Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our February issue, where we dive into the latest advancements, practical insights, and groundbreaking innovations shaping the building and facilities industries.
Turn to page 5 for our spotlight feature on The Bradclad Group, our Metal Roofing Company of the Month.
The Bradclad Group is a conglomerate of companies specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of metal roof systems and related products. As one of the leading manufacturers of standing seam roof systems, we explore both the Pro-Zip and Pro-
Seam brands, and why they are so crucial for supporting metal roofing.
Company of the Month 5
The Bradclad Group is a conglomerate of companies specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of metal roof systems and related products.
Facilities & Estate Management 8
It is the responsibility of facilities managers to ensure that buildings cater to the needs of all individuals, regardless of ability.
Health & Safety 10
CheckedSafe is the only UK company to develop and launch the GB Domestic Hours app.
Cleaning & Hygiene 14
Leading microbiological testing house, MSL Solution Providers, is calling on companies to ensure compliance with Awaab’s Law.
On page 9, we highlight Fridgenius, a company that is revolutionising HVAC/R with the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet. Suitable for usage in refrigeration, air-conditioning, water, oil and gas installations, the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet features a compact design and a high usability application that has already been widely praised by engineers across the HVAC industry.
On the Cover
Nicola Tromans Editor & Office Manager
Olympus Crew is an established Leeds and London based events crew that has collaborated with over 250 clients worldwide, boasting a team of more than 150 crew members. From contributing to iconic stadiums like Wembley, Olympus Crew’s expertise cover major live events, high-profile sports branding initiatives, and music festivals. Page 8.
Other topics covered: Facilities & Estate Management, Project & Site Management, Health & Safety, Water Management, Cleaning & Hygiene, Building & Construction, Doors, Windows & Joinery, Green News.
Share all news: info@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Fridgenius 9
For over 25 years, Fridgenius has been committed to manufacturing and supplying National and International Distributors & Partners with the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet..
Building & Construction 18
Multi-awardwinning Kedel is a leading business founded on sustainable best practices, with a range of recycled plastic alternatives to wooden products.
Doors, Windows & Joinery 22
Hörmann are working with Skanska UK on a £259 million Ministry of Defence contract to deliver the Vehicle Storage Support Programme (VSSP).
London railway arches transformed for industrial use
Stephen George + Partners (SGP) is thrilled to announce that completion has been reached on the transformation of six vacant railway arches into highspecification commercial premises for light industrial use, located just 16 minutes away from the City of London. Benefitting from good loading/parking facilities, the design and style of the refurbished arches on Witan Street, Bethnal Green, create an on-brand aesthetic for light industrial use which should prove attractive to potential tenants in the current marketplace.
Josh White, Architectural Technologist at SGP, says, “As design architect for the scheme,
we have drawn on both our technical expertise and proven track record delivering industrial buildings to create contemporary spaces to suit a variety of industrial occupiers. Part of the development challenge from an architectural perspective has been to maximise the tenantable area and we worked closely with The Arch Company to deliver modern industrial spaces that allow maximum flexibility for future tenant fit-out.”
SGP Studio Director, Alan Soper, comments, “Urban industrial property can play a vital part in local economies, yet good-sized, modern industrial space close to central London is often difficult to find. That’s why we’re delighted to be working with The Arch Company on the transformation of these arches on Witan Street into vital commercial spaces that will suit a variety of industrial occupiers and support their daily operations in a location close to the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world.”
www.stephengeorge.co.uk
The Blade tops BREEAM rating in Berkshire
The Blade has been awarded the highest BREEAM rating for any Berkshire office building, recognising the building’s blend of sustainable design and eco credentials. As well as achieving top recognition in the region, The Blade has also been listed in BREEAM’s top 20 buildings across the whole of the UK, placing 13th for the BREEAM In-use International Commercial V6 Part 2 Management Performance scheme.
BREEAM (Building Research
Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology) assesses building performance based on a range of environmental credentials and is used across 70 countries. Buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions and are a major contributor to climate change. Using the BREEAM framework helps buildings to minimise their impact and perform more sustainably. The Blade has been certified with a Very Good BREEAM rating, and rates in the top 13% of all BREEAM In-use International Commercial V6
schemes globally.
Nick Turner, Asset Manager at The Blade, comments, “Hearing that The Blade has secured such an impressive BREEAM rating was fantastic. We understand that for many businesses choosing where to be based is an important decision. And we also know that a growing number want to be centred at a location which delivers on sustainability and eco-credentials – as well as more established aspects such as location, transport links and prestige. We’re very proud to have achieved such a high mark of quality for The Blade’s sustainable construction and day to day operations.”
The BREEAM assessment covers a wide range of sustainable practices including design, construction, energy use, carbon emissions, water consumption, health and wellbeing, pollution, transport, materials, waste, ecology and management.
www.thebladereading.com
Metal Roofing Company of the Month
Solar Roofing Systems
In this issue of Building & Facilities News, we are pleased to feature The Bradclad Group as our Metal Roofing Company of the Month
The Bradclad Group is a conglomerate of companies specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of metal roof systems and related products.
With over 30 years of expertise in standing seam roof systems, the group has built a strong reputation for quality and innovation.
The first Bradclad Group company, Forrest Maughan Associates, was established in 1992 as a consultancy to advise architects on how best to design aluminium roof systems.
Today, the company specialise in the manufacture and supply of secret fix metal roofing systems under the Pro-Zip and Pro-Seam brands.
“We are one of the leading manufacturers of standing seam roof systems in the country. Our Pro-Zip panel system, launched in 1996 has been specified and installed onto some iconic projects worldwide, and our more recent Pro-Seam fully supported system is rapidly gaining market share here in the UK,” said Keith Bradley, CEO of Bradclad.
“Pro-Seam is a standing seam panel system designed for the UK's growing demand for fully supported metal roofing, especially in residential projects.
Featuring a ‘Snaplock’ design, panels are secured with stainless steel clips. Made from 3000 series aluminium alloy with a PVDF coating, Pro-Seam is coil-coated for durability and backed by a 30 year warranty.
also uses fixings that penetrate the outer skin of the roof and adds unwanted weight to the roof structure.
Energi-Roof uses the latest generation of lightweight thin film solar modules from leading global manufacturers. The cutting edge technology incorporates the most efficient solar-cells available.
“Our lightweight solar offer has now been developed in various forms under a separate business and brand – Solarbond. The concept of integrating solar modules into the roof system has now been extended to cover flat membrane roofs. We can also bond large format modules directly onto profiled metal roofs on factories and warehouses,” added Keith.
Solarbond offers an entirely new concept in roof mounted solar arrays – it’s all about the glue! It’s lightweight, thin film flexible solar panel technology has revolutionised the way we can design and install solar roof systems.
“Both our Pro-Zip and Pro-Seam panel systems are available with a unique addition – a lightweight flexible solar panel which is factory bonded into the pan of the roof sheet. The Energi-Roof concept was established to integrate the solar module into the roof. The solar panels are not clamped or screwed onto the roof – they are an integral part of it,” stated Keith.
Traditionally, solar panels have been based on glass crystalline technology and fixed after the roof system has been installed, using a structural framework. Not only is this slow and costly, it
How it works: Lightweight and ultra-thin, these adhesive-backed solar modules allow thin film solar cells to be seamlessly installed onto both flat and pitched metal roofs. Ideal for both new constructions and retrofits, this innovative design eliminates the need for frameworks, brackets, screws, or bolts!
Working alongside installers and architects, together with market leading manufacturers, Solarbond is enhancing the Net Zero vision by enabling clients to install lightweight solar arrays on roofs previously unable to take the weight of standard glass PV modules.
Bradclad’s product portfolio appeals to a wide range of clients from commercial sectors such as airport authorities and national housebuilders with large scale projects, to individuals or families who want to build a dream home or just renovate their existing place.
“Our knowledge and understanding of our product and its application is largely unmatched in our sector. While we do not install ourselves, we have decades of experience in the application of our roofing in its various forms. As a result, our products are widely specified by architects who appreciate the level of technical knowledge we are able to bring,” added Keith.
We then asked Keith what recent changes have been made to the company to optimise future growth.
“We have noticed a growing move by companies especially, to reduce their carbon footprint and reduce their energy costs. The market in particular has seen a vast increase in the interest of renewables too. Demand for our Solarbond product is growing rapidly and we are developing our product offer to reflect this.
“Currently, our Pro-Seam Energi-Roof is very popular. Few clients and certainly very few architects are keen to embrace black glass solar panels imposed on their new roofscape design. The integrated Energi-Roof solar modules are so much neater and allow the clean lines of the standing seam panels to remain well defined – as well as providing a high level of efficiency, so their popularity should not really be a surprise.”
Contact T 0191 233 6318 enquiries@bradclad.com www.bradclad.com
Proseam Energi-Roof on barn conversion, Peak District
Integrated Solarbond panels, workshop, Teesside
Proseam Energi-Roof, Minster precinct, York
Proseam panels in Anthracite, barn conversion, Cumbria
Facilities & Estate Management
The Stair Climbing Company
As the Facilities Management sector continues to focus on meeting its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals in 2025, there is an increasing responsibility to enhance accessibility and inclusivity across almost all properties in the UK. ESG and accessibility are closely connected, with inclusive environments directly contributing to the Social pillar of ESG. By making buildings more accessible, companies promote diversity and inclusivity, which are essential for building a positive reputation, ensuring employers provide employees with a solution to support a diverse workforce and make reasonable adjustments to their working environments.
It is the responsibility of facilities managers to ensure that buildings cater to the needs of all individuals, regardless of ability. This includes addressing accessibility in both new developments and existing properties. In many cases, retrofitting older buildings or those with limited space can present challenges when it comes to meeting the requirements of accessibility laws. While the installation of lifts or ramps may be ideal, it’s not always practical – especially in historic or space-constrained buildings.
A practical and cost-effective solution to this challenge is the Stair Climber. These mobility devices are designed to
help individuals with mobility impairments navigate stairs with ease, offering a viable alternative to more traditional accessibility solutions. Stair Climbers can be particularly beneficial when structural limitations, such as restricted building layouts prevent the installation of elevators or ramps.
Leeds and London based events crew
Olympus Crew was founded in 2018 under the expert leadership of Dominic, whose distinctive approach has fostered a thriving team. With seven years of hands-on experience as a warehouse assistant and later in event management, Dominic understands the demands of long hours and the value of a strong, supportive crew. He has instilled these core principles into the company’s ethos, ensuring a culture of dedication and teamwork.
The company has collaborated with over 250 clients worldwide and now boasts a team of more than 150 crew members across its Leeds and London bases. The workforce includes general loaders and unloaders, installers and breakers, FLT operators, van drivers, IPAF operators, and skilled carpenters – some with vinyling expertise – as well as audio-visual technicians.
array of industries, including contributions to iconic venues like Wembley Stadium, major live events, and high-profile sports branding initiatives. Additionally, its AV, carpentry, tipping, and loading teams have played a key role in numerous major music events over the years, including globally renowned festivals like Reading and Parklife.
Since COVID-19, Olympus Crew has focused on expanding its marquee services, maintaining a strong presence in the film industry. The team has frequently provided marquees for major productions at Pinewood and Leavesden Studios.
To find out more about its services and how you can book them for an event, see below.
M 07904 903452
Its expertise covers a diverse
info@olympuscrew.co.uk www.olympuscrew.co.uk
Not only do Stair Climbers make buildings more accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, but they also play a role in ensuring compliance with accessibility regulations such as the Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M. These laws mandate reasonable accommodations in public buildings, and Stair Climbers provide a compliant, practical solution for situations where permanent accessibility options are not feasible.
Facilities management and health and safety teams also have a duty of care to ensure the safety of employees in the event of evacuation. Stair Climbers are a great way to move wheelchair users downstairs safely and back up stairs in the event of lift failure and emergency evacuation, particularly excellent solutions for basement evacuation.
As ESG goals continue to shape the Facilities Management sector, integrating Stair Climbers into accessibility strategies is a smart, cost-effective way to enhance inclusivity. They offer a flexible and accessible alternative, ensuring that buildings remain welcoming to everyone while supporting broader ESG and social responsibility objectives.
Contact www.thestairclimbingcompany.com
Gates for added protection
For homeowners or businesses looking to improve security, installing a gate is a step in the right direction. Gates are an important deterrent in residential and business areas against opportunistic burglary or even vandalism, making homes and properties less of a target for criminals.
Castle Gates & Automation is a leading bespoke gate installation company, from wooden, metal to metal frames gates clad in wood or composite, with many other options available. The company is based in Great Gaddesden, Hertfordshire and can offer modern upgrading of existing gates, through to installations of bespoke, new designs. With an extensive portfolio, customers can choose from manual and automated gate options, with a further choice of above-ground, or concealed underground automated gate motors. For level driveways, homeowners can opt for sliding gates, if preferred.
For additional ease and convenience, each gate automation has a remotecontrol fob access, with keyboard entry systems or audio/video systems optionally available for added security measures. Intercoms have become standardised now with many homes and businesses around the country and Castle Gates & Automation can supply GSM Audio Intercoms, GSM Video Intercoms, Wired Audio Intercoms and Wired Video Intercoms.
Installing state-of-the-art CCTV gives optimised security, day and night and when you’re not at home or on holiday. Castle Gates & Automation provides an extensive range of cameras including: short and long range, through to wide-angles, so your whole property is always expertly covered.
Enquire today to find your perfect gate: T 01442 253341 enquiries@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Fridgenius: Revolutionising HVAC/R with the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet
For over 25 years, Fridgenius has been committed to manufacturing and supplying National and International Distributors & Partners with the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet. Initially established by entrepreneur businessman David Slydel, the company is now run by his son, Chris Slydel.
Suitable for usage in refrigeration, air-conditioning, water, oil and gas installations, the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet from Fridgenius features a compact design and a high usability application that has already been widely praised by
engineers across the HVAC industry.
What makes it so unique however, is its design which is similar to the design of a cotton reel, and when placed on a solenoid valve (with coil removed), it causes the armature to open and close. It can also be used effortlessly to recover refrigerant from a plant which has already been decommission and power removed. Furthermore, in urgent emergencies, when the solenoid valve coil fails, it is a lifesaver by keeping the system functioning, until a replacement coil is sourced and installed.
Engineers must be able to manually operate valves in a plant or system in the event of a fault, a power outage, or when the system is not yet wired or has been recently decommissioned with power removed. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet from Fridgenius provides a reliable solution, making it an essential tool for any HVAC/R service engineer.
Airzone HVAC control & integration solutions
Airzone, Europe’s leading manufacturer of HVAC control and integration systems has announced a formal UK launch. The strategic decision comes at a critical time for the UK in terms of remaining on track with the government’s net zero target.
Founded in 1997, Airzone has gained industrywide recognition for creating solutions that limit energy used to heat and cool buildings – one of the most significant contributors to global CO2 emissions.
Airzone proposes to work with UK HVAC installers, specifiers and integrators to drive building performance efficiencies to create homes and commercial spaces that provide the very best in energy and cost-effective comfort.
insights they need to ensure the effective specification of solutions that meet client requirements. The team will also be promoting solutions for multi-occupancy commercial buildings, such as hotels and offices, that provide integration of heating, cooling and indoor air quality to improve efficiencies and occupier comfort.
The UK teams will be focusing on
To support the company’s growth in the UK, Airzone has invested in a designated UK-based sales team. They will be working closely with installers, specifiers and integrators to provide the data and
Airzone’s residential solutions that are designed to manage heating including air source heat pumps, as they become more prevalent with legislation requirements in 2025. The Future Homes and Buildings Standards highlight the use of low-carbon technologies, particularly heat pumps, as a way to decarbonise buildings.
Contact www.airzonecontrol.com/gb/en
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet range consists of five sizes: 10mm, 15mm, 18mm, 20mm, and 24mm. Each magnet is pocket sized and easy to operate. The small tool with a big attraction is designed to convert electrically operated solenoid valves into hand-operated valves.
It can be used during testing and troubleshooting or manually activating and controlling direct solenoid valves, a pilot-operated 2-way solenoid valve, a 3-way reclaim valve, or a 4-way reversing valve.
If you require specific requirements, Fridgenius can manufacture to your specific needs, including colour and branding/logo printing. What’s more, there are no regulatory requirements when using a Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet.
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet is available through their network of worldwide distributors and partners. For further information, see below.
T 02381 550189 enquiries@fridgenius.com www.fridgenius.com
Scottish family installs UK’s first Panasonic M Series heat pump
A five-bedroom bungalow in Thurso, Scotland, is the first property in the UK to install the Panasonic Aquarea 9kW M Series heat pump.
Homeowner and experienced installer, Ryan Pollard of RDI Renewables, replaced his outdated gas combi boiler to meet the high hot water demands of his family of five, while reducing the property’s carbon footprint.
The homeowner, Ryan Pollard of RDI Renewables is a heat pump installer himself and specified a Panasonic Aquarea 9 kW M Series T-Cap monobloc air-to-water heat pump with Panasonic Smart and Service Cloud controls. The unit has also been linked to a third-party Open Energy Monitor (OEM) system to help track the performance and efficiency of the heat pump. So far, the results are proving very positive with a recording of a weekly SCOP average of 4.85, demonstrating its efficiency.
As an experienced installer, Ryan has fitted Panasonic products for over 12 years and has seen how the technology has developed over this time. Embracing the changes when they come, he was looking for a highly energy efficient heating solution that would lower his home’s carbon footprint but was powerful enough to provide sufficient domestic hot water to suit his family of five.
To find out more about the Panasonic wide range of heating and cooling solutions, please visit: www.aircon.panasonic.eu or visit RDI Renewables website at: www.rdirenewables.co.uk
& Safety
First building inspector competency certification scheme gains UKAS accreditation
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) has granted the UK’s first accreditation of a building inspector competency scheme. The accreditation has been awarded to the Building Safety Competency Foundation (BSCF) for its Building Control Inspector (BCI) competence certification scheme. UKAS carried out its assessment of the BCI competency certification scheme against the internationally recognised ISO/IEC 17024 standard (Conformity assessment: General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons).
new Building Inspector Competency Framework (BICoF). The Building Safety Act 2022 makes BICoF registration mandatory for all classes of building inspector, working in both the public and private sectors, in all types of buildings across England and Wales.
Successfully completing the BCI certification scheme is one of the three prescribed registration routes under the Building Safety Regulator’s (BSR)
Whilst the BICoF does not provide an exhaustive list of competency criteria, assessments under the BCI certification scheme include a review of the relevant qualifications, knowledge and experience academic/technical qualifications, as appropriate to each inspector’s role. Continuous professional development is another important aspect, as building inspectors must be reassessed every four years in order to maintain their BICoF registration.
A-SAFE marks 40 years with Red Dot Award win
A-SAFE, the global leader in advanced polymer safety guardrails, barriers, and bollards, has been recognised with an esteemed Red Dot Award for Product Design 2024 for its Industry 4.0-ready, active racking management product RackEye, powered by its IoT safety and efficiency platform, Conek. This recognition celebrates A-SAFE’s remarkable journey of innovation, quality, and industry leadership as the Elland-based company celebrates 40 years in business.
James Smith, Co-CEO at A-SAFE, comments, “As we celebrate 40 years at the forefront of workplace safety, winning this Red Dot Award really underpins our unwavering commitment to excellence in manufacturing, R&D, and disruptive innovation. We are dedicated to making A-SAFE not just a great place to work, but a company that delivers operational efficiency and productivity,
leading to a significant ROI for our customers. I want to thank David Edgar and his team for their hard work on this project. They have really made us proud.”
The Red Dot Award, established in 1955, is recognised as one of the most prestigious design competitions globally. A-SAFE’s accolade in the ‘Industrial and Manufacturing Equipment’ category underscores the company’s excellence in safety technology. The winning products Conek and RackEye, help manage warehouse safety by detecting impacts to racking and barrier systems. It provides real-time alerts and powerful insights enabling preventative action. Conek will be showcased alongside other winning products at the Red Dot Museum, in Essen, Germany, next year.
Contact www.asafe.com
The health & safety benefits of using CaberShield Eco
In the wettest of weather, building can carry on, with the H&S team reassured regarding slipresistance, supported by the fact that the boards are able to accept heavy traffic on a busy site without the level of grip deteriorating.
Contractors can reduce the risks of slips and falls, while ensuring high technical performance, by selecting the upgraded version of a popular flooring product from the range of West Fraser, the leading UK manufacturer of engineered wood-based panel products.
Able to withstand the vagaries of the British climate, as well as being immune to the spills of plaster or mortar that inevitably occur on site, CaberShield Eco boasts all of the inherent qualities of CaberFloor P5, as well as representing the latest sustainable solution for creating high specification, weather-resistant floor installations. The new
portfolio ensures safety for carpenters and other trades, especially when working at height – either during installation as a temporarily exposed floor area, or as a purpose built deck/platform.
As West Fraser describes it to the industry, these new waterproof panels ensure that contractors can “keep building even with the roof off.” In fact, the manufacturer now promises an extended 60 days’ durability for CaberShield Eco if correctly fixed using the recommended adhesive. So, in the wettest of weather, building can carry on, with the H&S team reassured regarding slip-resistance, supported by the fact that the boards are able to accept heavy traffic on a busy site without the level of grip deteriorating.
For further information, call 01786 812921 or visit: http://uk.westfraser.com
Highlighting the potential significance of this accreditation, Lorna Stimpson, CEO of BSCF, said, “The BCI certification scheme rigorously evaluates the competence of building control professionals across all inspecting roles and specialisms. In addition to helping building inspectors meet mandatory BSR registration requirements, the BCI certification scheme aims to raise standards of technical competence throughout the industry.
“UKAS accreditation provides a valuable additional layer of independent scrutiny to the process, further enhancing the BCI competency certification scheme’s reputation & its potential to restore faith in the industry’s ability to deliver safer buildings.”
www.ukas.com
www.thebscf.org
CheckedSafe: Flipping paperwork for innovative digital solutions
Looking for industry-leading vehicle compliance?
CheckedSafe is the only UK company to develop and launch the GB Domestic Hours app, bringing market-first technology to UK vehicle fleets. CheckedSafe’s portfolio of compliance tools also includes the much-celebrated Driver Licencing Checks and Fleet Management Software.
We spoke to Director & Co-Founder, Gary Hawthorne, to find out more, “Fleet managers can now oversee any size fleet with mobile phones, rather than copious amounts of paperwork (a laptop is useful to interrogate the data). There is no need to store huge boxes of reports, plus it’s all in real-time so any defects/issues can be resolved quickly, reducing overall long-term costs and reducing downtime as better repair planning can be achieved.”
Multi-Award-Winning CheckedSafe provides an end-to-end digital cloud solutions package to fleet management across commercial fleet transport, public and private transport, emergency services and plant-hire vehicles.
For as little as £1 per vehicle per week, users can carry out customised vehicle checklists via a downloadable app. Even when drivers are off-grid, the app still functions and allows checks while on the go.
To find out more about CheckedSafe or to access the 30 day free trial, contact below.
T 01282 908429
Showersave’s waste water heat recovery system
Showersave, the award-winning manufacturer and distributor of waste water heat recovery systems (WWHRS), has unveiled the Showersave QB1-21XE, its latest innovation designed to offer enhanced energy efficiency and ease of installation for contractors. Available for installation from December 2024, this new model builds on the success of its predecessor, the QB1-21, and is designed to deliver maximum energy savings, compliance with building regulations, and ease of installation – key benefits for UK contractors.
Designed to make the biggest impact on hot water energy savings for showers, the QB1-21XE is an affordable and effective solution for meeting Part L building regulations and future-proofing homes to comply with the upcoming Future Homes Standard (FHS). With its superior efficiency, the new system allows contractors to provide their clients with a cost-effective solution that lowers utility bills, while also supporting compliance with the UK’s energy efficiency targets.
Showersave has already been installed in over 140,000 homes across the UK and Europe, gaining popularity among contractors, housing associations, and commercial developers. The QB1-21XE can be used in residential and commercial developments, and even supports BREEAM requirements for sustainability in commercial projects.
For more information on Showersave’s new QB1-21XE waste water heat recovery system, call 028 9334 4488, email: sales@showersave.com or visit: www.showersave.com
Drainage teams underground
National drainage contractor Lanes Group plc has used its specialist cutting equipment to clear pipes in a power station located in Europe’s largest man-made cavern under a Welsh mountain.
The company’s drainage engineers drove its service vehicles, including a jet vac tanker, down a tunnel into Mt Elidir Fawr to carry out the work on drainage pipes at Dinorwig hydroelectric power station. The facility, the largest scheme of its kind in Europe, has six 300 megawatt generators that can reach full power output in just 16 seconds to meet spikes in electricity demand.
First Hydro Company, which operates the power station, called in Lanes to clear calcite
and silt that had built up in drainage pipes located in the main inlet valve gallery, where six giant valves feed water into turbines.
Amy Pritchett, Engineering Geologist for First Hydro, said, “The calcite deposits, in particular, was beginning to compromise the gallery’s
drainage system, so the work Lanes has done for us has been very important. Conventional methods of clearing the pipes, such as pressure washing and rodding, didn’t work, so we needed the specialist equipment and skills Lanes has to provide an effective solution.”
Minerals held in water that seeps out of the cavern’s rock walls have been deposited in channels and pipes running the 150m length of the main inlet valve gallery, greatly reducing their capacity. Six enclosed clay pipes and six open channels, each up to 10 metres long and between 100mm and 150mm in diameter, had to be cleaned.
www.lanesgroup.com
www.lanesdrainageservices. co.uk
Advances in water jetting
The first WJA Trade Show in September 2024 provided a strong focus on key issues in the water jetting industry, including health & safety, training & innovations like robotic systems.
The first water jetting exhibition of its kind held by the Water Jetting Association took place at the StoneX Stadium, North West London, on 12 September 2024.
The free event had a strong international flavour with businesses from across Europe joining British exhibitors to showcase latest technologies and applications. WJA experts and exhibitors also gave talks during the one-day event, which followed the WJA annual general meeting being held on Wednesday 11 September.
Visitors to the event came from industrial sectors that rely on water jetting applications, including drainage and water utilities, industrial cleaning, construction, maritime engineering and petrochemicals processing.
WJA Director, Leanne Smith, said, “We’re very pleased to have attracted such an exciting range of exhibitors to WJA Trade Show 2024. We made it a free event because we wanted as many people from across the sectors that use water jetting to join us in shaping the future of our industry.”
Water jetting contractors, equipment manufacturers, hire specialists, PPE suppliers, and training providers were among the wide range of exhibitors putting on the water jetting show of the year.
Information about key developments in WJA support for the water jetting industry, including updates to the Red Code of Practice for drain and sewer jetting, and the launch, in 2024, of the new Pressure Washer Code of Practice, known as the Purple Code, were also available.
Contact www.waterjetting.org.uk
Graf UK delivers a belter of a rainwater harvesting tank at historic cricket club
The installation of a Graf UK rainwater harvesting system at Chiswick Cricket Club has delivered a hat trick of firsts.
Initially, it was the first time that water consumption consultants Ecoprod had specified a Graf UK system. Secondly, it was the first time water management systems contractor Jamie Vacher had installed a rainwater harvesting system. And thirdly, the project is the first of its kind in Middlesex.
Chiswick Cricket Club was founded in West London in 1853 and has recently undergone a major redevelopment in line with the English Cricket Board’s (ECB) emphasis on sustainability.
Part of this focus has been on increasing their facilities throughout the year without increasing the use of mains
water, as well as thwarting the increasing occurrence of temporary use bans which mean that during hosepipe bans the club can only water its cricket square.
Through accessing the ECB’s County Grants Funding, Middlesex Cricket approved the grant contributing towards the cost of Chiswick Cricket Club installing a rainwater harvesting system, which is believed to be the largest belowground system in cricket in the country to date.
Chiswick CC will monitor its performance until the end of the summer to better understand how rainwater harvesting on this scale can benefit a cricket club, with the potential for the project to be used as a sustainability exemplar for the ECB.
Contact www.grafuk.co.uk
Cleaning & Hygiene
BCIS reveals five year maintenance, cleaning and energy forecast
Maintenance costs are set to rise 16% by 2Q 2029, according to the latest forecast data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS)
All-in Maintenance Cost
Indices. Cleaning costs, mainly driven by labour costs, are expected to rise by 23% over the forecast period, while BCIS expects energy costs to fall by 22% over the same period.
Karl Horton (pictured), chief data officer at BCIS, said, “The economic outlook for 2024 remains challenging due to high interest rates
and constrained funding on the demand side, and a lack of skilled workers and contractors on the supply side. While demand for FM services is expected to stay strong, repair and maintenance output will remain stagnant initially, with growth in the latter part of the forecast period. Cost increases will be driven by wages trying to recoup the real falls in recent years and by increases in the National Living Wage.”
BCIS is expecting annual declines in all R&M sub-sectors apart from public
Unlock Awaab’s Law compliance with audits
Leading regulatory and microbiological testing house, MSL Solution Providers, is calling on landlords, councils, housing associations, and facilities management (FM) companies to proactively engage in comprehensive cleaning audits to ensure compliance with Awaab's Law.
This legislation, which came into effect in January 2024 as part of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, is extending to the private rented sector and is widely expected to be enforced with the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill in March 2025. It mandates that landlords must address health hazards, including damp and mould, within specified timeframes to ensure healthy living conditions. Failure to comply will result in enforcement action initiated by tenants through the courts.
MSL’s innovative CleanSure Hygiene Auditing Solution enables landlords and facilities managers to ensure that their rental properties are hygienically clean and safe, and that correct cleaning protocols are being followed. Quick, reliable, and effective, the service includes swabbing surfaces around the property for microbiological testing by post, leveraging the company’s extensive microbiology and industrial hygiene expertise.
The process is straightforward, with a report being issued within 3-5 days of swabs being received. Alongside the results, the client receives a bespoke set of recommendations to help them stay ahead of any potential hygiene problems.
For more information about MSL, visit: www.msl.io or enquire at: enquiries@msl.io
OTL Group toasts 40 years
An Aberdeenshire company which exports its world-beating products across the globe is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The OTL Group’s interests are diverse spanning offshore cleaning, firefighting foams, foam testing and infection control products. Since opening for business in 1984, it has grown to encompass four divisions, over 200 products and almost 30 staff.
Managing Director, David Evans, explained, “Right from the start, we have always been about four things – great products, being as environmentally sustainable as possible, great people and great customer service.
we can expand the site to facilitate further growth.
“We started out with our Sobo range of rigwash and industrial oil degreasers and then expanded into firefighting foams which are used to suppress fires offshore and in high-risk sites like chemical plants, as well as in the marine and aviation sectors. We’re known for developing highly effective, specialist products.”
“In the early days, we worked from small facilities in Torry, Aberdeen, before expanding into our purpose-built facilities at Gourdon. We now have our offices, warehouses, workshops, lab and testing facilities and we’re actively exploring how
The group’s infection control business, Bio Technics, is headed up by David’s daughter Hannah. She commented, “Bio Technics export about two thirds of our products around the world. We manufacture our patented Endurocide Antimicrobial Plus disposable hospital curtains for use in hospitals as well as a range of alcohol-free hand sanitisers, wipes, and surface cleaners right here in Gourdon.”
www.the-otlgroup.com
housing and infrastructure in 2024. While R&M is expected to show growth overall in 2025, nonhousing R&M is forecast to remain in decline. BCIS is projecting R&M output to rise around 8% in the five years to 2029.
Horton added, “R&M output may be significantly affected by the Autumn Budget. With a £22 billion black hole in the nation’s finances to plug, the Chancellor has some very difficult decisions to make. We know that funding for R&M projects, including urgent work on schools, hospitals and prisons, as well as other government and local authority buildings, is going to be under extreme pressure.”
www.bcis.co.uk
Aladdin EasyFit Isolator allows new metering technology to overcome challenges for South West Water Customers
South West Water (SWW) has announced a successful collaboration with Kier Group to improve the efficiency of water meter installations. This partnership has addressed a previous hurdle for some customers where there is no isolation, or the isolation valve has seized or failed.
The key to this success lies in the utilisation of Aladdin EasyFit Isolators. These innovative isolation valves act as a crucial tool for Kier Group’s metering team, allowing them to install meters in situations that would have previously resulted in a frustrating ‘unable to meter’ feedback for the customer.
Wendy Coomber, SWW Metering Manager at Kier Group said, “By implementing Aladdin EasyFit Isolator valves, Kier Group has expanded its capabilities to serve a wider range of SWW customers and ensure they benefit from having a water meter.”
The use of water meters is crucial for both water conservation and accurate billing. By overcoming the stopcock obstacle, Kier Group and SWW are demonstrating their commitment to providing efficient and accessible metering solutions for all their customers.
https://aladdin-products.co.uk
Building & Construction Sustainable timber cladding
Contemporary construction demands sustainable, functional and aesthetic building materials. Our premium timbers meet these specifications and add a timeless quality to interiors and exteriors.
Inspired by Japanese Yakisugi timber preservation, Exterior Solutions Ltd created Shou Sugi Ban®. In addition to the traditional blackened, crackled finish, our finish options bring the technique up to date. If blackened wood is too dark for your project, our collection includes a selection of mid- to light-grey tones. The smooth, subtle finish of Kebony Radiata and Yukari Numachi are popular options.
Alternatively, for a natural wood finish, Accoya® Tenki and Larch Shiberiatora showcase the beauty of timber grain. These add a warm, tactile quality to garden buildings and rustic-style retail stores.
For a splash of colour, the peacock tones of Accoya® Tobu, the deep red of Yukari Kõsui or our vibrant range of Douglas Fir finishes create unique and impactful hotel and restaurant interiors. All finishes enhance the durability of the timber by drawing out natural resins. These provide a moisture, rot and insect-resilient barrier to minimise maintenance. It’s a practical and visually desirable way to elevate modern builds and heritage renovations.
In addition to Oak, Larch and Douglas Fir, the Shou Sugi Ban® range includes Kebony and Accoya® These modified timbers are exposed to a chemical treatment to enhance stability and durability. We supply Shou Sugi Ban® with installation instructions, matching tipped screws and a tin of finish treatment for cut lengths. These ensure a professional finish can be achieved on every project.
Click here to download the Shou Sugi Ban® brochure. Contact Exterior Solutions Ltd on 01494 711800 for samples and quotes.
New HomeHub device
Vericon Systems, a leading manufacturer of remote technologies to manage and control essential building services, has launched HomeHub, a sophisticated in-property device that has been specifically developed to help Housing Associations and property managers monitor and manage their resident’s living environment.
HomeHub, with its intuitive user-friendly touchscreen, provides real-time visibility into environmental conditions within a property, such as humidity levels and alerting residents to potential issues such as damp and mould, by assessing the risk in each room every five minutes rather than providing a general view over a 24 hour period.
HomeHub enables direct communication between landlords and residents, including proactive communication with residents, available in multiple languages, to address concerns or when an issue occurs, with regular updates to provide tenants with reassurance that the relevant parties are working to resolve the issue.
Thanks to its intelligent machine learning, the HomeHub system ‘learns’ the property’s unique heating characteristics, enabling it to accurately calculate the time needed to achieve the desired temperature. This data can also help landlords and property managers better identify properties with inefficient heating systems or inadequate insulation, providing valuable insights for optimisation and improvement.
In the event of maintenance or repair works being required, the device’s Track My Repair feature enables residents to follow their case with a simple flow chart that automatically updates once each milestone is reached with detailed notes and information, and a full audit log for both residents and landlords. The system can also be used by property managers to notify residents of any disruption to boiler performance, providing reasons for the interruption and contact details to schedule an engineer visit, as well as provide reminders for booking annual gas safety checks.
T 01242 582555 hello@vericonsystems.com https://vericonsystems.com
Celebrating pinnacle of success
Tall buildings have a profound impact on our cities and their skylines –they shape them and reflect the aspirations of their inhabitants.
The recent Tall Buildings Awards paid homage to the very best of these iconic structures and the teams behind them. Hosted by Peter Murray OBE – co-founder of NLA (New London Architecture) the awards took place at an informal drinks reception immediately following the Tall Buildings Conference at etc. venues St Pauls, London.
With 11 categories, the Tall Buildings Awards celebrate excellence in an increasingly complex world that must respond to the issues of sustainability, mixed-use, community living, the circular economy and stringent legislation. Turning the spotlight on the architects, engineers, contractors and the clients who plan and execute tall buildings, the awards recognise the achievement of delivering projects of the highest quality. This year the judges had the difficult task
of selecting 11 winners from over 100 outstanding entries.
Picking up three awards and a Highly Commended accolade, Tide and Vision were crowned ‘Winner of Winners’ on the night for College Road and their groundbreaking volumetric building system. The pioneering development in East Croydon, South London by offsite developer and contractor, Tide and its volumetric company, Vision – comprises two of the world’s tallest volumetric modular buildings delivering almost 1,000 new homes. A 35 storey tower provides 120 affordable homes, and a 50 storey tower provides 817 co-living homes – one of the largest co-living developments across the globe.
To discover more about the winning projects and the Tall Buildings Awards go to: www.radarbookingsystem.co.uk/tall-buildingsawards/2024-winners
Leeds-based builder making best of CaberMDF
A former member of the Royal Corps of Signals, who switched to carpentry after leaving the Army, now runs his own building company covering the West Riding area of Yorkshire and is making a name for himself fitting out property renovations using CaberMDF, as well as other panel products from the West Fraser range.
North Build Leeds was set up by Van Midgely five years ago and now tackles a variety of conversions as well as general building repairs and improvements,
purchasing the high performance MDF and CaberDek flooring from different builders’ merchants in the city, depending on price and the locality his team are working in.
Van explained, “While I left the army with a qualification in telecommunications, I always had an interest in building and would count myself as an ‘old school’ joiner, who can pitch a roof if necessary – as well as carrying out kitchen fitting to a very high standard, which is one of the second-fix applications where I use a lot of the CaberMDF, sometimes
ordering 20 sheets at a time. When I’ve got a job coming up, I will put out a cutting list to the merchants I use and see who comes back with the best price. At the moment, I am employing four people full time as well as using a number of subbies, including an electrician and a plumber.”
All West Fraser panel products produced in the UK are net carbon negative and manufactured in mills that have obtained the coveted environmental ISO 14001 accreditation. Responsibly sourced, the panels are FSC® (C012533) certified and created from locally grown timber, cutting embodied carbon from transportation.
For further information, call 01786 812921 or visit: https://uk.westfraser.com
Building & Construction
Modular building: Moving the needle in construction
By 2025, modular housing will be on track to deliver 20,000 low carbon, energy-efficient homes in England, including multi-storey structures and skyscrapers. With sustainability and cost savings at the forefront these homes are often built twice as quickly, cost 55% less to heat than traditional brickbuilt houses, and cut construction related CO2 emissions by 83%. The UK Government is committed to modular building as part of the Affordable Homes Programme.
Multi-award-winning Kedel is a leading business founded on sustainable best practices, with a range of recycled plastic alternatives to wooden products – many aimed at the modular building market. These include: cladding, decking, fascia boards, ground reinforcement grids, porous paving, tongue & groove, fencing, gates, seating, benches, garden and picnic tables, bollards and much more. The products are manufactured using state-of-the-art CNC machinery and everything
on site is recycled plastic.
Dermot Walch, Kedel Managing Director, explains, “We have provided housing associations with our recycled plastic wood fence panels and posts offering huge long-term cost savings on repair and maintenance, plus the ability to hit ESG targets with low-carbon products. These are suitable for a diverse range of applications. In healthcare, hospitals love our memorial benches, giving family members and hospital workers a much-needed space for quiet contemplation, and our knee-high birdsmouth fencing provides a robust solution for car parks and walkways.
“These products never rot, saving on the annual repair and maintenance associated with standard wooden ones. We’re happy to work on bespoke projects too. At the moment, we’re busy designing and manufacturing temporary housing for refugee camps around the world, supporting victims in war-
torn or climate change disaster areas.
“The media has always shown refugees living in tents, which is fine in the summer months, but these are not built to withstand strong winds or rain. Our designs – purely modular in concept –will be easy to erect and dismantle, and provide a sturdy housing alternative to tents, with thermal insulation and waterproofing throughout the year.
“We’ve seen a huge swing towards modular buildings this year due to the convenience of manufacture and speed of assembly. In addition, they eliminate long-term maintenance costs and reduce the building’s carbon footprint. This switch to modular construction and low carbon construction is rapidly becoming standard practice and we expect to see further growth over the coming years. Contrary to popular belief, polystyrene, with the right techniques, can be recycled, and we’re proud to be offering an exceptional product line from recycled polystyrene and other plastic waste.”
To view the multi-award-winning product range today, click here: www.kedel.co.uk
Building & Construction News
Why aren’t developers embracing sustainable construction standards?
Data analysed by ventilation solutions provider Airflow has found that only 3% of England’s houses have an EPC rating of A or B, ie. they are very energy efficient. This represents a rise of only 0.3% compared to the previous year, and just 2% in the last five years.
Faced with net-zero targets in an ongoing energy crisis, the UK housing supply needs transformation. Passivhaus, the ‘gold standard’ for energy efficient construction, emerges as a necessary solution. However, Passivhaus Trust estimates that only 1%
of new homes are built to Passivhaus standards.
The findings are revealed in their latest report, ‘Is Passivhaus achievable in the UK?’, which explores the need for sustainable building standards in the UK, as well as the barriers to adopting these.
Beyond government targets, the human impact of energy inefficiency is profound – a third of people in the UK find it difficult to pay their energy bills, highlighting the critical need for sustainable, cost-
New Johnson Controls report
As the commercial real estate sector faces unprecedented challenges and against the backdrop of New York Climate Week 2024, the biggest annual climate event of its kind, the movement toward smarter buildings is top of mind. Building on a 2023 commissioned study conducted by Forrester Consulting on behalf of Johnson Controls, a recently released spotlight report, ‘Cracking The Smart Buildings Code: A Spotlight On Retail And Commercial Real Estate’, reveals that investments in smart buildings are essential for leaders aiming to enhance sustainability, security, and save money.
long-term success.”
“Smart buildings are not just a trend; there is growing recognition they are a necessity for modern commercial real estate,” said Vijay Sankaran, vice president and chief technology officer, Johnson Controls. “This report highlights the urgent need for integrated systems and expert partners to navigate the complexities of today’s commercial real estate market to achieve
The digitalisation of buildings provides an immense opportunity to gain a clearer picture of the operation of facilities to create sustainable, healthy, and safe environments – a critical differentiator for both commercial real estate tenants and buyers. Notably, 75% of commercial real estate and retail leaders say smart buildings are important to accelerating their digital transformation efforts. Nearly two-thirds of leaders indicate smart buildings are important for reducing costs, accelerating sustainability initiatives, and driving business growth. These results reveal that retail and commercial real estate leaders are seeking outcomes that have a positive impact for building owners, occupants and the bottom line.
www.johnsoncontrols.com/OpenBlue www.johnsoncontrols.com/insights/2024/whitepaper/cracking-the-code-cre
Train more people into the heritage industry
A Gloucestershire heritage organisation, which trains lime plasterers of the future, can now take on 50 more students after receiving an award from B&CE Charitable Trust.
The Charitable Trust has chosen CarringtonLIME Heritage Skills Training CIC to be the recipient of its £20,000 Construction Employability Award 2024/25. CarringtonLIME, a Community Interest Company, based in Mitcheldean, runs heritage construction and skills training, predominantly in lime plastering. The award will enable the company to expand their fully funded national Heritage Plastering programme.
programme equips students with a deep understanding of heritage construction. Participants gain practical skills in creating high-quality lime plaster mixes, understanding site operations, and ultimately gaining the confidence to secure work in the field.
effective housing solutions.
Despite the obvious benefits, what barriers prevent widespread adoption of this promising sustainable construction standard?
The lack of interest in Passivhaus is due to several factors, including:
s Higher upfront construction costs
s Lack of expertise in Passivhaus design and construction
s Perceived complexity of meeting Passivhaus standards
s Absence of policy incentives
www.airflow.com
The top 2024 sustainability data insights from the built environment
With greenhouse gas in the atmosphere surging to the highest levels ever recorded, carbon reduction efforts must accelerate. According to the WGBC, buildings are responsible for 39% of global energyrelated carbon emissions. The world leader in construction and infrastructure LCA and EPD data, One Click LCA, provides topical data that shows where global construction can concentrate efforts to reduce emissions and improve sustainability.
One Click LCA’s data shows that the carbon reduction potential in construction projects is higher when sustainability is considered from the start. One 2024 hallmark case by One Click LCA, in collaboration with industry giant AECOM, shows that emissions can be reduced by as much as 50% when decisions are made early in the design phase – when targets are set, major design decisions are made, subcontractor guidelines are defined, and the overall plan for the building and construction process is set.
The company is currently the only heritage training provider in the UK offering a full career path into the ancient art of lime plastering. With over 300 students trained annually – ranging from tradespeople to architects and surveyors – the
The Construction Employability Award, offered by B&CE Charitable Trust, is an award that supports organisations in developing new talent within the construction sector. It is open to organisations that provide trade-specific training, apprenticeships, and access to skills development. Additionally, the award highlights those who provide support around mental well-being and personal disadvantages in the workplace.
https://bandce.co.uk/the-charitable-trust/ corporate-support/the-constructionemployability-award
If the lowest carbon-emitting products are selected for all materials in a building, carbon emissions can be reduced by more than one-third. The calculations are based on One Click LCA’s database of LCA data and EPDs for +250,000 global construction products. The impact is particularly high when choosing lower-carbon emitting products for concrete and steel needs, as thermally manufactured, carbon-intensive structural materials make up a large portion of materials used in projects.
www.oneclicklca.com
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd specialises in highquality service duct sealing systems for utility services and watertight seals, offering a high level of expertise to developers and specifiers for sealing against water and gas ingress around service entries in basements and high-rise buildings.
Service Sealing Solutions is the sole UK distributor for the sealing industry’s top pioneering manufacturers: DOYMA and HKD.
With over 50 years of experience, DOYMA compile both their knowledge and skill into their seal range, to create effective, but simple solutions to meet all watertight service sealing requirements. DOYMA products provide the highest level of safety when sealing buildings where pipes and electrical cables pass through.
DOYMA stands on the front line when it comes to the development of innovative, practical solutions for sealing and fire systems. Their goal is to create safe building penetrations for pipes and cables that seal off fire, gas and water. The rubber mouldings are what ensure the gas and watertight features.
Here at Service Sealing Solutions, we supply HKD service seals throughout the whole of the UK. HKD, now owned by DOYMA, manufactures a wide range of pipe sealing systems and service conduits – which is forever growing. All seals in the range are guaranteed to withstand up to 4 bars of pressure! Also available in varying sizes and shapes for different access points.
HKD systems have a sealing solution for service conduits cast into concrete without the sleeves. HKD service conduits are supplied ready for use, requiring no site preparation work prior to installation. With options such as KE Socketless service conduits, KG Wall Ducts and Floor Ducts, together with KG Twin Sockets for installation in pump sumps and where suitability for thin-walled concrete structures is vital.
For more information, please call us on 01952 510050 or visit www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk or email sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
Doors, Windows & Joinery
Hörmann industrial doors installed at British Army Vehicle storage depot
Hörmann are working with Skanska UK on a £259 million Ministry of Defence contract to deliver the Vehicle Storage Support Programme (VSSP) at Ashchurch in Tewkesbury, which will provide modern, sustainable and effective storage and maintenance for the British Army’s land equipment fleet.
The overall project consists of the construction, mechanical and electrical engineering for a complex programme that will see the demolition of 58 buildings, the construction of 12 new buildings and refurbishment of one existing facility, plus renewal of the site’s wide infrastructure. On completion it will provide a centralised facility which will ensure the operational readiness of the Army’s vehicles by minimising the need for maintenance.
The updated facilities will provide Controlled Humidity Environment (CHE) storage, aimed at reducing maintenance costs and any unnecessary deterioration caused by extreme drops or rises in temperature,
ensuring that the vehicles are operationally ready at all times. As part of this key requirement Hörmann UK are supplying a total of 226 of their SPU F42 fully automated Industrial Sectional Doors which are split between the 12 new warehouse units and represents one of the largest ‘door only’ projects that the company has undertaken.
Hörmann SPU F42 double-skinned industrial sectional doors are well known within the marketplace, recognised for their good thermal efficiency and air tightness properties – key factors in this major project. The doors specified can achieve an impressive U-value of 1.2 W/m2k for doors including vision panels and a value of 0.9 W/ m2k for solid doors. All of the doors supplied provide Class 3 air permeability. This has been achieved with enhanced sealing of the door, with an improved bottom seal, corner seals which improve the tightness between the door frame and lintel, together with infill seals between the ribbing in each section.
All doors are finished in RAL 7016 Anthracite grey externally and Hormann’s standard RAL 9002 Grey white internally and provide a minimum clear opening of 5,000mm x 5,000mm.
Phil Thorpe, Industrial Projects Manager for Hörmann UK comments, “We are delighted to be working with Skanska on such an important and prestigious project. The selection of our industrial sectional doors was due to their ability to meet the very
specific performance criteria to achieve the CHE storage requirements. This was coupled with our ability to work collaboratively with Skanska on what is a complicated industrial scheme with multiple interfaces and trades involved, requiring a high degree of coordination and communication.
“In addition, our after sales service and the availability of the comprehensive service and maintenance capabilities that are being provided through our sister company FBS Hörmann played a key role in securing the contract.”
Installation of the first doors began in October 2023, with the project expected to be completed by June 2026.
To find out more about Hörmann industrial doors visit Industrial Sectional Doors | Hörmann (www.hormann.co.uk) or call 01530 516868.
Environmental Product Declarations
Tamworth-based trade association, Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is once again stressing the importance of Environmental Product Declarations (EPD). An EPD is an independently verified and registered document that communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products. In summary, it measures the environmental ‘footprint’ of a product.
EPD demonstrate the results of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), detailing ‘cradle to grave’ environmental impact of all processes involved with the manufacture of a product. This can include extraction and processing of raw materials, transport, all elements of the manufacturing process, dismantling and waste disposal.
“Although it is not yet compulsory to use EPD in the UK, the market is increasingly selfregulating as manufacturers seek to demonstrate carbon transparency and market their products accordingly,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “Participation in the EPD programme is essential if the construction industry is to meet the growing demand for greater sustainability. We are delighted to be able to support our members by offering generic EPD.”
Back in June 2017, DHF was widely considered ‘ahead of the game’ in launching 14 generic EPD (in collaboration with ARGE) – and since then, the federation has been educating and informing its members about the role and growing importance of EPD in the sustainability process; a complicated subject, DHF has been plugging the ‘information gap’.
To establish which DHF members hold EPD, visit: https://bit.ly/49QaLvG
Working towards EUDR compliance
As a manufacturer with a long history of embracing high standards of its raw material due diligence programme and sustainability goals in general, West Fraser is introducing additional strategies to comply with the requirements of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) which was published in June 2023 and is set to come into force at the end of 2024.
With the world’s forests being lost at the equivalent rate of 800 football pitches an hour, it is considered to be the second biggest contributor to Climate Change and results in corresponding damage to biodiversity. The EUDR has therefore been established to not only ensure wood comes from legal sources, but to eradicate deforestation and degradation our of global forests. Ultimately, the regulation will help to decouple economic growth from resource consumption, a key target of the EU’s Green Deal.
To date, West Fraser has been working to collate
data and undertakings from its supply chain partners, the forest geolocation, species and legal aspects are all considered as part of the risk assessment process, with the wider road map for its journey to full compliance being the subject of regular review. Meeting the requirements of EUDR is an extension of the company’s already well-established due diligence systems and disciplines in line with its forestry policy commitments.
West Fraser’s Group Compliance Manager, Julie Turner, who is leading the EUDR project, commented, “We recognise and actively promote the importance of responsible sourcing across our supply chains and can assure our customers that we are engaged with the EUDR requirements to better our planet and reduce our environmental impact.”
For further information on West Fraser’s sourcing and due diligence processes, email: responsible.sourcing.eu@westfraser.com
Chris Sadler, CEO, Kimble Solar
Chris Sadler is the CEO and founder of Kimble Solar, a family-run renewable energy-focused electrical business based in Buckinghamshire. As an environmentalist with a background in construction and engineering, Chris has carved a niche for himself promoting the importance of solar PV and renewable energy, driven by his passion for both engineering and environmental sustainability.
Having earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Nottingham, Chris embarked on a distinguished career path, lending his expertise as an Interior Trim Design Engineer to the iconic Aston Martin for four years. However, driven by a dedication to fostering a greener future, he transitioned into electrical engineering, honing his craft as a solo practitioner and founding Kimble Solar in 2011.
and lower carbon emissions with a singular focus on the installation of solar panels and PVs. Under his leadership, the company has blossomed into an environmentally consciousness small business, mirroring his commitment to sustainability.
With an unwavering dedication to excellence, Chris has meticulously assembled a team of highly qualified installers and attentive support staff, renowned for their unparalleled after-care packages and attention to detail. All installers are trained to the highest solar standards with City & Guilds 2391, 18th edition wiring and BPEC solar and battery installation qualifications along with certifications from the various brands it installs from NICEIC, MCS and ECA.
Inspired by his father’s legacy as the founder of Kimble Construction, Chris infused his passion and entrepreneurial spirit into Kimble Solar, pivoting into renewables in 2022 to help protect the planet
Echoing the standards of John Lewis, Chris and his team at Kimble Solar pride themselves on delivering exceptional customer service, epitomising a blend of quality results and unparalleled post-installation support.
www.kimbletech.com
GTEC brings portable renewables training to the Isle of Man
GTEC, part of the United Living Group, has been working with Construction Isle of Man and the Manx government on an exciting project to bring MCS accredited renewables training to the Isle of Man (IOM). Prior to GTEC’s involvement, there was no provision for this on the island.
GTEC identified the lack of training for installers looking to make the move into renewables. This, coupled with IOM’s ambitious Net Zero targets, gave GTEC the perfect opportunity to bring its industry-leading courses direct to the IOM, saving heating engineers the trouble and expense of leaving the island to up-skill.
In its Climate Change Plan, the IOM government
has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 and has set two challenging interim targets: a 35% reduction by 2030 and a 45% reduction by 2035. They aim to decarbonise the island’s electricity supply by 2030 and to generate an extra 30 megawatts of renewable electricity locally by 2026. The call for renewables, therefore, is great.
Debbie Reeve, Chief Officer for Construction IOM, is enthusiastic about the new training opportunities, “GTEC has built some great mobile rigs that they have brought to the island to train our heating engineers this summer. The first courses in Solar PV, Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) and Air Source Heat Pump installation were delivered at the Comis Hotel at
https://gtec.co.uk
Mount Murray in late June, with more planned for July and later in the year.”
