking account of load calculations, equipment specifications, and whether there are any voids below ground or obstructions above.

A recent challenge for Direct Hoist was to supply a hoist for a 61m office-toapartments conversion in Newcastle, where the entire platform had to be fed through a car

park with 1.8m head height. Rob says, “Other hoist companies said it couldn’t be done. But we did it. We had to strip it down far enough to get through the basement, then rebuild the complete hoist once it was in position.”

Although it’s common for Direct Hoist to have multiple installations on sites, just one hoist is in operation here: a GEDA 500 Z/ZP/850 transport platform, which can be operated as an 850kg goodsonly hoist or up to 500kg for five persons. When used for materials, the platform is controlled from the ground and sets off at a speed of 12m/min before accelerating to 24m/min. When carrying personnel, the hoist is controlled from the platform and maintains a 12m/min speed; it also adds a roof.

“It’s a great hoist,” adds Rob. “It can be left- or righthanded, and has the facility to move around the loading/ unloading ramp.”

For the Newcastle installation, the 500 Z/ZP/850 is being used solely for goods transportation to any one of its 19 storeys. Eventually, it will be employed

Focussing on Fire Safety

GEZE UK has revised a piece of lifesaving learning –the popular RIBA-approved CPD Specifying, Installing and Maintaining Ironmongery for Fire Doors has been completely revised and updated and includes new visuals and updates to regulations all in GEZE’s new branding.

The CPD explains what fire doors are, identifies their various components, how they work, the standards and regulations, which surround them and why smoke is so dangerous. It incorporates the latest statistics for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including the number of people that die from smoke inhalation every year.

Offering architects and specifiers invaluable advice and guidance, which contributes to their continuing professional development, this updated training seminar gives a better understanding of the standards

and regulations surrounding fire doors to ensure fire safety is paramount.

The 40 minute seminar covers all the relevant standards and regulations and is included in RIBA’s core curriculum: Design, Construction and Technology and Health, Safety and Wellbeing for the General Awareness knowledge level.

It can be presented in person or virtually via a variety of online platforms and at a time to suit, usually lunchtime but breakfast seminars or afternoon sessions can be accommodated.

To find out more or to book a CPD seminar, email: cpd@geze.com or visit: https://www.geze.co.uk/en/ services/trainings-and-seminars-cpd

RIBA Chartered Architects are obliged to undertake

to assist a complete refurbishment of the building and replacement of the external cladding. In the meantime, it’s enabling the completion of full wraparound scaffolding at an impressive rate of one landing per day.

Rob reports, “It’s all about the speed of build, and the most effective solutions to reduce costs. Construction hoists are part of a fast-moving industry, and we’re one of the best in the game.”

And now, on top of market-leading sales and servicing, finance is available on Direct Hoist products, so there’s really no excuse not to give your business a lift.

Contact Direct Hoist on: +44 (0)1724 781647 or visit the website at: www.directhoist.co.uk

a minimum of 35 hours a week to maintain their competence: https://www.architecture.com/educationcpd-and-careers/cpd/fulfilling-your-cpd-obligations

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call: 01543 443000 or visit: www.geze.co.uk

Bird Home Automation, a Berlin-based manufacturer of ‘DoorBird’ IP access control devices launched two IP door intercoms with an integrated fingerprint sensor: D2101FV Fingerprint 50 and D2102FV Fingerprint 50. The full-frame touch sensor is based on patented technology by Fingerprint Cards AB, a leading global biometrics company based in Sweden and meets high convenience and security standards compared to line-based sensors.

The new fingerprint reader is fully integrated into the DoorBird software and can be configured remotely.

Via app or web-based dashboard, users can grant and withdraw access permissions and define which event should follow when a certain finger is detected. For example, an internal or external relay can be triggered, or an HTTP(S) command can be carried out. To prevent manipulation attempts, the fingerprint scanner is temporarily locked after five unauthorised access attempts.

With a DoorBird door station, homeowners and residents can see and speak to their visitors and delivery services via smartphone and unlock the door when needed. Using the DoorBird 3D Configurator, customers can also create customised IP video door stations equipped with the new fingerprint sensor and other modules such as keypads or displays.

www.doorbird.com

Proven Sanitation Equipment

Specialising in the supply of marine sanitation systems for the marine, welfare and leisure industries, LeeSan is a trusted company based in Warwickshire that is widely recognised for its suitably sourced solutions and efficiently employed services.

A provider and consultancy of sorts, LeeSan has been competently fulfilling the needs of its customers for more than forty years. Over the course of this period the organisation has grown to become a UK leader specialising in the provision of marine sanitation equipment, parts and service kits. The reputable business subsequently boasts the

largest online portfolio of associated products – this covers everything from hoses/pipe & fittings, tanks, pump spare parts, consumables, tank accessories, self-pump-out kits, toilet & tank packages, service kits and pump-out accessories to flush water treatment, water systems, Bilge water filtration, pump-out equipment, toilets, seats & lids, toilet

spare parts, specialist tools and waste transfer systems.

Suitable for domestic, industrial and commercial clients, these components are readily available for purchase. As well as providing the necessary spare parts and accessories, LeeSan can facilitate singular mobile sanitation and clean water boosting work requirements with its focused services and capabilities (this includes designing, manufacturing, completing maintenance works and offering technical support).

Contact www.leesan.com

Goland Recruitment

Goland Recruitment was established in 2012 to provide the Recruitment Industry with ‘Quality Driven Recruitment.’

At Goland Recruitment we are confident we provide a service second to none.

We are hands on and work closely with our clients and candidates to ensure that the best service is delivered to fulfil both their expectations and requirements.

Making sure that each of our clients and candidates receive the most professional service we can offer. This approach is embodied in our company ethos of providing ‘Quality Driven Recruitment.’

Goland Recruitment is committed to sourcing people who are genuinely interested in what they do. We realise costs are important, so we strive to offer the best value for money and costs that are totally transparent with no hidden extras.

www.goland.group

Flying high for 30th anniversary

Up, up and away!

Strand Hardware is celebrating its 30th anniversary as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of door and window hardware including finger protectors, emergency exit and panic hardware, window control systems and glass fittings.

The family-run business, based in Walsall, West Midlands is marking the occasion by sending a gift to customers and suppliers as a thank-you for their continued support.

The company was established by the late Jonathan Franks, who previously ran Hope Works, a wellknown iron foundry manufacturing traditional black antique ironmongery. Jonathan’s daughter, Catherine joined him in the business in 2000, initially as Company Secretary and took on the Managing Director's role upon her father's retirement in 2006.

Over the years, Strand Hardware has grown –extending its operations, workforce and premises – while managing to maintain the family ethos on which it was based. Many of its employees have worked for the company for more than 20 years – a loyalty matched by a commitment to staff development and welfare.

Strand Hardware is now the sole UK distributor for leading European manufacturers including Athmer (finger protection) and Antipanic (panic hardware). Its expertise in ‘niche’ but highly technical products means that it has extensive reach. Walk through the doors of many of the UK’s popular fast-food outlets and it’s likely that you will pass by products it supplies to developers, fabricators and installers through its network of trusted distributors. Likewise, buildings within health and education, which require entrances with durable fittings to meet safety and accessibility requirement – are also likely candidates.

Just like its products, Strand Hardware has demonstrated a lasting durability. It has travelled a road with many milestones –chronicled in an illustrative timeline on its website: https://www.strandhardware.co.uk to mark its anniversary and remains buoyant with a positive future ahead. For more information, email: info@strandhardware.co.uk.

Catherine (centre) with employees of Strand Hardware

GSE: Survey and Safety Specialists

Global Survey Equipment (GSE) was established in 2011 by Mark Owen and Matthew McGuire and offers a broad range of products which incorporates the latest technology. The survey equipment the company supplies is extensive and covers all aspects of the surveying process.

Based in Atherton, Greater Manchester, GSE work across four main areas of services which are: hire, sales, repair and calibration although they also provide instrument and cable location training.

GSE offers everything from auto levels to robotic instruments and GNSS most of which are under the manufacturing brand of GeoMax (part of the Hexagon group). Providing an extensive range of survey and safety equipment, detection, lasers and used equipment alongside its services in calibration, hire equipment and DeWalt laser repair, one of its latest

products is the GeoMax Zoom 95 which is the true flagship of the GeoMax TPS portfolio.

The Zoom 95 is the ultimate one-man system with up to 20% more automation performance and extended reflectorless measurement capability. Add to this the X-Pad Ultimate field software which is entirely user focused and adopts an ideal balance between clear structure, uncomplicated workflows and impressive functionality.

The GeoMax Zoom 95 is a further developed total station from its predecessor the GeoMax Zoom 90.

The Zoom 95 has a larger onboard screen, higher performing processor and an internal memory of 2GB. With a range of rugged Android tablets available, be it customer preference of device or advise from technical support, the X-Pad Ultimate is the field software best suited to the Survey and Construction Industry.

GSE also presents a range of detection devices including Cable Avoidance solutions, Drain Cameras and Gas detection, Environment Meters including Light Meters, Moisture Meters, Sound Meters, Thermometers and Air Flow Meters and Gas Detection solutions.

Along with its detection and survey equipment GSE supplies reliable and durable health and safety equipment for confined space entry and when working at heights. With the customers health and safety concerns at heart, you can be sure that you’re in safe hands when calling on GSE to secure the safety of your work site.

In terms of recent developments GSE is pleased to have successfully delivered a range of Geomax survey instruments to Wigan & Leigh College to

further bolster the GeoMax range of Total Stations they had previously acquired. This new equipment aims to support the T Levels in Construction (Design, Surveying and Planning) courses available at Wigan & Leigh College.

As far as future plans go GSE hope to further expand into the educational sector after its recent success at Wigan & leigh College, Mark explained more, “We want more opportunities to show the next generation of Surveyors and Civil Engineers the latest in modern survey technologies as it’s something we have worked on over recent years and is part of our plans in building the company’s profile.”

For any more information, please see the details featured below: T 01942 896244 www.globalsurveyequipment.com

Recycling in the workplace for Climate Change

The time to act is now in the global commitment to stop climate change. By recycling creatively with the support of industry specialists and ensuring your commitment extends to your supply chain, every business can make a difference.

By Nina Wyers, Marketing & Brand Director at The Floorbrite Group

Increasingly, individuals, governments, organisations and businesses are focused on green solutions, With climate change being at the forefront of world leader’s agendas, the time for businesses to act is now. The global demand for energy is set to increase by 4.6% in 2021. Global warming of 1.5°C and 2°C will be exceeded this century unless business leaders and policymakers explore the actions they should be taking to help achieve a net-zero economy. What can companies do to support the global commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and other greenhouse gases?

Recycling helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing energy consumption. Using recycled materials to make new products reduces the need for virgin materials. This avoids greenhouse gas emissions that would result from extracting or mining virgin materials.

In 2015, The Floorbrite Group introduced our Waste and Environmental Management division to our portfolio of cleaning and facility services. We believe

this new service complimented our daily cleaning service offering. If our cleaners are transferring internal waste to external skips and bins, surely, we could work creatively and innovatively with our customers to find bespoke, recycling lead solutions for their waste, whether that be for re-use in some way or waste to energy.

Our Environmental Consultant Trudie Williams who first created our waste team is passionate about the environment and delivers our unique award-winning service by working with our customers to understand how they work and offering a range of services covering trade waste removal, recycling, food waste removal, secure shredding, hazardous waste and diversion from landfill.

We can offer a bespoke waste management package unique to any business’s requirements, with a focus on achieving their specific environmental goals. We create programmes for managing internal and external recycling and can offer baling and compaction equipment on site to reduce your waste footprint before it even travels. Accurate environmental reports can also be produced for your business showing tonnages per month produced by

your site and a breakdown of each waste stream. By measuring waste on a monthly basis, we can ensure a reduction of your landfill disposal.

Our team have provided award winning solutions by recycling used and worn lorry trailer mud flaps and curtain sides into rubber pellets for children’s playground flooring and material for fashion bags. Broken tea bag waste from the manufacturing process has been recycled for animal bedding. Waste tea leaf dust is used as an additive in fertiliser. By reclassifying safe sludge waste produced in a pumping station at a power station we have safely disposed of the waste through land spreading. Reducing single use plastic milk bottles on a site by 300 bottles per week has been achieved with the introduction of cooling vending, food waste is collected weekly and sent to an anaerobic digestion plant to produce biogas for energy and bio fertiliser. We introduced closed loop recycling by installing bailing machines at a number of retail distribution sites to recycle waste plastic into pellets to be re-made into new plastic mailing bags. And finally,

we are reclaiming metal shavings and oil from grinding waste at an engineering manufacturer, by separating the oil from the grinding waste and recycling the metal shavings back into the manufacturing process. Oil waste is then extracted from the soaking pads and both these elements are then also recycled, where previously the whole process produced a dirty sludge classed as hazardous waste which couldn’t by recycled, these are to name a few.

Did you know that Floorbrite are International Green World Ambassadors and Award Winners?

Since 2015, Floorbrite have entered the The Green Organisation’s prestigious Green Apple Awards and consequently won each year since, with presentations at The Houses of Parliament. Through our innovation in delivering bespoke, recycling led waste and environmental management services to our clients, we have now become Green World Ambassadors and gone on to win further International Green World Awards each year, collecting the first in Dubai in 2017. Our winning projects for environmental best practice are also published in the annual Green Book produced each year.

To find out more about all our services or to book a consultation with our Waste team, please visit: www.floorbrite.co.uk or call: 0161 972 3000.

Turn your space into an oasis

Just Artificial is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of artificial plants, trees, silk flowers and related accessories. Having supplied major companies such as the BBC, Tesco and Volkswagen, Just Artificial is setting standards across the market.

Just Artificial (est. 2004) has everything you need to make your space unique. The Artificial Plants are highly realistic, durable and designed with meticulous care and attention. They have products suitable for both indoor & outdoor use, Just Artificial’s plants are the perfect way to complement any house, home office or business, and are available at highly competitive prices with many multi-buy offers in their webstore. With a range that is constantly growing, Just Artificial

makes sure it stays up to date with the latest trends while still addressing traditional needs. Just Artificial can also provide bespoke builds manufactured to your specifications, and offers Fire Retardant and UV Resistant options to guarantee durability.

The company provides UK, international and worldwide delivery with no minimum order quantity, and there are also discounts available for bulk orders For more information and to view Just Artificial’s extensive range, head to their easy to use website or get in touch using the contact details below.

T 01524 858888 sales@justartificial.co.uk www.justartificial.co.uk

SafeGroup appoints business development manager

Soft FM and waste management specialist SafeGroup has appointed experienced business development manager Tracey Tripp (pictured) to drive expansion of its operations in southwest England.

Tracey has more than 15 years’ experience working in sales roles in the specialist cleaning and hygiene service sector.

She is now heading up business development for SafeGroup in south west England in support of the company’s newest depot in Dorchester, Dorset.

Tracey has joined SafeGroup because she can see the huge potential for the growth of the company's services in cities like Bristol, Bath Exeter and Plymouth, and right across the region.

Tracey is looking forward to providing more customers with SafeGroup’s specialist high level cleans for factories and other buildings that must have trained and experienced cleaning operatives, working to established high standards.

New business trends, such as the growth of staycations and the need to improve business hygiene in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic all pointed to rising demand for SafeGroup services across counties like Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Devon and Cornwall.

T 0800 668 1268

www.thesafegroup.co.uk

Contracts and supplier take top industry sustainability award

Designer Contracts has scooped a top industry prize for sustainability in a prestigious industry partnership awards scheme.

Along with Texfelt, a world-leading manufacturer of ecoengineered PU foam replacements, Designer Contracts – the UK’s largest flooring contractor – took the Partners in Sustainability category title in the PFM Partnership Awards 2021.

The announcement was made at an awards ceremony at The Brewery on Chiswell Street in London, on November 3 where more than 500 industry professionals gathered for the facilities management event of the year.

Designer Contracts and Texfelt have an exclusive arrangement to sell a unique, fully recyclable underlay made from single use plastic bottles to the new build sector. To date Designer Contracts has diverted over 750,000 bottles from the environment through sales of Texfelt’s ground-breaking SpringBond underlay.

SpringBond has the potential to save the equivalent of 1,000 500ml PET plastic bottles from polluting the oceans and environment if used throughout an average three-bedroom house.

Judges said the partnership had proved extremely effective in having a highly positive effective on the environment through the reduction of plastic waste by re-purposing it.

T 01246 854577

enquiries@designercontracts.com

www.designercontracts.com

@DesignerContrac

The Workplace Event and the Health and Safety Event

ASAP Comply launch Fire Compartmentation Surveys

Buildings are designed with compartmentation as a vital part of its Fire Strategy, and when effective, this will limit the spread of fire and smoke, internally and externally. However, recently acquired premises often lack fire safety documentation and information relating to refurbishments or change of use.

ASAP Comply will:

The Workplace Event, is an evolution of The Facilities Event and brings a wider scope and sharper focus on employee experience and workplace performance.

The Workplace Event is the new home for workplace and facilities innovation. Featuring 3,000+ workplace and FM professionals, 30+ expert speakers, 20+ hours of content and 100+ exhibitors, the event is the perfect hub of networking and explorative discovery.

The Workplace Event is free-to-attend and is the place where the industry meets to be inspired, share best practices and source leading suppliers to enhance and produce more effective working environments, employee experience, and optimise organisational performance. the Workplace Event is a hive for

collaboration and innovation, dedicated to improving workplace experience.

The Health and Safety Event is designed to improve occupational health & safety standards. The Health and Safety Event provides a platform to showcase the latest products and services from the industry. The event brings together anyone responsible for running a safe and efficient workplace. The event has seen exponential growth, leading it to be the fastest growing exhibition in its sector, attracting the UK’s largest audience of health and safety buyers and providing a hub of resources for product information, solutions and best practice to improve workplace standards.

For more information, please see below: www.theworkplaceevent.com www.healthandsafetyevent.com

Made of stronger stuff

From a company whose success has been built around the belief that things can always be improved, Metador is an industry leading UK based manufacturer of bespoke steel doors. Built within budget, Metador steel doors can be custom built to any size, colour or specification. These bespoke steel security and fire rated doors can be used for a wide range of applications including retail outlets, schools, offices, commercial buildings and medical facilities.

Based in North Yorkshire, Metador was established in 2004 and its in-house dedicated design team, have been responsible for reinforcing security in many well-known U.K. buildings including the Houses of Parliament and further afield to installations in Kenya, Belize, Ghana and the Falkland Islands. The company has built a trusted reputation that is world renowned for providing quality products amassed by excellent customer service and delivery with a research and development program allowing for continuous improvement and innovation.

With a recent, significant site expansion, Metador have increased its production capacity and can offer greater efficiencies and turnaround time for its customers.

The doorsets offer stronger steel as standard, they are easy to install and have a variety of options, including fire rated steel doors, security steel doors, emergency exit doors, fully glazed steel doors, louvred steel door, modular and acoustic steel doors all offering strong and secure solutions and options for stunning contemporary designs with all the durable benefits of steel.

For more information, see below:

T 01642 337119 security@metador.com www.metador.com

▲ Review all available documentation including Drawings, Fire Strategy Documents, and Maintenance Records

▲ Attend site and survey the Compartmentation and building materials of the premises

▲ Identify and document fire-resisting construction, its condition, any breaches or inadequate sealing and materials used, including hard to reach areas such as voids or lift shafts

▲ Identify remedial works required to achieve the required compartmentation

▲ Project Manage these works if needed.

If you suspect that the integrity of your compartmentation is inadequate or has been compromised, this survey will provide you with an independent and professional baseline from which to make improvements to restore the integrity of each designed area. This will also help to justify the implementation of existing Fire Safety Management Strategies or to enable the production of a new Fire Strategy document.

For a no obligation quote contact us on: 0151 363 2333, email: enquiries@asapcomply.com or visit: www.asapcomply.com

Game changing Noise Seeking Camera reaches UK Market

microphones, that make them super sensitive for finding compressed air leaks, as well as electrical losses.

Ideal for solving Health and Safety (noise) problems, it becomes easy to find and reduce workplace noise. You can also monitor your critical machines, finding worn bearings or other failing components long before they become critical. In seconds, you can have video proof of the origins and levels of noise, and initiate and verify improvements.

Imagine how easy it would be to deal with troublesome sound sources, if you could see them overlaid on a camera image. This amazing technology has been around for more than a decade, but price, complexity and size have prevented its widespread use.

The SOUNDCAM 2.0 is a unique, new product, which makes noise source location as easy and portable as using a video camera, requiring no acoustic expertise or training. It is waterproof, battery powered and has a touch screen that anyone can master in minutes.

We must do all we can to slow down climate change by saving energy and CO2. That’s why our SOUNDCAM 2.0 and our smaller SOUNDCAM ULTRA models now have ultrasonic

For the acoustic experts, we also have the modular BIONIC series of acoustic cameras, with advanced specifications and prices that nobody else can come close to.

We also offer rental, and consulting services. With this incredible technology, we can solve your noise problems faster than anyone else! SOUNDCAM UK (www.soundcam.uk), is a trading name of Acoustic Camera UK Ltd. the Coventry based UK distributor for acoustic cameras from CAE Systems GmbH, Made in Germany.

T +44 (0)2476 982424 office@soundcam.uk

Ensure, improve and measure air quality

In this issue of Building and Facilities News, we have selected CPA Engineered Solutions as Air Quality Company of the Month.

CPA Engineered Solutions was founded in March 1992 by Ian McAnna, John Smith, and Alan Collin. Starting out, the company mainly provided parts to the industrial compressed air market but has since gained significant growth and developed into the sale, installation, maintenance, and repair of industrial compressed air equipment as well as other products that provide better indoor air quality. The company is proud to be celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022.

CPA Engineered Solutions provides an array of solutions to meet a wide range of business challenges, including improving indoor air quality, colleague wellbeing, production continuity, energy efficiency, and much more.

two hours; consistently cleaning air is of the utmost importance,” said Alan.

A few noteworthy products for the company include the CPA Biojet®, Enershield air barriers, and the Air Barikade®, all of which have been developed and designed to solve a problem highlighted by customers.

“We specialise in solving challenges relating to the effective and efficient use of air within a facility. Our two divisions blend First Class Engineered Solutions with Best in Class Products that focus on helping companies achieve their business challenges. Our Compressed air division is one of Scotland’s largest and best equipped. Our Controlled Air division specialises in technologies that help improve indoor air quality. Technologies that reduce the thermal transfer of air through an open door, improve ventilation by removing stale air and a state of the art product that has re-imagined air sterilisation.” stated Alan Collin, Chief Executive Officer.

“Our combination of products allows us to provide a total solution – products that make the indoor air safer and the indoor environment more comfortable for the occupants. Products that can help reduce a business’s energy costs. Some even operate using only the power of the wind, making it a very effective and green solution. These products are helping our customers reduce their carbon footprint,” added Alan.

We are dedicated to providing a cleaner indoor air environment in, but not limited to, highly populated buildings such as offices, schools, and the hospitality sector; pubs and clubs.

“Nobody would be happy drinking dirty water from a tap or drinking from a dirty glass and we feel the same about air quality. When statistics show that one simple sneeze or cough can stay in the air for

The new CPA Biojet uses advanced ultraviolet technology that has been scientifically proven to produce cleaner and safer indoor air. The performance characteristics of the Biojet are revolutionary, creating a new category of air sterilisation and re-circulating ventilation, producing much safer and cleaner indoor air. Utilising its high output UVC energy field, the Biojet draws in facility air and deactivates up to 99.99% of microbes, producing and delivering clean air back into the facility. Its ultraviolet germicidal lamps provide a far more powerful and concentrated effect of ultraviolet energy, and germicidal UV, providing a highly effective method for eradicating microorganisms. In addition, independent testing has proven that UVC is an effective solution for inactivating coronaviruses.

“One of the biggest advantages of our products has been during the COVID-19 pandemic as our equipment provides measurably improved

customer has total confidence that we have delivered exactly what we said,” explained Alan.

The Biojet can provide air sterilisation for an area up to 574m² and produces no ozone or other secondary contaminants. The Biojet offers many beneficial aspects, including enhanced reliability, and performance. It features its own patented state of the art solid-state electronic power supply, with a typical 9,000 hours between changeouts.

Moving away from products that clean the indoor air to a product that can stabilise the internal temperature of a building and keep out flying insects, dust, and odours. Enershield air barriers are an effective solution to create a seal on a doorway. Creating a virtual door by re-circulating ambient air and forcing it across an opening, the Enershield creates up to a 90% seal, meaning 90% of the internal air is recirculated back into the building. This seal eliminates contamination by separating the atmospheres on either side, stopping temperature transfer. This can provide a significant cost saving for heating and cooling bills. Door activated, the invisible high velocity air stream creates a ‘virtual door’ and vehicles and pedestrians can still pass without obstruction.

The Air Barikade® is a patented and revolutionary heated air barrier that creates two independent airflows. The Air Barikade® is an industry first, creating a robust sealing capability of an air barrier,

while also delivering the comfort of gentle space heating at an entrance.

In terms of recent developments, CPA Engineered Solutions has seen its best year on record from June 2020–2021. Alan explained, “In March 2020, we were unsure of the future, but our variation of products and industries has increased our demand. Most notably

clean air quality, enabling businesses to carry on working safely. The most important word we use is measurable, and our systems provide measurably improved air quality. Anything we do, we take pride in verifying and providing measurements to demonstrate. We provide pre and postmeasurements presented to each client, showing how the clean the air was and how much this was improved. We also ensure that we provide regular scheduling to guarantee continued air quality. This provides our clients with a complete, reliable service. We measure before and after to make sure the

was the increase in demand for the Biojet, we have been selling this product for many years; however, in light of the pandemic, it has made people realise the importance of improving their air quality.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have remained operational and continued to service customers; an important aspect to us, as we believe in service over sales, meaning that top quality service is the key to gaining sales.”

As the company looks ahead, Alan expressed the importance of changing the industry’s perspective and adopting a practice of providing a proven record for air quality.

Alan continued, “We would like to see more interest from the buildings and facilities industry in measuring and ensuring air quality. There needs to be more sterilisation, purification, and air quality measurements, invested in by facilities management to ensure that their establishment and people are safe. I’m very passionate about our products. We would like to see improvement from organisations such as the NHS, up to the government, to take responsibility for ensuring air quality control. There needs to be investment made to ensure, improve and measure air quality properly.”

For any further information, please see the details below:

T 01501 825024

www.cpa-group.com

® Air Barikade, Biojet, logos and design are registered trademarks of CPA Engineered Solutions Ltd

Alan Collin, Chief Executive Officer at CPA Group