Building and Facilities News Issue 987

Tel: 0121 550 4593 ● www.buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk ● October ● Issue 987 Search for us on LinkedIn

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Carlisle builds on innovation with ARBOFLEX liquid system Page 8

Ecomerchant 10

Structural Steel Buildings

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Independent Access Sales 25

Contents

Editor’s Comments This month we continue our focus on sustainability and the environment and feature some fantastic companies whose services and products are becoming increasingly more important and vital in today’s industry. From security, monitoring and control devices used by building and construction businesses to the new Fuel Card from fuelGenie that offers a fully transparent fuel solution for fleet services, optimising fuel efficiency costs and providing buoyancy in a time of inflated fuel prices; we have chosen the best and most innovative products and services for you to peruse.

We showcase a recently launched first autonomous robotic Scrubber Dryer, the KIRA B 50 from Kärcher who is known as a specialist in cleaning equipment for homes and businesses. Increasing efficiency in the workplace while cutting costs is essential to any business managing any large

Building and Facilities News

facilities space, therefore the flexible service offered by Kärcher allows these customers to hire equipment instead of purchasing which is another great way to reduce business overheads without compromising cleaning needs.

Currently there is a large focus on the water industry & Groundbreaker has come up with a lucrative, innovative product that will save builders merchants a lot of money. Burst pipes are the most common cause of home insurance claims in the UK costing an average of £3,500 in damage to property and contents and as we go into the Winter season frost can become a further threat to water services. The replacement of a leaking or old and unreliable water supply can extend timelines and inflate costs, therefore the use of Groundbreaker’s INSUduct allows the new water service to be routed up the

Nicola Tromans Editor & Office Manager external face of the building and only requires one simple core drilled hole through the wall at an appropriate point to connect with the internal plumbing. A Groundbreaking idea!

Is your organisation missing out on exceptional female talent? HR leaders in every sector understand the importance of embracing principles of gender parity in hiring practices, but sadly some industries have further to go than others. We delve into the facilities management sector and speak with Danielle Le Breton, HR Director at Lanes Group on the barriers that stop women from advancing in the FM workplace as well as practical steps employers can take to better support women at work.

Don’t forget to send us your latest BFN updates and news. Email us at: info@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk

On the Cover

Company of the Month 4

Kärcher is a German family-owned company that operates worldwide and is known for its range of pressure washers, professional cleaning equipment for industry, and window vacuum cleaners.

Landscaping & External Works 6-7

Eco Clipper, a specialist in large area mowers, offers the EC-FM4 Sport with four independent mowing decks for municipalities, sports fields and parks.

Building & Construction Products & Services 8-12

In this five page section, we include a profile of Ecomerchant, a successful independent employeeowned business that supplies UK wide building materials to the trade.

Carlisle Construction Materials 8 CARLISLE® Construction Materials continues to go from strength to strength with its liquid applied roofing membrane system, ARBOFLEX®PU. The BBA certified, wet-on-wet PU waterproofing system provides a completely monolithic roof, with no flames, no laps and no heat.

Company of the Month 13 The fleet industry can benefit from smart travel planning and fuel cards, offered by companies such as fuelGenie. Check them out here.

Facilities & Estate Management 18-21

In this section, Danielle Le Breton, HR Director at Lanes Group, asks what the facilities management sector must do to improve female recuitment?

Contacts Editor & Office Manager, Nicola Tromans – 0121 550 4593 nicolatromans@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk Production Manager, Robert Sharp production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 07974 087740 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack The entire content of this publication is advertorial based.

To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 4593.

BFN is sponsored

by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Cleaning Equipment & Solutions Company of the Month

issue of Building Clean autonomously, InandthisFacilities News we are pleased to feature increase efficiency Kärcher UK as our Cleaning Equipment & Solutions Company of the Month

schools, sports halls, and more.

Kärcher is a German family-owned company that operates worldwide and is known for its range of pressure washers, professional cleaning equipment for industry, window vacuum cleaners and the innovative FC 5 Hard Floor Cleaner.

Kärcher UK has also recently rebranded and integrated its Hire Business, from Cleansweep to Kärcher Hire, bringing them within the same business entity.

The option to hire equipment on a flexible basis will help to reduce business overheads without compromising cleaning needs.

Kärcher UK is headquartered in Banbury, Oxfordshire, and supported by four other KOKO’s around the UK that can be found in Newcastle, Bristol, Nottingham and Banbury.

Known as specialists in cleaning equipment for homes and businesses, we were keen to find out more about such an innovative company. We spoke to Daniel Took, Head of Professional Product Marketing at Kärcher UK who explained why Kärcher UK is so successful.

“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, with over 90% of our machines being less than 5 years old. Increasing our knowledge in the field and the product offering we have is a key part of our strategy, we had 678 active patents in 2022 which is growing year on year. It is not just the products that we bring to our customers that set us apart, but the sheer scale at which we

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can operate. From our nationwide coverage by our service engineers – who also offer All Brand Servicing for machines of any type, to our dedicated Field Support Executives that can offer on-site support for our customers, as well as access to our ever-expanding network of Kärcher Centres. We also have an array of financial solutions – whether it be Purchase, Hire or Lease. We are a complete solutions provider when it comes to anything cleaning!”

Recently launched was the company’s first autonomous robotic Scrubber Dryer, the KIRA B 50. This is a fully autonomous scrubber dryer, designed to tackle medium and large floor areas. The KIRA B 50 is good for business as it eradicates the need for qualified personnel to clean large surface floor areas allowing your team to focus on more complex cleaning tasks. Schedule the machine to a specific time period and precisely preset the water volume that you want used to save time, money and resources. It’s proven roller brush technique with pre-sweeping function and side brush works at a 55cm width and performs highly in an area of up to 2,300m2 per hour. Most suitable for places such as airports, logistics warehouses, hospitals, shopping centres,

“This service allows new and existing business customers to hire a range of Kärcher UK products to deliver everyday cleaning needs quickly and efficiently. The integration will be underpinned by the opening of multiple new depots to speed up delivery times, with five planned to be operational by the end of the year,” added Daniel.

The rebranding and integration of its Hire business coupled with the launch of the KIRA B 50 is key to all Kärcher UK customers and will enable the company to support them with the many challenges that the industry is currently facing. Learning to adapt and overcome is something Kärcher UK is well versed to and will only aid its growth trajectory moving forward. www.kaercher.com/uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Editor Recommends

Perfect for apex glazing SUNSHIELD’s tiltable external louvres are the ideal choice for apex glazing, providing a range of benefits for your home or building. These louvres not only offer sustainable window shading but also enhance your living space while reducing energy consumption. They bring a touch of sophistication to your home design, adding a talking point that is sure to impress.

Our stunning louvres are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and sustainable.

They provide an effective solution for managing daylight, preventing glare, and controlling heat from the sun. With their exceptional performance, our louvres meet the Building Part ‘O’ Regulation requirement for overheating standards.

Crafted with top-quality materials, our louvres are

built to last. We prioritise manufacturing excellence, ensuring that our louvres deliver durability and reliability.

Additionally, our louvre systems are completely tailor-made, allowing for customisation to fit any window size and shape seamlessly.

With a beautiful functional design and a complete viewthrough, our louvre systems are completely tailor-made, therefore applicable for any window size and shape. Visit: www.sunshield.uk/projects to take a look at our most recent installations.

T 01746 250042 info@sunshield.uk

A sustainable window shading solution that enhances living space, reduces energy consumption and adds a WOW factor to your home design.

Our stunning louvres are practical and sustainable, creating an effective solution for managing daylight, avoiding glare and controlling heat from the sun.

info@sunshield.uk 01746 250042

www.sunshield.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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Landscaping & External Works

Natural stone proves popular Cotswold Hill Stone & Masonry Limited was first set up back in 2007 and celebrates its 16th anniversary this year. Cotswold Hill Stone & Masonry operates two separate quarrying sites, Cotswold Hill Quarry, near Ford, on the outskirts of Cheltenham and their Birch Hill Quarry, located at Parkend, near Coleford in the Forest of Dean.

One of its most frequent uses is for landscaping sector with the cropped building and walling stone favoured by architects and planners.

Sometimes the stone can have a green hue, or even a shock of red within it which provides a more dynamic and contrasting appearance.

From these quarries, they produce Cotswold limestone, Forest Pennant sandstone and also stock Bath, Iron and Lias stone. Cotswold Hill Stone and Masonry provide a tailor made and a comprehensive service, supplying building, landscaping stone, revetment, and aggregates as well as masonry stone.

The Pennant sandstone from the Birch Hill Quarry is an alluring blue and grey colour that is becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a more modern aesthetic.

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Eco Clipper FM4 Sport for sporting grounds

With such a wide range of services and wealth of knowledge, it’s easy to see why so many private and commercial clients across a multitude of industries seek out their stellar services.

If you would like to get into contact or view some of their wide range of stone, then be sure to give them a call. Additional information on both quarries and their services can be found by visiting their website, detailed below.

T 01386 584384 www.stonequarries.co.uk

Eco Clipper offers large area mowers that help field managers minimise mowing costs while producing a professional cut.

The Eco Clipper mowing system was originally developed to replace the cylinder mower in turfgrass production. The aim was to retain the cutting performance of a well-tuned cylinder mower, but not the high maintenance requirements and sensitivity to mowing conditions, such as wet grass and weeds.

The system The smooth cutting decks with fast spinning small blades ensure a high quality of cut and a good distribution of clippings. Even in wet grass, the clippings are well distributed. This makes it possible to schedule this mower almost independently of the weather.

Thanks to the electrically driven blades, the mower is very economical and quiet. The large wheels and smart mower deck linking system ensure good contour following and enable high mowing speeds.

Municipalities and sports field and park managers have also discovered the advantages of the Eco Clipper mowing system. For them, Eco Clipper offers the EC-FM4 Sport.

This 4.11m wide mower has four independent mowing decks. Its position in front of the tractor provides excellent visibility and comfort for the tractor driver.

The benefits Users report high productivity gains, a factor two compared to 5-gang self-propelled cylinder mowers, and appreciate the low maintenance need and the ability to schedule the mowing even in less favourable mowing conditions, such as early morning dew and wet autumn. info@vanmac.co.uk www.ecoclipper.com

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Underfloor Heating & Liquid Floor Screed Specialists

Easyflow are Underfloor Heating & Liquid Floor Screed Specialists offering the highest quality innovative solutions for underfloor heating. As well as being extremely cost effective, underfloor heating is proven to provide a more comfortable and even temperature throughout the room.

Easyflow offer hassle-free underfloor heating systems that include Premium manifold for boilers, Flow rate adjusters, 500-gauge polythene separating membrane, CAD drawings, a complete manual, & much more.

Liquid floor screeding provides fast, efficient and precise floor

covering with many advantages over traditional screed solutions.

It is ideal for underfloor heating installers to place, as the liquid screed flows around the pipes, forming a void-free finish.

Using a range of innovative, pumpable liquid screeds to suit your specific requirements, it is the ideal solution if time constraints are your biggest concern, and works best in areas that require extra strength & higher depths.

To discuss all your underfloor heating and screed needs and more, get in touch below: T 01743 298001 www.easyflow.org.uk

Panasonic introduces ZY Series to its Advanced Energy Recovery Ventilation range Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions is launching its new Advanced Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) ZY Series. The new series consists of an extended 9 model line-up including a 2,000m3/h model, all integrated with DC motors with independent control setting for air supply and exhaust.

An ERV is essential to buildings to provide fresh filtered air inside.

Through its ventilation system it ensures the air is not contaminated nor contains any odours potentially penetrating the new supply of air.

The units possess an external static pressure (ESP) advancing up to 150 Pa with an F7 grade filter built-in as standard. In addition to this, the new ZY series has an impressive recovery power of up to 83% of heat exchange efficiency. This high recovery rate further optimises cost and can be considered a sustainable solution.

Incorporated into the new models is two backdraft shutters, unique to Panasonic. Its key role is to prevent air flowing in the wrong direction

when the ERV is turned off and not operating. Additionally, the ERV has three connection options available: group control with a maximum of two ERV systems, direct connection to field supply switch, and ERV operation in conjunction with heating and cooling systems.

The ZY series also introduces a new remote controller. Information is clearly visible through a black light and white background whilst also containing a backbox as standard.

The controller is available to be integrated with BMS through the RS485 terminal. www.aircon.panasonic.eu

Building & Construction Products & Services

NE Fasteners celebrating 38 years 1985-2023

Service Sealing Solutions visit DOYMA

NE Fasteners Limited, a family owned company is celebrating its 35th year of business. With Nigel Elliott setting up in his garage in Halesowen, it soon became apparent his in-depth knowledge and expertise of the trade was invaluable and he is still very much involved on a day to day basis.

This would not have happened without loyal and supportive customers, suppliers and staff alike.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd is the sole UK distributor for the sealing industry's top manufacturers; DOYMA and HKD. Service Sealing Solutions Ltd supply the full range of DOYMA and HKD products, to suit all situations from sealing power cables, communications cables, pipes and ducts and district heating pipes, permanently preventing an infiltration of gases and water into the building.

DOYMA's products are designed to solve all watertight sealing requirements and prevent against structural damage. DOYMA products are also guaranteed watertight for 25 years.

We primarily specialise in screws fixings & fasteners for the DIY, hardware, building, joinery and furniture manufacturing sectors. NE Fasteners prides itself with offering expertise, competitive prices from local and internationally sourced standard and bespoke products.

Our warehouse is situated in a 7,000ft2 warehouse in Cradley Heath in the West Midlands, we are able to provide a wide range of finishes, including zinc, electro brass, black chrome, satin chrome, bronze

and nickel, and packaging options, ensuring that many buyers consider us to be a key and valued supplier.

More recently, Screwshop has evolved from its established sister company NE Fasteners and has also proven a huge success with its online shop. After 5 years in operation, we have grown year on year and seen an increase in sales with the recent lockdown. We are now looking to increase stock and make it even easier for customers to order.

With friendly and experienced staff, our aim is to offer excellent service with our next day deliveries and give an opportunity for our customers to let us manage all fixings, fasteners and component requirements competitively.

Have a look at our online shop at: www.screwshop.co.uk or give us a call on 0121 559 8866 with your enquiries and we will give you our best attention & prices at all times.

Husband and wife team, Jim & Tina have recently visited DOYMA in Germany to find out about the innovative products that DOYMA have been developing

HKD which is now owned by DOYMA, manufactures a vast range of pipe sealing systems and service ducts with a guarantee that its products can withstand up to four bars of pressure. All of the HKD product range can be combined with the DOYMA's Curaflex range, one of the most popular DOYMA ranges.

the highest level of expertise to developers and specifiers for sealing against water and gas entering around service entries in basements and high-rise buildings.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd specialises in high-quality service duct sealing systems for utility services & watertight seals, offering

Contact T 01952 510050 tina@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk

Carlisle builds on innovation with ARBOFLEX liquid system CARLISLE® Construction Materials continues to go from strength to strength with its liquid applied roofing membrane system, ARBOFLEX®PU. The BBA certified, wet-on-wet PU waterproofing system provides a completely monolithic roof, with no flames, no laps and no heat.

ARBOFLEX®PU is suitable for both new build and refurbishment projects and does not require the application of a primer, except on porous concrete surfaces. The single component, ARBOFLEX®PU liquid membrane is a single component system and, after the first application, a glass fibre matting is laid onto the wet membrane and rollered to draw the liquid through.

The glass fibre matt makes detailing easier and efficient for improved performance. It also enables the roofing contractor to verify that they have applied the correct amount of liquid membrane to the substrate, avoiding any risk of blistering or cracking.

ARBOFLEX®PU system requires no mixing, usually needs no primer and enables

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simple quality checks. It is also faster and easier to install than traditional roofing systems, making it a cost-effective option.

ARBOFLEX®PU is available as a single component 10 year system or with a U/V protective top cost to extend the warranty to 20 years. It is suitable for any flat roof, podium deck, terrace, balcony or walkway.

ARBOFLEX®PU is ideal for refurbishment onto virtually any legacy system and provides a seamless, monolithic roof surface, making it perfect for roofs or balconies that are visible from above. It is a versatile addition to our flat roofing range, building on an already marketleading portfolio.

Here are some of the key benefits of ARBOFLEX®PU liquid waterproofing: s Flame- and heat-free installation – Instantly water-resistant s Ready to use straight out of the tin – single component PU s Weather-resistant: can be used all year round s BBA Certified

s Adapts to any surface such as uneven, curved or irregular surfaces s No laps or joints s Seamless, monolithic roof surface ARBOFLEX® is available now from Carlisle Construction Materials or at any leading roofing distributor.

For sales and distribution enquiries: T 01623 627285 info.uk@ccm-europe.com www.ccm-europe.com

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Building & Construction Products & Services

Building materials to the trade

Lime Plasters & Renders Established in 1998 and now in its 25th year Ecomerchant is a successful independent employee-owned business that supplies building materials to the trade, covering the whole of the UK from a number of warehouse locations. Based on the core values of ethical trading, healthy materials, and sustainability, Ecomerchant has built up an excellent reputation as the ‘go-to’ source of reliable and proven construction materials.

Ecomerchant considers the whole product supply chain from raw material production to end use, to ensure not only the lowest possible environmental impact but also endeavour to ensure that there are no negative impacts on human health. Issues such as building durability and indoor air quality are high on Ecomerchant’s agenda for consideration.

Key to any design is durability, carbon reduction, cost and quality. Ecomerchant has developed solutions with combinations of products which give best performance with least impact on our planet at the most affordable rates. Please contact us to find out about our range of sustainable building solutions. Ecomerchant promotes a fabric-first approach to building looking to reduce the operational energy required, the more efficient the building is the more the importance of material choice increases as it becomes the main source of embodied

Natural Insulation

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Airtight Membranes

Ecomerchant covers the whole of the UK from its base at the National Self-Build and Renovation Centre in Swindon energy or potential to pollute. Our product ranges are targeted at this basic approach to construction, get the fabric right first.

Ecomerchant supplies materials to a wide range of construction areas including private housing, self/custom build, refurb, renovation and restoration, social housing and the health and education sectors, these sectors are the ones that tend to build beyond Regs often up to Passive House standards, it is these customers that will help drive change and raise standards in UK construction, it won’t be done through building to minimum standards but by a desire to build better, more durable, healthier buildings, this is where some of the best examples of genuinely sustainable construction can be found.

Ecomerchant supplies a vast range of materials including, insulation, airtightness, sheet materials, performance windows and doors, lime and clay plasters, renders and mortars, natural paints, off-grid systems, groundwork and landscaping materials and much more all chosen to help create healthier and more energy efficient homes, schools and workplaces.

Ecomerchant offer a responsive and flexible approach to ordering building materials.

In addition, there is a wealth of news, informative articles, videos and technical information hosted on the website plus regular newsletters to keep subscribers up to speed on building materials & best practice.

Services and products: s Insulation, wood fibre insulation boards and batts, sheep’s wool, hemp and cellulose s Airtightness membranes tapes & accessories s Lime Plasters, mortars, renders, putties and paints s Internal wall insulation s External wall insulation s Boards and sheet materials s Roofing materials s Paints, and timber protection s Lime floor screeds s Performance timber windows and doors s Roof Lights and Sun pipes s Steel Guttering s Rainwater harvesting s Sewage Treatment s Erosion control and water management s Natural landscaping geotextiles and weed control s Natural cleaning and maintenance products Visit the website to see more; many products are available to buy online.

Ecomerchant’s knowledgeable and helpful staff will be happy to price your enquiry, answer technical questions, take orders or provide quotations.

T 01793 847444 info@ecomerchant.co.uk www.ecomerchant.co.uk

Liquid Applied Airtight Membranes

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Environmental

Sustainable help is on its way for the hotel sector According to research by ABN Amro, 78.6% in the hotel industry see high energy prices as a threat to margins. In fact, 56.3% see energy savings as their key priority. But, 42% of hotel leaders, see funding as a barrier to decarbonise.

The award-winning company R8 Technologies helps clients in 17 countries save energy and provide more comfortable hotels.

Achieved energy savings are in the region of 15-30%, by using the latest artificial intelligence control software, says Trevor Miles, UK Regional Manager for R8 Technologies. Helpfully, the typical period to achieve a return on investment is under 3 months, making it a very cost-effective way of improving energy use and

indoor climate.

In fact, R8 Tech also supports other large buildings such as offices, universities, shopping centres as well as hotels.

The company has won multiple awards from organisations including: Proptech Innovation Award 2023, Corporate Vision Artificial Intelligence Award 2021 and Tech Rocketship Award 2021 (UK DTI).

R8 Tech works with existing Building Management Systems/Building Automation Systems so no additional capital expenditure is normally required.

Contact: Trevor Miles, UK Area Manager, R8 Technologies M 07734 325047 trevor.miles@r8tech.io

ESG’s simplified website Environmental Science Group Ltd (ESG), a renowned leader in the compliance and chemical regulation sector, is thrilled to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website. With a fresh look and userfriendly interface, the revamped website aims to simplify the consumer experience and provide enhanced access to ESG’s core expertise.

In line with ESG’s strategy to prioritise and focus its services, the redesigned website offers a more streamlined approach, allowing consumers to more easily access services, such as Safety Data Sheet authoring and checking, hazard sheet software purchases and the ability to register for training. By narrowing its service offerings, ESG aims to provide unparalleled expertise and exceptional quality, ensuring customer satisfaction at every interaction.

The redesigned website coincides with a change of web address. As ESG gear up to celebrate 30 years in business, they pay homage to their trading roots by reinstating the web address which started it all, www.esldatasheets.com. “We are thrilled to unveil our redesigned website and introduce our new web

address to our valued customers, some of whom have been with us long enough to recall when we traded as ESL, and who will hopefully appreciate a return to our roots,” said Roy Simmons, Director at ESG. Sam Awolesi, Chief Executive Officer at ESG, says, “By simplifying our website and narrowing our services, we can better serve our customers, focus our expertise and deliver the highest level of quality, on which our reputation has built all these years.” www.esldatasheets.com

Building & Construction Products & Services

Making monitoring & control mobile GSM Activate is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of high quality electronics and access control devices, which specialises in GSM (simcards) based technology. Based in West Sussex, UK, GSM Activate provides reliable and durable GSM enabled electronic products.

GSM Activate provides equipment which can be used for security, monitoring & control solutions for use in customers’ homes or for their business needs. The company’s range of products has been designed to incorporate the use of a simcard which enables the user to use their mobile phone as the key component in security, access control and automation

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applications. For example, GSM diallers for phone alerts from alarm panels, or sensors; GSM switches to turn on appliances remotely, etc.

Renowned for its reliability opposed to WiFi, Bluetooth and others, GSM is extremely dependable for signal and there is no limit to range, enabling you to control and monitor your electronics from your mobile, wherever you are in the world.

GSM Activate is able to manufacture using the latest hardware enabling connections to 2G, 3G and 4G frequencies.

Contact T 01273 462380 www.gsm-activate.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Fuel Card Company of the Month

Putting the genie into fuel prices: Keeping your drivers moving, whatever your fleet size In this issue of Building & Facilities News, we are delighted to select fuelGenie as our Fuel Card Company of the Month The last few years have been turbulent in the fuel economy, with the wholesale price of crude oil sky-rocketing, further exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This has had a devastating impact on businesses with fleet vehicles, especially SMEs. While the electric vehicle (EV) industry is signalling the way to greener transportation and cost-savings longterm, many smaller companies can’t afford to take the leap to EV just yet. In the meantime, the fleet industry can benefit from smart travel planning and fuel cards, offered by companies such as fuelGenie.

We spoke to Tony Burgess, Director – Merchant network at fuelGenie, to find out how the fuel card can support fleet managers, “As a trusted business fuel card provider, fuelGenie enables its customers to take advantage of many competitive benefits, such as: low-cost supermarket fuel prices; no account fees, card fees or hidden surcharges; no limit on how many fuelGenie cards can be added to a single business account; complete control with online or in-app “fuelGenie+ provides more locations, flexibility and benefits for just a small card fee per month, for each driver. We offer credit terms and provide HMRC-compliant invoices to help businesses spend more time helping their clients and less time sorting petty cash or reimbursing expenses.

The company operating fuelGenie was established in 1997 and is owned & operated

by Worldline IT Services UK Limited. fuelGenie itself was launched as a product in 2009.

Operating out of its base in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, fuelGenie offers fleet managers and small businesses a completely free fuel card, with no minimum spend.

What’s the catch, you may ask?

There is none – this is a fully transparent fuel solution for fleet services, optimising fuel efficiency costs and providing buoyancy in a time of inflated fuel prices. It is easy to use online, with handy in-app management and no hidden costs or fees.

“Our handy app also allows drivers to find their nearest fuelGenie or fuelGenie+ station on an interactive map with details on fuel prices to help find the best deal.”

account management; visibility of nearest petrol station with the fuelGenie app; and the ability to collect supermarket loyalty on Tesco Clubcard, Morrisons More and Nectar cards at Sainsbury’s.

“With fuelGenie, you pay the price displayed at the pump, not a price calculated centrally as happens with some other fuel cards. Our primary customers are fleet owners & small business leaders – from sole traders who operate multiple vehicles, to larger corporates or even public sector organisations. “fuelGenie recently expanded its petrol station network with the launch of a new fuel card, fuelGenie+, which can be used at most Shell forecourts. The deal we struck with Shell bolstered our network by more than 900 sites, bringing our total to around 2,200 in the UK.

The app has already proved popular, with almost 40,000 downloads so far, with its enhanced features. Managers can manage drivers’ card details directly from the app, such as driver’s name, vehicle registration and card limits, with full edit details available to authorised users. Further updates include viewing all previously cancelled cards, allowing users to hold a detailed record, helping streamline past and present invoices. fuelGenie cards are a great way for businesses and fleet managers to have control and visibility of spend, and fuelGenie’s proposition ensures drivers go for better value outlets than some of the major brands, giving you more miles for your money.

Looking to the future, fuelGenie is already looking into the gradual transition to electric vehicles (EV) across the industry and will unveil plans in the coming months.

To apply for your fuelGenie card today, see the website below: T 0345 371 2490 enquiries@fuelgenie.co.uk www.fuelgenie.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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Water Management

Wrap it or regret it – now! householders or occupiers.

The improvement in work efficiency and reduction on the impact to occupants is a win for both contractor and customer. There is also little impact to the exterior appearance of the property, as the INSUduct system provides a neat, clean finish to the job – perfect for planned replacements of old lead water supply pipes.

Burst pipes are the most common cause of home insurance claims in the UK [1] and cost an average of £3,500 in damage to property and contents. The expense is not the worst of it; months of disruption follows as the property is dried out and repaired.

Throughout the winter, frost is the greatest threat to water services. UK Water Regulations require any fitting or apparatus to be correctly insulated to prevent frost, unless in a location that is heated for more than 12 hours a day [2].

It seems obvious when you are scraping the ice from the car on a frosty morning. However, the insurance claims show that many homeowners, landlords and tenants seem to be unaware of this requirement.

In the worst-case scenario, the replacement of water supply pipes is required. Traditionally this has required major excavations outside a property and usually a great deal of disruption and trauma within, over several days and possibly weeks – inevitably at high cost.

Water supply replacement – an easy alternative!

Whether or not the cause is bad weather, the replacement of a leaking, or an old and unreliable water supply can extend timelines and inflate costs, sometimes to the detriment of other aspects of a project. However, there is now a cost-effective solution to this previously expensive operation. The use of Groundbreaker’s INSUduct allows the new water service to be routed up the external face of the building and connected to the internal plumbing above ground level.

INSUduct is also perfect for redevelopment and refurbishment projects. It is the ideal product for the replacement of original lead water pipes, turning a disruptive and intrusive job into a quick and easy task.

INSUduct is also ideal for developments of multioccupancy properties.

Designed to optimise space within the insulating casing, up to three 32mm OD water pipes can be installed to the exterior of the building, allowing supplies to be installed at multiple levels of a property with a single insulated duct running up the property exterior.

Groundbreaker products are designed to provide long lasting and effective thermal protection to water pipes and fittings outside the thermal envelope of a building. They offer frost protection for 3 days or more with temperatures as low as -15°C – temperatures we rarely reach in the UK, even with today’s erratic climate!

Carefully fabricated to provide long lasting and effective thermal protection to water pipes and fittings in external situations, the products exceed British Standard 5422 and all relevant Water Regulations for frost protection.

Steve Leigh, developer of the range and Managing Director of Groundbreaker, has over 40 years’ experience in the water industry.

“We’ve been putting pipes in holes in the

INSUduct only requires one simple core drilled hole through the wall, at an appropriate point to connect with the internal plumbing.

This enables most water supply replacements to be completed within a couple of hours, without the traditional mess and disruption to the

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BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Water Management

Don’t let the cold catch you out this winter innovative product enabling easy installation of water supply in situations where water pipes cannot be laid at the recommended depth of 750mm – eg. over rock, concrete, tree roots, etc.

SHalloduct offers a viable alternative to expensive excavations or damage to the local environment.

Fabricated to the same high thermal resistivity as INSUduct, SHalloduct offers a practical solution to awkward situations.

ground to protect them from frost for decades,” he explained. “Although it works, today’s new materials allow for a much better solution.

“Keeping pipes on the surface reduces the risk of leaks developing and allows for easy repair and maintenance. It’s just a much better method of working.”

This isn’t just Steve’s opinion. INSUDUCT is the preferred method of water supply replacement by a number of UK water companies, and back in 2018, Groundbreaker was recognised by the HBF (Home Builders Federation) as the Utility Company of the Year for its innovative range that meets the highest standards in both product specification and leak free installation design.

Products are available through most builders' merchants and online, details are available on the ‘where to buy’ pages of the Groundbreaker website.

For more information and applications, why not sign up for Groundbreaker’s occasional newsletter for up-to-date industry information and product news via email or online?

T 01379 741993 sales@groundbreaker.co.uk www.groundbreaker.co.uk 1. www.lovemoney.com/news/19726/themostcommon-home-insurance-claims 2. www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/1148/made 3. https://bpec.org.uk/qualification/ groundworkservice-pipe-and-meter-housinginstallation

The company is also a contributor to the BPEC (British Plumbing Employers Council) Groundworker, Service Pipe and Meter Housing Installation Training course [3]. The course highlights the elements of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, relevant to groundwork and ensures contractors have met the minimum competency requirements for entry into WIAPS Approved Contractors Scheme (Groundworker Section).

In addition to INSUduct, the Groundbreaker range includes SHalloduct. Another

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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Health & Safety

Mitigate the potential for falls from height with Bilco UK

According to recent figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height were the main type of fatal accident for workers between 2021/2022.

Architects can mitigate the potential for falls from height by specifying compliant roof safety products at the beginning of a building’s design to provide maximum protection for contractors when working at height.

Bilco UK’s portfolio of roof safety solutions includes: Fixed vertical ladders Fixed vertical ladders can be utilised across a diverse range of commercial and residential

applications and can be installed on the exterior of a building or internally with a roof access hatch or smoke vent.

Manufactured from corrosionresistant aluminium to meet the requirements of BS4211: 2005 + A1: 2008, the Bilco UK TYPE BL industrial Fixed Vertical Ladder is available in standard sizes for floor to ceiling heights of 2-6 metres.

If the ladder is to be mounted externally to provide access to a roof, it must be fitted with a safety cage and guard rail to ensure safe and secure access.

If designed to sit below a roof access hatch, at heights above 3

metres, a safety cage is required.

Manufactured in aluminium to meet BS4211: 2005 + A1: 2008, these additional safety features prevent individuals from falling backwards or sidewards and ensure compliance with Building Regulations.

Additional protection can be achieved with the specification of Bilco UK’s unique Ladder Up® Safety Post. The telescopic post mounts permanently to the top two rungs of any fixed ladder, providing a secure hand-hold and enabling the user to enter or exit the opening in an upright and balanced position.

Companionway ladders For permanent access via a roof hatch where the rise is less than 3 metres, companionway ladders provide the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Manufactured from aluminium to meet BS EN ISO 14122-03 2001 + A1 2010, BS 42112005+A12008 and BS 5395 Part 3, the Bilco UK TYPE

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BL-COMP companionway ladder is manufactured in four height ranges up to 3 metres.

BilGuard® 2.0 The BilGuard® 2.0 Fixed Roof Hatch Railing System provides a permanent means of fall protection around the top of roof hatch openings and has been developed to exceed OSHA Fall Protection Regulations (29 CFR 1910.23). The aluminium rail construction and non-penetrating attachment allows quick and easy installation on new or existing roof access hatches and smoke vents with capflashing.

The self-closing and latching gate feature ensures the opening is protected at all times.

Bilco UK can assist architects in successfully meeting the unique requirements of their project, whilst providing maximum fall protection and compliance.

For further information on its complete range of roof access solutions, visit: www.bilcouk. co.uk or call 01284 701696.

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Health & Safety

Enhanced productivity with highperformance error diagnosis Schmersal launches new version of the SD Gateway The Schmersal Group is about to launch a new version of the SD Gateway for its SD bus. Users will be able to take advantage of the improved fault diagnostics offered by the new SDG Fieldbus Gateway. This in turn will help to increase machine and plant productivity by minimising downtime and simplifying commissioning and maintenance.

The device is also user friendly and easy to install.

Electronic safety sensors and interlocks with SD interface can transmit comprehensive status and diagnostic data to a higher-level machine control system. Data from the serially connected switchgear is sent via the SD bus to the SDG fieldbus gateway and then passed on via the fieldbus to the machine control unit – enabling the forwarding of error messages such as overtemperature warnings, faulty actuator warnings and invalid actuator combination messages.

The diagnostic information is transmitted separately from safety signals.

Warning notifications enable controlled process shutdown and targeted maintenance so as to prevent process interruptions.

The new variant of the SD Gateway also offers a web server and has a microSD memory card and thus offers the following features: s Event logs can be evaluated in real time via the web interface. s Complete diagnostic data from all safety switchgear devices are displayed in plain text in the browser window.

s Devices, such as interlocks and control panels, can be controlled directly via the web interface. s The microSD card allows event logs to be exported for evaluation and long-term storage. s The configuration of the series connection is stored on the microSD card to enable seamless device replacement in case of error.

In the near future, Schmersal will further expand the functionalities of the SDG fieldbus gateway so that the data of the connected safety switchgear can be transmitted not only via EtherCAT, but also via the common fieldbus protocols PROFINET, EtherNet/IP and Modbus. In addition, networking options will be expanded through connection to IO-Link & OPC UA communication systems.

An additional and significant benefit of the SD bus system is being retained in the new Gateway: by connecting sensors and interlocks with the SD bus in series (an SD Gateway can communicate with up to 31 safety switchgear devices), this safety solution enables extremely lean wiring and reduces costs without sacrificing Performance Level (series connection for applications up to PL e). Setup and commissioning of an SD installation have been designed to be as convenient and straightforward as possible and all devices receive addresses from the Gateway automatically.

Contact: Steve Watkins, Marketing & Business Development T 01684 571980 swatkins@schmersal.com www.schmersal.co.uk

Facilities & Estate Management

High-end healthy hydration solution were looking to remove all plastic waste from the premises.

“The development of the bridge tower self-serve dispensing system with Smart Soda has been a complete success,” says Tricon Foodservice Consultants Project Director, Chantal Bourquin-Quéva.

With healthy hydration and sustainability as part of the brief, Smart Soda UK has recently installed a purpose-designed selfserve multi-drinks bridge tower dispensing system for Apollo Management International LLP at its new premises at No1 Soho Place, London.

Tricon Foodservice Consultants was appointed as sub-consultants by the project management team at Gensler, the architects, with a brief to deliver a system that provided a free-issue self-serve hydration solution plus a wide range of non- and low-sugar beverages. At the same time, they

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Tricon was also scoped with carrying out the tender process to bring a caterer for the site on board, and B-Corp certified Houston & Hawkes was selected.

“The bridge tower saves space and time, as we don’t need to store cans and bottles, or have rows of refrigerators, and we don’t have to manage lots of deliveries.

Removing single-use plastic from the site, also saves the time which would otherwise be devoted to separating and storing waste for collection for recycling,” says Houston and Hawkes general manager on site, Andre Welman. www.smartsoda.co.uk

phs Compliance appoints new Sales Director phs Compliance has appointed Tom Cliffe as its new Sales Director as part of its continued growth.

and safety. Working with over 35,000 business sites across the country, phs Compliance services include statutory electrical testing, including EET/PAT tests and fixed wire testing, inspection services, maintenance and remedial work.

Based in Warrington, phs Compliance is one of the UK's leading providers of facilities management and compliance services, working Speaking about Tom Cliffe, Sales Director closely with its his new role, Tom customers to offer everything said, "This is an exciting time to be businesses need to stay compliant joining the business. We had a great and keep their people safe at all year, set to be even stronger this times. year. We are in a confident position in the market as we launch our new Tom spent over 12 years in the range of bundle services, giving business services industry before customers the best value services. joining phs Compliance, which is part By bundling together our services, of the phs Group. He has extensive such as electrical and fire safety, we experience servicing the retail sector can offer our customers lower prices and had several big brand retailers as and greater efficiencies, carrying out part of his customer portfolio. everything they need to be safe and compliant in just one visit. It also Tom will be managing phs reduces mileage, keeping our carbon Compliance's sales team of 20 people footprint as low as we can.” across the UK, working closely with customers to ensure compliance www.phscompliance.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Facilities & Estate Management

What must the facilities management sector do to improve female recruitment?

By Danielle Le Breton, HR Director at Lanes Group HR leaders in every sector understand the growing importance of embracing the principles of gender parity in their hiring practices. This has been an unquestionably positive development - but it has also highlighted the fact that some industries have more work to do than others.

The facilities management sector is a case in point.

According to data from the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management, the male-to-female ratio in facilities management careers in the UK stood at 66% to 34% as of 2021 - an improvement on the previous year’s 68% to 32% ratio, but nevertheless serving as evidence that more progress still needs to be made.

As is the case with many male-dominated sectors, this recruitment gender gap cannot be addressed unless forward-thinking employers within the industry show leadership, and make a concerted effort to tackle the structural issues holding women back in FM workplaces. By doing so, they will not only be able to address the problem within their own organisation, but also set a positive example and lead the way for meaningful change across the sector.

What are the barriers that stop women from advancing in FM workplaces?

Every responsible employer will have already accepted the wisdom and moral necessity of working towards true gender parity in recruitment and employment. However, the difficulty of actually achieving this is rooted in the fact that many of the barriers stopping women from advancing in FM careers are not consciously created, but are instead the consequence of many years of embedded cultural norms.

Recently, we spoke to Elizabeth Donnelly, chief executive officer of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), about what she believes are the key structural barriers that women face in the workplace. She provided the following examples: s Denial of advancement at work from sceptical managers and employers, despite evidence of high achievement s Algorithms in evaluating CVs that mark down women when gender indicators are present s Male-coded job adverts that dissuade women from applying s Lack of pay transparency that leads to women not negotiating bigger salaries, and attitudes of recruiters that celebrate saving money on recruitment, but don’t appreciate they’ve increased their gender pay gap s Too many ‘essential’ criteria in job adverts that put women off applying, despite being wellqualified for the role, because women think they don’t fit the criteria s A lack of female role models on websites and in workplaces, resulting in women feeling they stand out - not every woman wants to be a trailblazer s Unconscious bias, where there is no intent to discriminate against women, but workplaces, working hours and deadlines have been created without considering the needs and responsibilities of women Some of the issues Ms Donnelly highlighted may come from failings on the part of individual managers or companies, but many are simply cultural norms that exist within the world of

recruitment. Until employers are able to take a step back and question some of the common assumptions that may be unconsciously affecting their approach to hiring, it will be difficult to achieve lasting progress in the effort to achieve true gender parity in facilities management.

What steps can employers take to better support women in the workplace?

Even though some of the obstacles to improved female recruitment are quite deep-rooted, it is absolutely possible to deliver meaningful improvements by committing to progressive, holistic changes in hiring practices. All employers within the FM industry need to be doing this in order to ensure that talented women have the support they need.

Here are just a few examples of the kind of support that we believe can make a real difference in ensuring women have an equal chance to succeed: s Offer opportunities to female job applicants who may not have experience in the sector, but can demonstrate the right transferable skills and work ethic to succeed s Review job listings to ensure they are not explicitly or implicitly male-coded s Provide flexible rotas and working hours that appeal to female staff seeking to maintain a healthy work-life balance s Offer childcare benefits to help staff accommodate their family commitments s Identify & address gender-based pay disparities s Implement a strong culture of training support and career progression options to give employees from all backgrounds a chance to grow their skills over time s Highlight female role models and mentors within the organisation, in order to support women in advancing their careers s Create an inclusive, friendly and cooperative working culture that values everyone’s voices and contributions equally Naturally, not all of these changes can be implemented overnight, and some may require long-term commitment to ongoing change and improvement. However, these steps should be seen as necessary if the goal of real gender equality is to be achieved.

What are the proven benefits of more inclusive workplaces?

Creating inclusive, equitable workplaces where anyone can succeed, regardless of their background, should be seen as a worthwhile goal

in and of itself. However, by successfully delivering on these improvements, employers will also discover that doing so will unlock a whole host of practical benefits for workers and businesses alike: s Bringing a wider range of perspectives and skills to the team, allowing the company as a whole to benefit from greater innovation and diversity of thought s Ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to fulfil their full potential and enjoy a long and rewarding career s Creating a positive and supportive working environment that improves morale, delivers better team cohesion and fosters true loyalty within the organisation s Giving the company access to a wider pool of potential talent, preventing the loss of potentially valuable workers to other, more inclusive employers or sectors s Showing that the company is committed to representing the communities it serves, and proving to conscientious clients that the business shares their dedication to ethical practices These benefits have been demonstrated by largescale studies such as McKinsey & Company’s 2019 analysis of data from more than 1,000 large companies from 15 countries, which revealed that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the bottom quartile. The data also showed that the greater the representation, the higher the likelihood of outperformance was observed.

Speaking to Lanes Group, Elizabeth Donnelly of the WES summarised this lesson by saying, “Be aware that employing women will change your company culture, often for the better, but you will reap rewards in terms of more profit and a better service. Change may be painful, but in the end, everyone will benefit. Women like to think they are part of something bigger and more important than themselves, and pitching your work as supporting the greater good will encourage more women to join.”

With the state of the UK economy continuing to throw up new challenges and unpredictable trading conditions, FM businesses will be looking for every opportunity to gain a competitive advantage. As such, forward-thinking organisations should be looking at the advantages that can be provided by improving their female hiring rates, and redouble their improvement efforts in order to unlock these holistic benefits as soon as possible.

T 0800 526 488 www.lanesfordrains.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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Fleet & Site Management

Driving change: The fuel The NeutraliZer™ finder scheme and the future of fair fuel pricing

By Tony Burgess (Director – Merchant Network, fuelGenie) The introduction of a government-backed scheme aimed at stopping supermarkets and fuel retailers from overcharging motorists could have a profound impact on how we make refuelling decisions.

Currently, retailers and supermarket forecourts only provide information on fuel prices at the actual petrol stations, which makes it challenging for drivers to compare costs and weakens competition.

The launch of a fuel finder open data scheme would mean that fuel retailers will be required to supply current pricing information and make it accessible to drivers in a userfriendly format, such as satnavs or a dedicated fuel finder app. However, legislative support would be needed for it to come into full effect.

For far too long, drivers have been left frustrated by the uncertainty of

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fluctuating fuel prices, often finding themselves at the mercy of market dynamics and unable to make informed decisions about where to fill up their tanks.

If supermarkets and fuel retailers are required to update and publish live prices, it would effectively eliminate the potential for arbitrary price hikes, ensuring fair competition in the market. With realtime price information available to all, fuel retailers will be held accountable for their pricing strategies.

By promoting a fuel market that is transparent about its pricing updates, where information is readily available to everyone, the scheme could foster an environment that benefits not only drivers, but also the industry as a whole.

To find out more about fuelGenie’s business fuel card offering: T 0345 371 2490 enquiries@fuelgenie.co.uk www.fuelgenie.co.uk

Initially developed

by Smart Storm for the Thames Tideway project, The NeutraliZer™ is a unique, mobile, in-line treatment plant that uses only CO2 to continuously neutralise concrete washout water.

and based on the readings, carbon dioxide (CO2) is automatically dissolved into the wash water flow to reduce the pH to a safe level for discharge; this happens on a continuous flow basis.

The concrete wash water issue The pH of concrete wash water from construction and building sites is highly caustic (pH 12-14) and very damaging to the environment if untreated. It is illegal to discharge without an acceptable pH level (usually 6-9).

Smart Storm’s USI, a multiple water parameter meter, provides a 7” touch screen interface for user-friendly operation. A Magflow flow meter monitors the effluent leaving the unit, which can treat up to 25m3 of wastewater per hour.

Equally, this applies to concrete wagon washouts to sewer and surface drains, where usually illegal to discharge below pH 6 and above pH 10.

CO2 dissolved in water is slightly acidic so is ideal for neutralising concrete wash water and CO2 self-buffers so cannot overdose no matter how much is injected.

This high alkaline wastewater is customarily treated with hazardous chemicals on a batch basis.

Available to purchase or hire; contact Smart Storm Ltd to find out more: T +44 (0)1422 363462 enquiries@smartstormgroup.com www.smartstormgroup.com www.twitter.com/smart_storm www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4P0Y05OtVgs

NeutraliZer™ CO2 concrete washout treatment The NeutraliZer™ works by monitoring the caustic washout with Smart Storm’s USM pH meter

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Doors, Windows & Joinery

New from Hörmann: Durable & hygienic double action doors Hörmann UK has launched a range of double action doors particularly suited to the food production and distribution markets.

Manufactured from polyethylene (PE500) or stainless steel, the doors are ideal for use in busy, high impact environments whilst meeting stringent hygiene standards. Both doors are available either as single or double leaf versions in a variety of colours and finishes.

Resistant to moisture, acids, and alkalis, Hörmann double action doors are suitable for use in a range of climatic conditions

within a temperature range of between -30°C to +60°C. The doors are fitted with shock-proof and maintenance free stainlesssteel hinges ensuring a long service life, with the option of 180º or 360º hinges allowing for maximum flexibility and clear access routes.

The PE version of the door is manufactured from 15mm moulded polyethylene. It is extremely robust having high impact resistance making it particularly suitable for areas of high movement and forklift traffic. It is offered in ten standard colour options, with three special colours including Traffic Red and RAL colours of choice. A range of glazing options and optional extras such as impact absorber profiles and finger guards, are also available.

For more sophisticated architectural requirements such as high-end catering establishments the stainless-steel door offers an elegant finish with a high-quality composite core for a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing design. The door consists of a 0.8mm thick stainless-steel sheet with a 40mm CFC-free PU hard foam core & it is available in two different

contemporary finishes – striped or circular.

Fitting of the doors is quick and easy as they are supplied pre-assembled with frames, door leaf and hinges to help save on fitting costs.

An innovative frame system also guarantees a stable wall connection for long-lasting and problem free door operation. In addition, as the doors are operated without power they are virtually maintenance free resulting in no on-going costs.

Hörmann double action doors are suitable for a wide variety of installations including catering outlets, supermarkets, food production facilities, cold storage, and warehousing. They can also be combined perfectly with fire sliding doors and insulating sliding doors, for example, in deep-freeze areas to help reduce cold losses and maintain ambient temperatures.

To find out more about Hörmann sectional doors, visit: www.hoermann.de/en/ innovations/detail/show/double-actiondoors-made-of-polyethylene-pe-and-stainlesssteel or call 01530 516868.

Maximum flexibility with new moveable centre support from Hörmann UK Hörmann UK, market leaders in the design and supply of industrial doors and loading systems, has introduced a new, innovative movable centre support for its industrial sectional doors. The centre support can be used to connect up to three industrial sectional doors, providing a flexible option to create large openings of up to 30m.

The new centre support is robust yet lightweight and can be quickly and easily pushed to the side on a lowfriction track which is installed behind the lintel. This provides operators with complete flexibility by allowing for individual door opening or, if required, the entire opening can be opened to allow clear passage across its complete width.

For use on Hörmann industrial sectional

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which consistently offer high quality materials, safe and secure operation, long life, and excellent thermal performance. The introduction of the moveable centre support for our industrial sectional doors is an innovation that further enhances the range and follows on from the introduction of our Series 60, which when fitted with our WA 500 FU operator can achieve market beating opening/closing speeds of 1m/s.

doors with a H track application, the moveable support is particularly suited for installations where large openings are commonly required, such as transport facilities, airports, large-scale manufacturing, fitting and service bays.

Phil Thorpe, Industrial Division Manager at Hörmann UK, comments, “At Hörmann we are committed to providing the market with a comprehensive range of industrial doors

“The moveable centre support has been designed to specifically provide operators with maximum flexibility and also offers developers the opportunity to build more adaptable, cost-effective facilities.”

To find out more about Hörmann sectional doors, visit: www.hoermann.de/en/ innovations/detail/show/industrialsectional-doors-with-movable-centresupport or call 01530 516868.

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Doors, Windows & Joinery

The experts in joinery fully finished state. Furthermore, excelling at attention-to-detail, the company ensures complete customer satisfaction, by providing products that are custom made to order and not available pre-made.

Boasting unrivalled skills, whether it’s for a small project or one-off custom made product such as a gate or stairs, or a larger scaled project like a production run of doors and windows for a new housing development, or commercial project; Bluerun has the skills and resources to deliver exactly what you need.

Established in 1991 by John Jones the current Managing Director, alongside his wife Doreen, Bluerun is a bespoke joinery manufacturer with over 30 years of experience.

Bluerun has established an impressive history, leading to a renowned reputation, positioning the company at the forefront of the industry for manufacturing top quality, purpose made joinery for the domestic and commercial markets.

Utilising its 7,000 square foot factory, the company can manufacture in hard or softwoods, and veneered and painted panels.

In addition, Bluerun also features its own modern spray paint and lacquer facility, enabling products to leave the factory in a

Through its notion of no job being too big or too small, Bluerun has worked on many varying sized projects including supplying items as small as a 1m length of moulding and one of its most unusual articles, Bluerun

produced a 10m high oak hardwood catapult for a castle.

Regarding recent events, the company has undergone new changes in response to challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. In early 2020, the Government announced that certain businesses would have to close and although officially Bluerun could have remained open as it is a manufacturer, Bluerun decided to close its doors. The company reopened in May 2020, and has gone from strength to strength, achieving unprecedented growth with an ever increasing flow of work.

Indeed, the company’s rich history, industry leading skillset and expertise has created an enviable reputation for quality, and Bluerun plans to continue growing and providing exceptional products and services for its customers.

T 01799 599995 www.bluerunltd.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Project & Site Management

Specialists in Safety we welcome the opportunity to bring such resources and benefits to our clients.

DCON Safety Consultants is passionate & highly committed to continually improving health, safety & 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 and 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

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 clients 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.

Providing a transparent, reliable service, DCON Safety Consultants has gained 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 & operation of their assets.

bodies. No project is too simple or too complex for its team of high-quality PSDP 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 PSDP service inputs and outputs.

For any further information on the company, please see the details featured below or give them a call on the number stated: T +353 (0)1 611 1556 www.dconsafety.com

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

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BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

DCON Safety Consultants is an independently owned Built Environmental Safety, Health & Wellbeing Consultancy We prioritise and specialise in the highest levels of informed & intelligent advice, senior project resource allocation and compliance assurance.

We know that every project with potential benefits also has potential risks with the art of planning centring on the co-ordination of these two zones of uncertainty. Our team of highly experienced construction professionals consistently ensures each client’s best interest and statutory conformity.

Recent Projects

If you would like to know more about the services we offer, please do not hesitate to contact us

DCON Safety Consultants, Suite 5, Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin 2, Ireland

+353 (0)1 611 1556 info@dconsafety.com www.dconsafety.com

Cleaning & Hygiene

It’s all in the gesture

First class career progression at Jangro Jangro, the UK & Ireland’s largest network of independent janitorial and cleaning distributors, is proud to announce that, after supporting her through a degree for the past four and a half years, Tammy Ladner has been promoted to Operations & Welfare Manager.

DoorBird presents the new contactfree call button module Ring the doorbell just by moving your hand: The innovative contactfree call button module makes access safe, easy, and healthy.

DoorBird launches another innovation: The new contact-free call button module enables doors to be opened without having to touch them. This technology was developed to promote safe, simple, and aseptic use, and not just in public areas. Ringing the doorbell by waving is the perfect solution for any building with a high level of foot traffic. Depending on the configuration, a gesture in front of the door intercom system can either ring the doorbell or open the door instantaneously.

A germ-free environment is critically important in public facilities such

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as hospitals, medical practices, and nursing homes to limit and prevent health risks for people. An IP video door station with a contact-free call button module can be useful in such places. Visitors can intuitively ring the doorbell by making a simple hand gesture and are also given direct visual feedback from the module.

The intelligent motion sensor detects both hand movements as well as a hand coming within 10cm/4 inch of the module. This also allows you to ring the doorbell even when holding a package in your hand, for instance.

Like a classic DoorBird call button, the module performs actions that can be freely configured on all DoorBird door stations, such as sending out a call signal as a push notification, triggering a relay or HTTP(S) command, or starting a SIP call.

Contact www.doorbird.com

During her 21 years as a Jangro employee, Tammy has been able to continually advance her professional development. The board at Jangro put her forward for this degree with a view to progressing her role.

Last month, she graduated from University of Bolton with a First-Class honours in BSc (Hons) Business Management – and was also awarded the Governors’ Prize for the Highest Final Assessment Academic Achievement.

In her new role, Tammy is working closely with CEO Joanne Gilliard and the senior team, as well as overseeing the running of the Head Office, whilst new appointment, Heather Crank-Ingham takes over the reins as Marketing Manager.

This is just one instance highlighting how Jangro works with its employees and invests in them to develop rewarding and interesting careers within the cleaning industry.

Tammy Ladner The company also has close links with the local community in Bolton (the site of Jangro HQ) to promote careers in the sector. For example, it recently collaborated with University of Bolton on projects which gave students an insight into the topics involved in the cleaning industry.

As a Living Wage Employer, Jangro is passionate about ensuring its workforce feel valued, are treated fairly, and paid a wage that reflects their hard work and the benefits that they bring to the organisation.

For more information, go to: www. jangro.net or call 01204 795955.

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Classifieds DIY & Home Improvement

Tree Consultancy Services

Joinery

TREE SURVEYS ADVANCED ASSESSMENTS PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

01423 322371

Technology Services

info@barnesassociates.co.uk www.barnesassociates.co.uk

dee@bluerunltd.co.uk www.bluerunltd.co.uk

Screws & Fixings

Meters & Metering Equipment

Security Solutions

Structural Thermal Bridging Solutions

01799 599995

cadline.co.uk Existing building safety and your digital transformation journey...

Cleaning & Facilities Services

01274 591115 info@armatherm.com www.armatherm.co.uk

Commercial cleaning and facilities services across the UK 0161 972 3000 info@floorbrite.co.uk www.floorbrite.co.uk

Fixings

Automated Gates, Barriers & Access Control

T 01442 253341 info@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk

Site Management

Hinges

SWIFIX AWARD-WINNING FIXINGS FOR EWI & MMC Swifix fixings have been designed and developed specifically for refitting and installing lightweight and heavy items through EWI systems. The fixings can be used during or after the EWI system installation, providing a cost-effective and maintenance-free solution, while also ensuring the integrity and protection of the EWI system. Fully tested and recommended by numerous EWI system providers and installers, the fixings are manufactured from high quality recycled plastic and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to enhance newly installed external wall insulation.

Fixings are available from www.swifix.co.uk and from various distributors and builders’ merchants throughout the UK

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ModCon Cabin Trader, the Modular, Portable Building & Plant Industry related, Resale/Auction website

Quality hinges for over 200 years

Steel AV Cabins Smoking Shelters Chemical Stores & Storage Units Staircases & Steps Effluent Tanks Water Bowsers Turnstiles

www.modconcabintrader.com

01827 633391 sales@goldwassallhinges.co.uk

T +44 (0)333 404 8822 M 07842 318869 alan@modconcabintrader.co.uk www.modconcabins.co.uk

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Classifieds Sustainable Building

Gutter & Roof Refurb Systems

Underfloor Heating 01743 298001

www.easyflow.org.uk

Hassle-free Underfloor Heating & Liquid Floor Screed service providers across the UK Site Management

Construction Software

Humidity Control

Experts in construction project co-ordination and management 01924 255666 | 07483 164372 fennellgreenandbates@gmail.com

Control Solutions The GSM Multi Switch (12v)

From £90 excl. VAT

Boost products and productivity with reliable humidity control 01372 571200 www.humiditysolutions.co.uk

Liquid Waterproofing

Waterproof Floor Outlet

Waterproofing and Sealing Solutions for Flat Roofs, Façades and Buildings

0203 286 7949 www.simonbox.co.uk

Activation | Monitoring Supervision & Control Solutions using your phone as the remote controller

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

Water Heaters

01623 627285 info.uk@ccm-europe.com www.ccm-europe.com/gb/

Simonbox IP66 Waterproof Floor Outlet

Safety Consultants

Leaders in Built Environmental Safety and Health and Wellbeing Consultancy

Facilities Management

KEEP YOUR PROPERTY AND POSSESSIONS SAFE AND SECURE

MX1 DOOR JAMMER

+353 (0)1 611 1556 info@dconsafety.com www.dconsafety.com

MX2 REMOVABLE JAMMER

PX3 FRENCH DOOR SECURITY BAR

SEE OUR FULL RANGE AT: WWW.SECURIAN.STORE INFO@SECURIAN.STORE | 0330 333 7279

BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

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