The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet
solves the problem of operating a solenoid valve when a system is without power.
The Small Tool with a Big Attraction
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet is a tool that converts Electrically Operated Solenoid Valves into handoperated valves.
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet assists during the installation, recovery of refrigerants, and commissioning and decommissioning of plant and machinery.
This enables service engineers to operate solenoid valves manually in refrigeration, air conditioning, water, oil, gas, and fuel installations.
The magnet is the same shape and size as a large cotton reel.
When placed onto a valve stem (with the coil removed), it causes the armature to open or close.
Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our June issue, where we dive into the latest advancements, practical insights, and groundbreaking innovations shaping the building and facilities industries.
Congratulations to Adveco, our Company of the Year Award winner. Featured on pages 4–5, the article explores the challenges of transitioning commercial hot water systems
Company of the Year 4-5
Building and Facilities News Company of the Year Award winner Adveco highlights existing and new hurdles impeding sustainability strategies which target water heating.
Building Products & Services 10
Secure IT
Environments Ltd (SITE) has announced the completion of a challenging data centre upgrade project on Jersey.
Facilities & Estate Management 12
Fusion21 is pleased to announce the suppliers successfully appointed to its national Building Safety and Compliance Framework.
Energy & Power 16
Star Power is excited to say it’s expanding its operations into the North West.
from gas to electric, and highlights the importance of expert guidance to avoid costly mistakes and support long-term sustainability goals.
On page 14, we feature GSM Activate, a leading manufacturer of electronic and access control devices specialising in GSM (SIM card-based) technology. The
On the Cover
Nicola Yoxall Editor & Office Manager
article highlights their innovative product range, which uses your mobile phone as the central control point.
Other topics covered: Construction, Health & Safety, Building Products & Services, Facilities & Estate Management, Energy & Power, Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Lighting & Electrical, Cleaning & Hygiene, Training & Development, Landscaping, External Works & Drainage.
News to share?
nicolayoxall@
buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Unless stated as
Blended 16
Blended will be exhibiting at InstallerSHOW on the 24-26th June at the NEC in Birmingham this year, at Stand 5B128. Blended has established strong partnerships with national and global brands, demonstrating its commitment to delivering expert service and tailored solutions.
Lighting & Electrical 18
Luceco has helped Akzo Nobel upgrade the lighting system in the Polymer Plant Controls Room at its facilities in Gateshead, working with NEP Services.
Landscaping, External Works & Drainage 21
Perfectly blending with other building materials, charred timber cladding is the exterior finish of choice for contemporary builds and heritage renovations.
Overcoming the hurdles to more
Building and Facilities News Company of the Year Award winner Adveco highlights existing and new hurdles impeding sustainability strategies which target water heating, a business-critical service with potentially high energy demands and one of the notable contributors to carbon emissions from the non-domestic built environment…
Designing a successful domestic hot water (DHW) system for a commercial building today necessitates a holistic understanding of system design. One which demands a nuanced approach, carefully balancing adherence to stringent building legislation, paramount safety considerations, economic viability, and the growing imperative of environmental sustainability.
One of the foundational approaches lies in a thorough understanding and implementation of the UK Building Regulations, specifically Part G (Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency) and Part L (Conservation of fuel and power). Part G sets clear guidelines on the provision of hot water at safe temperatures to prevent scalding, mandates measures to limit water wastage, and specifies requirements for the design and installation of hot water systems. Part L focuses on energy efficiency, requiring systems to be designed to minimise heat losses (through effective insulation of
pipes and storage vessels) efficient heat generation, and appropriate controls. Compliance with these regulations is not merely a legal obligation but a crucial step towards ensuring safety and energy efficiency.
Safety remains a non-negotiable aspect of hot water system optimisation. Beyond regulatory compliance, a proactive approach to safety involves meticulous risk assessments during the design and installation phases. This includes identifying potential hazards such as legionella growth, which thrives in stagnant warm water. Implementing strategies like maintaining hot water storage temperatures above 60°C, ensuring regular flushing of the system, and preventative design of pipework to avoid dead legs. Furthermore, regular maintenance and inspection schedules are essential to identify and rectify any potential safety issues before they escalate.
Cost optimisation requires a comprehensive lifecycle perspective, encompassing initial capital expenditure, ongoing operational costs (primarily energy), and maintenance expenses. While the allure of lower upfront costs might be tempting, a more strategic approach considers the long-term energy consumption and potential for savings through efficient technologies. Investing in high-efficiency boilers or heat pumps, properly sized storage tanks to minimise reheating losses, and sophisticated control systems can significantly reduce energy bills over the system’s lifespan. That said, good design will also help significantly lower capital investment, as it helps avoid system oversizing which inherently leads to excess investment in unnecessary or duplicated appliances. Furthermore, designing for durability, especially when considering local water quality (hard or soft) can minimise long-term maintenance repair and replacement costs. Recognising the total cost of ownership is therefore crucial for making informed decisions.
Finally, there is sustainability which involves minimising the system’s environmental footprint through reduced energy consumption and the adoption of renewable
energy sources. Heat pumps, for example, offer a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional fossil fuel boilers, but are best deployed extracting heat from the air to preheat a hot water system. Solar thermal systems, a true and wellproven renewable can directly harness solar energy to preheat or fully heat water, further reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Integrating smart controls and monitoring systems can further optimise energy usage by adjusting heating schedules based on occupancy and demand, preventing unnecessary energy waste.
As a result, sustainability has not only emerged as a key driver in the optimisation of commercial hot water systems, but has started to supersede both cost optimisation
more sustainable hot water
and, of some concern, safety. This is notably the case with the latest generation of high-temperature heat pumps dependent upon poorly regulated propane-based R290 refrigerants, and electrical systems, such as photovoltaics (PV) which have a known potential for causing electrical fires on rooftops. Both technologies are fêted by government as critical to the roll-out of sustainability strategies but, in the wake of the Grenfell Enquiry, are increasingly problematic in their current iterations.
With an unprecedented acceleration in technology many are now racing to keep up with innovation in this field, further compounding errors typically arising from poor design or installation.
Gas to electric: Recognising common errors Without a doubt, one of the great challenges that faces the UK is the retrofit of HVAC systems across the commercial built environment. According to the Department for Business, Energy, & Industry Strategy (BEIS) there were 1,755,000 recognised non-domestic buildings in England and Wales at the end of March 2024. the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) estimates that 80% of these buildings will still be here in 2050, meaning the large majority which still rely on gas water heating will require retrofit over the next 25 years if improved performance for sustainable operation is to be achieved. Transitioning commercial water heating from gas to electric presents unique design challenges, and several common errors can arise if these differences aren't carefully considered.
using heat pumps for low-carbon preheat, will have a slower recovery rate compared to gas-based systems, meaning they take longer to reheat water. A design must factor in this slower recovery and increase the storage volume or the kW rating of the electric heater to meet peak demands.
While electric systems eliminate gas usage for greater carbon savings, electricity costs per unit of energy are much higher, by a factor of four at time of writing. This is not simply a case of choosing better value electricity tariffs, it also requires balancing a DHW application design to optimise running costs. This is best achieved by taking advantage of low-carbon technology, such as heat pumps and solar thermal, to preheat water and offset the demands of the more expensive primary electrical heating. Failing to design the system to effectively utilise self-generated heat during daylight hours leads is a key missed opportunity. Electric water heating is an ideal partner for on-site renewable energy generation, of which solar thermal is by far the most efficient, proven and safe option offsetting at least 30% of annual electrical demand throughout the UK. With smart controls and appropriately sized storage, application can maximise the benefits of renewable and low-carbon integration.
An integrated perspective for future water heating
To enable change requires accurate load assessment. Underestimation leads to insufficient hot water supply during peak times, causing user dissatisfaction. Conversely, overestimation results in oversized systems with higher capital costs and increased energy losses due to heating and storing excessive water. Accurate load calculations, considering occupancy patterns and usage habits, are crucial for optimal system sizing and can be easily secured by monitoring live flow through the system via low-cost, non-invasive water metering. The latest generation of water heaters may even incorporate water metering as a feature. Without credible data, one frequent mistake is to plan for a direct capacity swap without accounting for energy characteristics. Simply replacing a gas boiler with an electric heater of the same kilowatt rating can lead to undersized systems. Electric heating elements, or systems
Another pitfall of transitioning from gas to electric is neglecting the electrical infrastructure. Existing commercial buildings might have sufficient gas supply but lack the necessary electrical capacity for a highdemand electric water heating system. The resultant upgrades to the building’s electrical supply are not only extremely costly, but can seriously impact project timeframes, either of which can stall or lead to cancellation of sustainability projects. A thorough assessment of the existing electrical infrastructure and DHW demands can help deliver systems that require less electrical capacity, accelerating project timeframes as well as reducing capital investment and ongoing operational costs which are another major consideration.
A holistic approach to optimising DHW integrates legislation, safety, cost, and sustainability throughout the entire lifecycle of the hot water system, from initial design to ongoing operation and maintenance. This requires a thorough understanding of building regulations, load assessment, appropriate component selection, optimised system layout, robust safety measures, and consideration for future needs and maintenance. Engaging experienced and qualified professionals is crucial to ensure a commercial hot water system is safe, efficient, cost-effective, and compliant, especially when transitioning from existing gas to electric hot water provision.
Commercial building operators that embrace an integrated perspective that considers the interconnectedness of these critical factors will advance building sustainability faster, while able to still prioritise safety and minimise costs now and in the future.
www.adveco.co
Welsh Slate helps with lifeline to historic hospital
Work on the conservation of a historic and ground-breaking community hospital within a World Heritage Site commenced in November, thanks in part to Welsh Slate.
Penrhyn Quarry Hospital, also known locally as Ysbyty Brynllwyd, was built in Bethesda village in the late 1840s by former quarry owner Colonel Pennant for the rapid treatment of quarrymen injured at work, as well as injured visitors to Snowdonia.
However, the much-loved hospital closed in the mid-20th Century and all that remains of the
Building with West Fraser on Mudeford redevelopment
Popular with sailors and surfers, Mudeford lies on a spit of land between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea, where residential properties rival Sandbanks in nearby Poole in terms of luxury and prestige. One of West Fraser’s customers, in a redevelopment project, is employing the company’s high performance panel products where a building is being transformed into a threestorey, five-bedroom dwelling with a rooftop sun deck.
The team carrying out the work for a private owner includes Steve Mayes who has gained a lot of experience of the West Fraser product range working for local developers, Glass Harbour Group and Ashhaus Construction: building bespoke, high specification homes.
As Steve explained, “On a lot of our projects, the architect’s drawings will specify the use of a certain thickness of chipboard or another panel product, but we tend to buy West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero for its quality and reliability.
“The property I’m working on at the moment in Mudeford dates from the 1960s and is undergoing a full renovation as well as additions, so that it will have five bedrooms all en-suite, including the master which measures ten metres by seven.
“There are some new blockwork walls as well as a couple which are retained, while we are building studwork partitions on the upper floors. The roof, however, is far from conventional with two gables separated by a seven metre long ‘table-top’, which has great sea views & is going to have a hot tub.”
T 01786 812921
https://uk.westfraser.com
Scheduled Monument now are crumbling walls in woodland near the Lôn Las Ogwen cycle track which connects Port Penrhyn to local communities, the slate landscape and mountains beyond.
Welsh Slate, part of the Breedon Group who currently operate Penrhyn Quarry, have donated a significant number of slate products to aid the conservation work by Recclesia, a contractor experienced in historic building conservation, for Cyngor Gwynedd and Cadw, as part of the Llewyrch o’r Llechi Levelling Up scheme which is funded by the UK Government.
The project includes stabilising and consolidating the deteriorating condition of the standing walls, masonry and pointing mortar, introducing stone copings and flaunching to the wall heads to reduce water ingress, conserving the remaining architectural and historic details within, and managing vegetation growth.
The materials being donated by Welsh Slate were identified by conservation architects Donald Insall Associates during a programme of recording and emergency works involving vegetation clearance and masonry work carried out earlier this year.
Contact www.welshslate.com www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjRXXGjomZ4
Saint-Gobain’s offsite division making use of West Fraser panels
As a leading supplier of off-site manufactured timber based building systems, Saint-Gobain‘s Off-Site Solution (OSS) Division has come to value the high performance product range and responsive customer service levels offered by timber panel specialist, West Fraser: with products such as SterlingOSB Zero and CaberDek being used across multiple product ranges. In addition, the West Fraser panels are manufactured from responsibly sourced timber using renewable energy, thereby matching up to the client’s own ESG commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050.
Saint-Gobain’s Roofing and Flooring Marketing Manager, Lokesh Patel, commented, “Our fabricated components are manufactured from the highest quality materials using state-of-theart production equipment to rigorous quality control standards; ensuring long-term reliability and service life. All production processes are fully compliant with ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001
(Environmental) & OHSAS 18001 (Health & Safety).
“As just one example, the roof cassettes we use in our I-Roof system are recognised as an innovation in custom-made, large format roof elements that deliver enhanced performance over in line with the latest building regulations. They are designed by our in-house designers and fabricated in our factories ready for installation on site. The top of the cassette is finished in OSB, with a surface membrane to provide weather protection during installation. The I-Roof system provides a room-in-roof solution for 2.5 storey homes, where we supply fully manufactured walls and roofs complete with insulation and plasterboard. The system allows for a quick and easy on-site install, all managed from start to finish by our knowledgeable team.”
T 01786 812921
https://uk.westfraser.com
New rental specialist selects ToughLift quality
A start-up low access and material lifting rental specialist is confident of impressing clients after placing an order with Access Platform Sales for new ToughLift material lifts.
Prime Hire Solutions has taken delivery of 20 of the machines, designed to set new standards for simple yet tough push-around manual material lifts, and plans to order more.
Tom Wade, Managing Director of the South London rental specialist, viewed a ToughLift material lift on the APS stand at the Executive Hire Show and liked its quality plus its additional safety features.
electrical installation and facilities maintenance, and ToughLift material lifts will be ideal for these clients. They’re robust, easy to use, with new safety features and design standards for this equipment that make lifting and manoeuvring easier and safer.”
He said, “The ToughLift machine shown to us by APS was clearly superior to the standard material lifts in use in the UK market, so we’re very confident our customers will also be impressed. We’re looking to build an equipment hire fleet focused on serving clean trades, like HVAC and
“The ToughLift range carries CE certification which is required by many large contractors and their Tier 1 clients, which was another key advantage compared with some other lifts on the market,” he added.
APS is the UK and Ireland distributor for ToughLift material lifts. Prime Hire Solutions supplies low-level access, MEWPs, access towers and steps, site security and storage boxes, plus material lifting handling equipment, and plans to have more than 1,000 pieces of equipment in its fleet by the end of 2024.
www.accessplatforms.co.uk
Health & Safety News
ACS and Hilti in partnership
ACS Stainless Steel Fixings Limited has formed a dynamic industry partnership with global construction leader, The Hilti Group – a collaboration that aims to advance industry standards, focusing on improving building safety and promoting best practice.
At the core of the partnership is ACS’s awardwinning Certus™ modular brick façade system and Hilti’s advanced modular framing system. Together, they offer the construction industry a fully integrated, seamless solution that enhances efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Certus™ is the first A1 non-combustible product with a 60 year design life and it boasts vast versatility – being suitable for both full facades and as a hybrid solution in tandem with traditional brickwork.
The partnership will give architects, contractors, and developers access to a comprehensive package under one roof, from framing to
façade, simplifying the construction process and ensuring compliance with the stringent requirements of the Building Safety Act.
Speaking of the news, Matt Freeman, Engineering Director at ACS, said, “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Hilti – a collaboration that represents a major step forward for the construction industry.
“By combining our innovative Certus™ system with Hilti’s world-class modular framing, we are delivering a fully integrated solution that simplifies construction, enhances safety, and supports sustainability. It’s a collaboration built on shared values, and we’re excited to lead the way in offering customers a seamless, cutting-edge approach to building for the future.”
Contact https://acsstainless.co.uk
A-SAFE celebrates 40 years
A-SAFE, a global leader in workplace efficiency and safety solutions, marks its 40th anniversary this year, celebrating four decades at the forefront of industrial safety and efficiency.
A-SAFE’s journey epitomises a great British manufacturing success story, from its roots as a visionary family business to its evolution into a global powerhouse. Under the leadership of brothers James and Luke Smith, the business has experienced exponential growth. The company has expanded from a pioneering team of 20 to a global workforce of 750, with a commanding presence in over 65 countries.
Landmark event at R&D facility
A-SAFE, a global leader in workplace efficiency and safety solutions, hosted the final event of the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) Roadshow on October 3 at its Fathom3 R&D facility in Elland, Yorkshire.
The event brought together industry leaders from across the UK and included a series of presentations, panel discussions and site visits for the approximately 40 attendees.
James Smith, co-CEO of A-SAFE, commented, “Our 40 year history speaks to our grit and determination to innovate and lead from the front. We have consistently led the way, from creating the world's first industrial-strength polymer safety barriers to developing the latest IIoT technology,
that will deliver real-time data and continue to push safety boundaries.
“Throughout each decade, we have focused on understanding our customers’ challenges and innovating to resolve them. Our agility and drive have helped create an entirely new industry, transforming workplace safety and efficiency around the world.”
A-SAFE’s commitment to pioneering innovation continues with its recent advancements in Industry 4.0 technologies. The company has already introduced IIoT-enabled products that provide data-driven insights, further enhancing workplace safety and operational efficiency with a host of new launches planned over the next 12 months. The company was also instrumental in helping to establish PAS 13, the globally recognised testing methodology for industrial safety barriers. www.asafe.com
James Smith, co-CEO at A-SAFE, said, “I’m pleased to host so many of the industry’s big names at our headquarters in Elland, and it is particularly special to do so in what is our 40th anniversary year.
“Manufacturing is at the forefront of innovation and technology, and I’d like to thank the UKWA and its chief executive, Clare Bottle, for doing such an exceptional job at raising awareness of the sector. Moving forward, we must amplify these initiatives to demonstrate the cutting-edge nature of modern manufacturing and the positive impact it has in so many aspects, from the national economy to local communities.”
The UKWA Roadshow is an initiative that celebrates the association’s 80th anniversary. With 2024 being marked by UKWA as ‘The Year of Warehousing’, its chief executive, Clare Bottle, embarked on a nationwide tour from the start of the year exploring 80 warehouses across the UK and Ireland. This initiative has highlighted the cutting-edge technology and dynamic operations of the sector, while promoting its continuous commitment to innovation.
www.asafe.com
Lanes Group wins national award for road safety
Lanes Group has won a prestigious national safety award for a vehicle risk management strategy that is helping to significantly boost road safety during a period of rapid business growth.
The drainage and water utilities specialist has won the Best Driver Risk Management Performance Award at the Safety and Health Excellence Awards, which are supported by the British Safety Industry Federation.
Lanes Group was presented with the award, a new addition to the SHE Awards, at a gala evening held at The Vox, Resorts World, NEC Birmingham.
The company is using its Samsara vehicle telematics system in innovative ways, integrated with a driver engagement programme, to encourage safe practices among 3,250 registered drivers.
It is also one of only a few businesses around the
world that has a dedicated team to drive uniform standards and both safety and sustainability improvements across the company.
Lanes Group IT Director, Mo Dawood, said, “This award is a win for every single person who gets behind the wheel in our business, and the many
people who support them in their work.
“Samsara is a powerful enabler. But it’s the commitment of our teams to exemplar high driving standards and to working together to reduce road risks that is achieving these results. Let’s keep raising the bar.”
Over the last 24 months, Lanes Group’s use of Samsara has supported significant road safety improvements, including:
s 50% reduction in collisions
s 24% reduction in speeding
s 92% reduction in mobile phone use and distracted driving
s Average insurance claim value reduced by £3,000
Contact www.lanesgroup.com www.lanesdrainageservices.co.uk
Building Products & Services
Secure IT Environments completed offshore upgrade at remote Jersey data centre
Four air conditioning units replaced across two rooms in complex logistics operation
Secure IT
Environments Ltd
(SITE), one of the UK’s leading design and build companies for modular, containerised and micro data centres, has recently announced the completion of a challenging data centre upgrade project on Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands. The project involved complex logistics with all equipment for the project including three air conditioning systems being shipped to the remote location 14 miles off the coast of Normandy, delivering the project on time and in budget.
Air conditioning refit
Focused on cooling, this project on two rooms of a live data centre. In one room two end of life Edenaire IPAC 70-2 AC units were replaced with GEA Multi-DENCO Energy Efficient DX Freecool air conditioning units. These were partnered with exterior hybrid heat rejection units.
In the second UPS room, two existing cooling units were replaced with a single
GEA Multi-DENCO Energy Efficient DX indoor unit. To get the best efficiency from this unit, the installation was completed with a GEA Multi-DENCO down flow close control direct expansion air handling systems and a Denco ambient air-cooled condenser.
The revisions to the number of air conditioning units and types meant a number of changes to the pipe work runs through the data centre, bringing two circuits of DX pipework and two circuits of free cooling water pipework to meet the new air conditioning units. Upon completion of the upgrade SITE completed all commissioning, and testing of environmental monitoring systems, before refinishing the raised flooring in both rooms.
Weather warriors
Weather can
How do West Fraser products fit into MMC schemes?
David Connacher, Marketing Manager at West Fraser, discusses the products on offer to the MMC market.
What is MMC and does it account for a significant proportion of building activity?
The phrase ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ has been with us for three decades now, though you could trace the building methodology back to the early examples of prefabrication; products such as timber roof trusses and precast concrete panels were constructed offsite. Today’s MMC really started to gain traction in the ‘90’s, mainly through the increased number of timber frame systems, many of them from Europe or Scandinavia, being used for housebuilding. Greater emphasis on improving energy performance, as well as reducing waste in the building industry, is pushing more developers towards using MMC or
‘Offsite’ building techniques and the Scottish Government is in the process of making it mandatory for all new homes.
What categories of MMC do West Fraser products get used for?
While there are still some companies supplying basic ‘Open’ timber frame systems, ever more are moving to offering ‘Closed Cell’ alternatives which feature a sheathing board and factoryfitted insulation in the cavity which saves time on site for the builder. Then there are more advanced components including flooring cassettes and roof cassettes, or complete room-in-the-roof modules, which can be craned onto both newbuild and existing wall structures. These could use high performance panel products for the floors, fixed to rafters as sarking boards, or to clad the cheeks of dormer windows.
T 01786 812921 https://uk.westfraser.com
impact any substantial data centre project, especially when groundworks are involved, but even the smallest projects can be hampered when the logistics rely on shipping to an island. For SITE a critical element of the planning of this project was working with the supply chain to ensure the availability of hardware on Jersey. The project timeline was designed to ensure delays to shipping and deliveries could be accommodated, without impeding the ability for data centre work to continue moving forward and meet deadlines.
Chris Wellfair, Projects Director at Secure IT Environments, added, “Projects can be complicated in many ways, and at SITE we’ve managed a number of offshore projects, as well as those in restrictive environments such as hospitals. Our team and suppliers worked hard to deliver this project on time and in budget, and a critical element of that success is a relentless approach to planning and a close relationship with clients.”
Screwshop celebrating 40 years
Screwshop – the home of own brands Rhino and Turboqwik screws – evolved from its established sister company, NE Fasteners and are proud to be celebrating 40 years in the trade.
Over the years, we have grown from a small business into a trusted, industry leading supplier specialising in screws fixings & fasteners for the DIY, hardware, building, joinery, and furniture manufacturing sectors. Our success is built on a foundation of quality, customer service and
extensive industry expertise.
Screwshop stocks thousands of products and supply at great prices – you will be amazed at our competitive prices, all available with our next day delivery service.
Screwshop continues to expand its range of products and offer alternatives and brands you may be looking for, we are here to help!
Keep an eye on our website at: www.screwshop.co.uk for new product launches and exceptional deals.
Chris Wellfair, Projects Director at Secure IT Environments
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
Facilities & Estate Management
Fusion21 announces suppliers appointed to £800 million Building Safety and Compliance Framework
Following a competitive tender process, Fusion21 is pleased to announce the suppliers successfully appointed to its national Building Safety and Compliance Framework, worth up to £800 million over four years.
A total of 145 specialist firms – 81% being SMEs –have secured a place on the framework designed to support members to manage and maintain safe buildings and demonstrate building compliance.
Providing regional and national coverage, the framework has been set up under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and offers a new lot dedicated to sprinkler and mist systems.
The framework is split into twelve lots:
s Lot 1 Asbestos Surveying and Consultancy
s Lot 2 Asbestos Abatement and Removal
s Lot 3 Legionella and Water Hygiene Consultancy
s Lot 4 Legionella Monitoring and Control
s Lot 5 Fire Safety Surveying and Consultancy (Multi- Disciplinary)
s Lot 6 Fire Risk Assessments
s Lot 7 Fire Safety Inspections
s Lot 8 Passive Fire Protection
s Lot 9 Fire Suppression (Sprinkler and Mist) Systems
s Lot 10 Active Fire Safety
s Lot 11 Warden Call and Tele-health
s Lot 12 Electronic Security
Peter Francis (pictured), Group Executive Director (Operations) at Fusion21, said, “Our members continue to invest heavily to ensure the buildings they manage are safe. With the introduction of the Building Safety Act (BSA 2022), the responsibility to ensure building compliance has grown, and we’re delighted to be able to continue supporting our members with this framework renewal as part of our ‘big six’ offer.
“Having listened to member and supplier feedback, we’ve created a new generation of the Building Safety and Compliance Framework, suitable for all building types across the public sector.
“Working with a team of technical procurement experts and pre-qualified suppliers, our members will benefit from a fast route to market and flexible call-off options. As with all Fusion21 frameworks, this latest framework enables our members to deliver social value they can see in communities, aligned with their organisational priorities.”
Get in touch to find out more:
T 0845 308 2321
info@fusion21.co.uk
www.fusion21.co.uk
Successful suppliers appointed to Fusion21’s national Building Safety and Compliance Framework:
s A R G Europe Ltd
s A. Connolly Limited
s ABCA Systems Limited
s Adaston Limited
s Addison Green Limited
s AHR Building Consultancy Limited
s Airey Miller Surveys Limited
s Airtech Analysis Ltd
s AJS Ltd
s Allium Environmental Limited
s Alphatrack Systems Limited
s Amianto Services Limited
s Amstech Asbestos Removals Limited
s Approved Fire Safety Ltd
s Architectural Decorators Limited
s Ark Fire Protection Ltd
s Asbestech Limited
s ASEL Integrated Security Solutions Ltd
s Aspect Contracts Limited
s Axiom Building Solutions Limited
s Ayerst Environmental Limited
s Bailey Partnership (Group) Ltd
s Baydale Control Systems Limited
s BB7 Fire Limited
s Bell Group Ltd
s Bradley Environmental Consultants Limited
s C.L.C. Contractors Limited
s Calfordseaden LLP
s Capital Property & Construction Consultants Ltd
s Casa Environmental Services Ltd
s Checkmate Fire Solutions Limited
s Churchill Contract Services Limited
s Clear Safety Services Ltd
s Clearview Environmental Ltd
s Clifford Devlin Limited
s Countrywide Environmental Services Limited
s Danacom Ltd
s Delco Safety Limited
s DFP Services Limited
s Doors Plus Ltd
s Ductclean (UK) Limited
s E.C.G. Building Maintenance Ltd.
s E.D.P. Health, Safety and Environment Consultants Limited
s Ecosafe Heating Limited
s EDSB Limited
s EFT Systems Limited
s Enviraz (Scotland) Limited
s Environmental Management Solutions Limited
s Environtec Limited
s Erith Contractors Limited
s European Asbestos Services Limited
s evans & brooks fire Limited
s Ezra Safety Group Limited
s Fieldway Supplies Limited
s Firelink Protection Limited
s Firntec Ltd
s Frank Rogers (Building Contractor) Limited
s Frankham Consultancy Group Limited
s Franks Portlock Consulting Limited
s Full Circle Compliance Ltd
s G & L Consultancy Limited
s Gemini AMPM Ltd
s GMS Services Limited
s Goom Electrical Limited
s Green Shield Environmental Ltd
s Greenfield Removals Limited
s GTM Fire Protection Limited
s Gwella Contracting Services Ltd
s Harmony Fire Limited
s HCS Water Treatment Ltd
s Healthy Buildings (Ireland) Limited
s Holistic Fire Safety Ltd
s HSL Compliance Ltd
s Hughes and Salvidge Limited
s Hydraclean Limited
s IFI Group Ltd
s Integrated Digital CCTV Systems Limited
s ION Facilities Management Group Ltd
s Jackson, Jackson & Sons Ltd
s JFN Integrated Solutions Limited
s Keegans Limited
s Life Environmental Services Limited
s Lightside Limited
s Mango-5 Maintenance Limited
s Martin Arnold Limited
s McIntyre Compliance Services Limited
s Mears Limited
s Michael Dyson Associates Limited
s Miller Knight Resource Management Ltd
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Facilities & Estate Management
Bradshaw unveils new all-electric, compact RCV line-up for smarter urban waste management
Bradshaw Electric Vehicles, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of electric vehicles and waste management solutions, has launched a new range of Refuse Collection Vehicles which are specifically engineered to tackle the challenges of urban and food waste collection.
The Refuse Collection Vehicle range, which includes the Goupil G4, the long-wheelbase G4L and Bradshaw’s pedestrian PFB1500, are each designed to offer a solution to local authorities and waste management companies who need to operate in confined urban and pedestrian areas.
All three models have been made available in 4 body configurations; high tip body only, high tip body with bin lift, high tip body with bin lift and compaction arm or high tip body with bin lift and rear door for food waste collection.
Both the Goupil’s and Bradshaw’s RCVs are compact, agile, highly manoeuvrable and ideally suited to towns, high streets and pedestrianised areas. Their compact dimensions enable access through street barriers and around street furniture, while electric powertrains ensure a silent and pollution-free operation, making them an efficient alternative to traditional refuse collection methods.
The road-legal Goupil G4 is available with two lithium battery options, offering either a 62 mile or 93 mile range (wltp figures) on a single charge.
The standard G4-RCV has a 2.0m3 hopper and a payload of up to 740kg and works with 120, 240, and 360 litre bins. The G4L Long-Wheelbase adds 500mm to its chassis, increases the volume to 3.5m3 and works with larger 660 litre bins.
Based on the popular PFB1500, which is available with a number of body options, including cage body, Bradshaw’s pedestrian-controlled walkalong RCV is designed to tackle the challenges of urban waste collection in areas with high pedestrian footfall and limited vehicle access.
The pedestriancontrolled RCV handles 120, 240 and 360 litre bins and features a corrosion-resistant aluminium hopper. The ergonomic tiller head provides a comfortable and precise operation
and can be driven easily with either hand. With five braking systems, automatic hill hold, and advanced safety features, it ensures safe operation on slopes.
All three RCVs feature corrosion-resistant aluminium bodies with a 90° tipping angle for easy waste disposal into larger containers or larger RCVs for satellite operations, streamlining waste collection rounds and reducing overall time on the streets.
With increasing pressure on local authorities to reduce emissions and improve air quality, traditional diesel-powered waste vehicles are no longer viable. Bradshaw’s latest offering addresses these concerns by providing a zeroemission, cost-effective solution tailored for urban environments.
The Goupil G4 RCV in particular arrives at a crucial time for waste management operations following the introduction new recycling regulations coming into effect on 31st March 2025, requiring businesses across England that produce more than 5kg of food waste per week being legally required to segregate food waste from general waste.
Contact T 01780 782621 enquiries@bradshawev.com www.bradshawev.com
Facilities & Estate Management 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,
Advanced GSM electronics for modern security needs
GSM Activate is a leading manufacturer of electronic and access control devices, specialising in GSM (SIM card-based) technology.
Headquartered in West Sussex, GSM Activate has developed an innovative range of products that leverage GSM technology to deliver exceptional levels of safety and security for both residential and commercial applications.
By using your mobile phone as the central control point, their devices provide seamless management of security, access control, and automation systems. With connectivity options including strong WiFi and Bluetooth, and the near-universal availability of GSM signals, these products offer virtually unlimited range – ensuring reliable performance in almost any environment or location.
Following a recent upgrade, most of the product range now supports 4G networks, significantly enhancing both security and convenience. These advancements allow facility managers and property owners to monitor and control systems remotely, streamlining operations and improving oversight across large estates and complex sites.
GSM Activates comprehensive range of GSMbased products include alarm systems, access control solutions, accessories, and a unique Hearing Fire Alert System. Among its most popular offerings are the GSM Auto Dialler, GSM Multi Switch, and 4G GSM Intercom – three best-sellers trusted for their reliability and performance.
As a forward-thinking and innovative company, GSM Activate products are used worldwide – from residential homes across the UK to integrated automation systems in commercial facilities as far as Australia.
T 0800 772 0783 sales@gsm-activate.co.uk https://gsm-activate.co.uk
homeowners can opt for sliding gates, if preferred.
For additional ease and convenience, each gate automation has a remote-control 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.
Norton Rose Fulbright bolsters its real estate team
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has announced that Kirsty Harrower has joined as a partner in its real estate team in London.
Kirsty joins from Locke Lord where she was a partner. She is one of the leading data centre lawyers in the UK and specialises in advising clients on data centre projects both in the UK and internationally.
Kirsty also advises on a wide range of real estate transactions, including investment acquisitions and disposals; development and site assembly projects, refinancing transactions; and retail, office and industrial lettings.
She has acted for UK and overseas institutional investors, private equity firms, data centre operators, multinational telecommunications companies, occupational tenants, property companies and public sector bodies.
Kirsty will be working alongside Norton Rose Fulbright’s existing teams, who regularly advise on data centre projects both in the UK and internationally and have extensive knowledge of the complex legalities that arise in relation to deals of this nature.
Norton Rose Fulbright’s London Head of Real Estate, David Hawkins, commented, “Kirsty will make an excellent addition to our international real estate practice. Her knowledge around data centres is unparalleled and will strengthen our existing data centre experience and practice. In recent years data centres have played a pivotal role in the real estate sector, with an additional boost from the increased demand for data, particularly following the pandemic. We are seeing a strong pipeline of work in this area.”
www.nortonrosefulbright.com
ABM completes acquisition of Ireland-based LMC FM
ABM, a leading provider of facility, engineering, and infrastructure solutions, recently announced its acquisition of LMC FM, a Dublin-based facilities services company with coverage across Ireland. The acquisition reflects another step in ABM’s strategy to expand its capabilities and operations in Ireland. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The acquisition of LMC FM not only strengthens ABM’s presence in Ireland but also enables ABM to provide its full solution set to LMC FM’s portfolio of clients across both public and private sectors.
Further, the addition of LMC FM significantly strengthens ABM’s capabilities, particularly through the expansion of its Technical Solutions business, which provides tailored technical, mechanical and infrastructure expertise to ensure the efficient performance of complex facilities.
ABM SVP and President, UK & Ireland, Richard Sykes, said, “We are thrilled to welcome the LMC FM team to ABM. This acquisition builds on the continuous growth of the ABM business in Ireland in recent years, highlighted by major new client wins, including University Hospital Galway. The transaction also marks a pivotal step in executing our growth and acceleration strategy, and we look forward to further building our footprint in both the UK and Irish markets and continuing to serve our clients with excellence.”
ABM UK and Ireland specialises in providing customised facilities solutions to clients in the healthcare, manufacturing, commercial, mission critical, life sciences and transportation sectors. The company has over 2,600 team members across Ireland.
www.abmireland.com
and
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Energy & Power
AI-powered home energy storage lineup unveiled
Pioneering UK-based cleantech business, Wondrwall, has developed a ‘game-changing’ AI-powered renewable energy system for homes.
The new all-in-one integrated battery and solar inverter combined with the Intelligent EV charger allows users to benefit from 100% of the renewable energy the home generates, significantly reducing bills. The all-in-one battery and solar inverter technology has a long-life and is scalable to a capacity of over 25kWh. Due to the modular design, installation times are halved, improving the commercial economics of the new hardware.
The accompanying intelligent EV charger, at little over the size of an A5 notepad, is compact, untethered
and available in 7kWh and 22kWh options. Fully integrated with Wondrwall HEMS, the charger is tariff-aware and allows uses to not only charge with free solar energy but also negatively priced electricity for users on certain time-of-use tariffs. For ease-of-use charging is handled through one consistent UI in the Wondrwall app and additional security features include innovative fingerprint-enabled technology.
The unveiling of these products marks a significant milestone for the sector. Representing the next generation of residential energy storage, the all-in-one battery and intelligent EV charger – when combined with Wondrwall Energy Service Contracts (ESC) – can be installed in most UK new builds, alongside in-roof mounted solar PV, with zero upfront cost to housebuilders. Wondrwall’s proprietary Home Energy Management System (HEMS) is able to utilise 20,000 separate data points, including weather forecasts to anticipate needs and reduce costs automatically.
https://wondrwall.com
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Star Power expands into the North West
Star Power, a leading provider of specialist temporary power solutions, is excited to announce the expansion of its operations into the North West. From April, the company will be based at the recently enhanced Star Platforms depot in the region, strengthening its ability to serve both new and existing customers with high-quality, reliable power solutions.
By joining forces at this strategic location, Star Power will extend its reach, providing expert temporary power solutions to businesses across the North West. Working alongside Star Platforms, which specialises in powered access equipment hire, Star Power’s presence at the site will create a convenient, comprehensive service hub for customers requiring both access and power solutions for their projects.
Richard Miller, Managing Director, Star Power, commented, “This expansion into the North West is a key step in our growth strategy, strengthening our ability to deliver temporary power solutions across the UK. By establishing a stronger regional presence, we can enhance
service levels for our existing customers while also supporting new businesses with our reliable and responsive power solutions. With a dedicated team and the backing of our sister company, Star Platforms, we are well-equipped to provide outstanding service across the region and beyond.”
With a strong reputation for delivering expert temporary power solutions to construction, events, industrial, and commercial sectors, Star Power’s move into the North West further strengthens its position as a trusted partner for customers requiring specialist power services nationwide.
T 03300 535622
www.star-power.co.uk
Thermablend, for use in applications which include ground or air source heat pumps, underfloor heating and solar thermal applications. Thermablend-Lo
This new addition to the range, focuses on increasing the efficiency of heating systems with flow temperatures sub 80ºC that previously used mono propylene glycol-based heat transfer fluids.
A line of products that are specially formulated to assist in servicing and maintenance of closed loop heating and cooling systems, designed to work optimally with our range of Heat Transfer Fluids.
Lighting & Electrical
Luceco upgrades at Akzo Nobel
Luceco has helped Akzo Nobel upgrade the lighting system in the Polymer Plant Controls Room at its facilities in Gateshead.
Working with electrical contractors NEP Services, Luceco replaced the former wired wall switch and handheld remotecontrolled lighting to a widely accessible digital dimming solution that works with the lighting specialists’ flagship LuxPanel Backlit LED panels.
The room was first modelled using lighting design software Relux to confirm illuminance levels. Based on this, Luceco then recommended its flexible Platform technology for ease of use and speed of installation.
Lighting in the LuxPanel range is compatible with Luceco’s Platform wireless lighting controls. The Platform technology transforms existing lighting installations into an intelligent, wireless communications system. It’s designed as a scalable retrofit solution that enables full lighting control including dimming, presence detection, daylight control and emergency lighting testing. Reducing energy consumption and lowering operating costs, these features future-proof lighting systems with a cost-effective and nondisruptive installation.
Helvar Senses
The LuxPanel Extra features backlit LED panels with modules mounted to the rear of the panel body, enabling direct downward light distribution. This eliminates the need for a Light Guide Plate (LGP), resulting in enhanced performance and balanced illumination.
To ensure compliance with safety standards, Luceco also recommended upgrading emergency lighting in the space using its Tempus Exit Boxes and Bulkheads.
T +44 (0)1952 238100 uk_sales@luceco.com www.luceco.com/uk
Harness power of creative lighting
Schlüter-Systems is well known as the expert in enabling the design and installation of long-lasting, creative bathrooms and bathrooms with portfolios of intelligent products and systems.
The collection of lighting systems, which incorporate advanced control and luminaire technology, offers almost unlimited choice for the most imaginative schemes.
The collection offers the option of neutral white, warm white or RGB+W LEDs; the latter allowing for coloured and white LEDS on a single strip, to generate coloured light or temperaturecontrollable white light, which can be selected from 2,500K to 6,500K. The system can be programmed to deliver a choice of 16 million colours via a Bluetooth app and remote control.
Helvar, a leading innovator in intelligent lighting solutions, is excited to announce the official commercial launch of Helvar Senses, an advanced environmental sensing solution integrated into lighting controls. Building on insights gained from pilot projects across various industries, including successful trials with Rejlers and BakerHicks, Helvar Senses is now available to the broader market. By incorporating smart environmental sensing into its offering, Helvar aims to optimise building performance, sustainability, and occupant wellbeing.
When it comes to enhancing building performance through lighting systems, a crucial element has often been overlooked – the potential to go beyond traditional controls. Lighting systems, which already serve as one of the densest sensor networks within a building, offer a unique opportunity to provide much more than light. With the addition of environmental sensing capabilities – such as monitoring air quality, temperature, humidity, and noise levels – Helvar Senses collects actionable data that can optimise not just lighting but overall building performance.
The key is Schlüter-LIPROTEC which creates restful lighting for relaxing spaces, or bright, colourful lighting for a busy family bathroom or kitchen. It can be installed in a choice of direct or indirect lighting effects, enabling the interior designer, architect or property owner to illuminate feature walls, pictures, tiled areas such as shower enclosures or study spaces, kitchen countertops and stairways; in fact, anywhere the creative mind can conceive a plan for.
Suitable for moisture-prone areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and showers, the LED strips are completely encapsulated and conform to IP67 protection rating. Schlüter-LIPROTEC-EASY is the company’s simple plug-and-play version which comes with matching power supply units up to 100W. The Schlüter-LIPROTEC-PRO series, meanwhile, is geared towards professional installers and offers bespoke lighting solutions.
T 01530 813396 www.schluter.co.uk
This approach offers a scalable solution that is easier to manage and maintain compared to deploying standalone sensors. By integrating environmental sensing into the existing lighting infrastructure, building operators benefit from a unified system that reduces complexity, lowers operational expenditure (OpEx), and is simpler to maintain over time. By correlating data on occupancy and environmental conditions, building operators can make more informed decisions, leading to significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. For instance, integrating HVAC systems with Helvar Senses helps avoid siloed operations and enables better control over energy use by aligning air quality with occupancy patterns.
www.helvar.com/senses
Zhaga Consortium and DALI Alliance
The Zhaga Consortium and the DALI Alliance exhibited in adjacent booths at the 2024 IES Street and Area Lighting Conference (SALC), which took place 22-25 September 2024 in Atlanta, GA. The collaboration between two of the leading organisations in the global lighting industry highlighted their shared commitment and synergy to advancing the future of street and area lighting through innovation, interoperability, and sustainability.
The Zhaga Consortium, a global lighting-industry
organisation with over 600 members emphasised the transformative potential of the Zhaga-D4i standard, which is setting new benchmarks for smart, energy-efficient, and future-proof outdoor lighting solutions.
One of the key themes for Zhaga at the event was extending the useful life of streetlights through circular lighting practices. This includes promoting modular luminaire designs that allow for easy upgrades, repairs, replacements, and servicing
– critical elements for achieving greater sustainability in urban environments.
Visitors to the Zhaga booth had the opportunity to explore the Book 18 platform, an ecosystem of interoperable components for outdoor lighting that showcases the power of the Zhaga standard in delivering smart and future-proof lighting solutions. Attendees were encouraged to visit the Zhaga booth to see live demonstrations of the Book 18 platform and to engage with Zhaga experts, who were on hand to discuss details around the platform and product certification.
www.dali-alliance.org www.zhagastandard.org
UK takeaways guilty of shocking hygiene failures
Whether large or small UK takeaway chains hygiene management is at an all-time low putting customers at risk of illness.
UK takeaways are failing hygiene inspections at an alarming rate, with one in twenty scoring low in 2024. According to data from the Food Standards Agency, 200 takeaways scored zero and 3,630 failed their latest inspection in 2024. Worryingly, in Birmingham, 167 takeaways scored a rating between zero and two.
The COVID-19 inspection backlog has taken its toll, with takeaway restaurants falling into poor hygiene habits. Out of 3,630 that failed inspections were Greggs outlets in Southall and West Bromwich, which received a rating of two.
carrying out inspections to check whether food is being handled, stored and served correctly and have fallen behind in recent years. Outdated legacy systems and inefficient paper reporting have led to a hygiene decline, and UK takeaway chains need to embrace the technological evolution and digitise their hygiene processes.
Phil Meyers (pictured), CEO of mpro5, said, “If takeaway chains carry on as they are, we could be seeing another major food poisoning outbreak in the UK leaving vulnerable customers at risk. Quick-service restaurants must evolve and adopt process compliance platforms that enable them to keep track of food and fridge temperatures and time stamp cleaning rotas to ensure they are completed.”
BCIS reveals five year maintenance, cleaning and energy forecast
Maintenance costs, as measured by the BCIS All-in Maintenance Cost Indices, are set to rise 15% by 3Q2029, according to the latest forecast data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS).
Cleaning costs, mainly driven by labour costs, are expected to rise by 25% over the forecast period, while BCIS expects energy prices to fall by 15% over the same period.
“Increases in the National Living Wage and employer National Insurance contributions will push up labour costs, which will have a significant effect on cleaning costs in particular.”
Local councils are responsible for
www.mpro5.com
Chief data officer at BCIS, Karl Horton (pictured), said, “The UK’s economy is restrained due to fragile business confidence after the Autumn Budget. Additionally, high borrowing costs, a lack of skilled labour, rising labour costs, and a high level of insolvency continue to threaten the facility management, building services and occupant support services.
BCIS is expecting there to have been annual increases in all repair and maintenance (R&M) sub-sectors apart from public nonhousing in 2024, and to show 3.6% overall growth for the year. BCIS is projecting R&M output will rise 9.2% in the five years to 3Q2029.
Horton added, “Repair and maintenance output is expected to remain positive, with a slump in the annual growth rate in the near-term, but steady growth expected for the rest of the forecast period.”
www.bcis.co.uk
Training & Development
Star Platforms retains prestigious IPAF Rental+ accreditation
Star Platforms is delighted to announce its successful re-accreditation as an IPAF Rental+ company for the upcoming year. The company achieved an outstanding score of 98% during the comprehensive independent audit conducted at its Reading depot.
IPAF Rental+ certification is a mark of excellence in the powered access industry, ensuring that rental companies meet the highest standards in training, equipment inventory, and customer satisfaction. The audit, which this year focused on the Reading depot, confirms that Star Platforms consistently upholds these esteemed standards.
Del Patterson, Quality, Health, Safety, & Environment (QHSE) Manager, Star Platforms, commented, “Achieving a 98% score in the IPAF Rental+
assessment is a fantastic accomplishment. This result reflects the dedication and hard work of every member of the Star Platforms team. The IPAF Rental+ accreditation highlights our commitment to providing top-quality platforms and exceptional support to our customers, while maintaining the highest safety and operational standards in the industry.”
The IPAF Rental+ scheme, operated by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), identifies rental companies that excel in critical aspects of powered access operations. The certification process evaluates maintenance practices, training & safety records, environmental standards, and company policies and procedures.
The IPAF Rental+ status assures customers of high standards throughout the Mobile Elevating
TTC Group appoints Clark Hunter
Training and risk management expert, TTC Group, has appointed Clark Hunter to a key strategic Sales Director role, focused on expanding its client portfolio within the construction sector. A qualified construction health and safety practitioner, Clark brings to the position a wealth of knowledge gained from his time at health and safety consultancy Southalls, Hudson Health & Safety Services and more recently, HELPGB.
Clark (pictured) will be responsible for identifying and capitalising on opportunities to grow TTC’s construction client base through both its existing driver risk management and training solutions and its construction and infrastructure training portfolio, following its acquisition last year of accredited education specialist, Synergie Training. This includes its recently launched training courses created to help the sector navigate legislative changes as a result of the Building Safety Act.
“With experience of scaling a successful consultancy specialising in construction safety, as well as developing and implementing innovative safety solutions that improve operational risk management, Clark is perfectly placed to drive growth for the TTC Group in the construction sector,” commented Dave Marsh, CEO of TTC Group. “Clark has a reputation for having the ability to quickly identify client challenges and act as a valuable external stakeholder, dedicated to helping clients achieve their overarching strategic objectives.
“TTC Group is committed to providing comprehensive and integrated solutions to the construction industry, leveraging the strengths of both organisations to deliver enhanced value to their clients, and we are delighted to have Clark onboard for this journey.”
www.thettcgroup.com
We’re ready to support the UK’s ‘green’ skill transition
Griff Thomas (pictured), MD for GTEC & Heatly, both part of the United Living Group, comments on the government’s Apprenticeship Levy reforms.
Skills England’s first report makes for exciting reading for anyone in the building services sector. The report highlights that the transition to net zero will affect around one in five UK jobs, with a specific shift from those currently working in ‘carbon intensive’ industries – plumbing and heating engineers are a prime example. The need for skilled workers in ‘green’ jobs is centre stage, with a new ‘Office for Clean Energy Jobs’ set-up to focus on ensuring we have the workforce ready to deliver net zero targets.
Training is required from the bottom-up, as outlined in apprenticeship reforms also released yesterday, which will hopefully provide more flexibility to both learners and employers, with
shorter apprenticeship programmes identified as one of the areas being introduced. As the Skills England report highlights, employee investment in training has been in steady decline over the last decade so it’s clear that greater incentives are needed to change this situation. I hope this ‘flexibility’ extends to all types of training.
At GTEC, we are ready to support the government in these ambitions, with our existing renewable upskill qualifications and the many new courses in development – for building services and associated sectors. The creation of updated qualifications to meet energy efficiency retrofit targets, for example, was mentioned as a specific need within the construction sector, something we are working on alongside our majority shareholders, United Living Group.
www.gtec.co.uk
Work Platform (MEWP) hire and rental process, confirming their choice of a company that adheres to rigorous health, safety, and quality standards. To maintain this accreditation, members must undergo an intense annual audit, ensuring a proactive approach to continual improvement.
www.starplatforms.co.uk
Joiner dovetails woodworking with mindfulness
Chris Garvey, who runs CG Joinery and Building in Bedlington, has embarked on a new venture to address the critical need for education among young children on the power of a positive mindset.
His unusual deviation from his day job came after Chris took a personal journey of self-discovery through mental and physical challenges to help create a more confident and resilient version of himself. He recognised the lack of resources available for children to develop their mental resilience and self-confidence.
In response, he has incorporated Wolf Instinct Mindset, and within this business he has written a book and organised outdoor challenges aimed at fostering self-belief and resilience in young people. He is also creating a community and podcast all with the intention of educating parents on the power of a positive mindset and helping children forge a positive mindset.
Garvey’s primary business specialises in loft conversions, commercial conversions, HMO conversions and garage conversions; however, his recent focus has shifted towards addressing the mental health challenges faced by young people.
“My daughter struggled with her mindset and mental health a few years ago,” he explains. “I searched for resources to help her but found a glaring gap in the market for education tailored to children to help them understand and create a positive mindset. That’s when I decided to leverage my own personal growth journey to create something impactful for kids. Looking ahead, I believe that the next huge pandemic on the horizon will be young people’s mental health and we must act now to prevent this happening.”
https://cgjoineryandbuilding.co.uk
Landscaping, External Works & Drainage
McCoy Contractors
McCoy Contractors, a leading groundworks and civil engineering contractor, is playing a vital role in the major redevelopment of Coundon Court School in Coventry as part of the Department for Education’s 10 year Schools Rebuilding Programme.
Appointed by main contractor Wates Construction, McCoy Contractors has completed the extensive groundworks package for Block 1 and Block 2.
The £40 million project aims to create a modern, net-zero carbon campus while preserving the school’s heritage buildings and respecting nearby green belt areas. It involves demolishing six existing blocks and replacing them with three new state-of-the-art teaching facilities, with four teaching blocks and two locally listed buildings retained.
McCoy’s scope of works across the 3,500m2 site includes earthworks, site drainage, concrete floor slabs, installation of new services, and hard landscaping. A key challenge has been maintaining a safe learning environment while the school remains operational, requiring temporary classrooms, fencing, barriers and access routes.
“We are delighted to contribute our groundworks expertise to this transformative educational project,” said Chris Haughey, Managing Director at McCoy Contractors. “Our team has worked above and beyond to deliver high-quality groundworks while ensuring minimal disruption to the school’s daily activities, and a safe environment for students and staff.”
The Coundon Court School redevelopment is part of the government’s ambition to rebuild and refurbish schools across England, creating modern environments that support excellent teaching and allow students to gain the knowledge and skills for success.
www.mccoycontractors.co.uk
Shou Sugi Ban®: Adding timeless style to every exterior
Perfectly blending with other building materials, charred timber cladding is the exterior finish of choice for contemporary builds and heritage renovations.
Timber is recognised as a sustainable, thermally insulating and beautiful building material. Yet, as a natural product, it needs protection from the elements.
Exterior Solutions Ltd looked to the Japanese timber preservation technique, yakisugi. This controlled charring process increases biological resistance which includes:
s Minimising the effect of UV light, which causes weathering & fading in untreated timbers
s Limiting water ingress to reduce expansion, contraction & warping
s Preventing deterioration caused by insects, mould & fungi
The result is a low-maintenance exterior timber
cladding. Having mastered this art, Exterior Solutions Ltd developed the Shou Sugi Ban® range. For over a decade, the specialist team has handcrafted responsibly-sourced timbers in their Buckinghamshire workshop. From light, smooth brushed, to the traditional black crackled texture, this cladding offers the ideal finish to any build.
To ensure compliance with UK & EU building regulations, Exterior Solutions Ltd applies a treatment. Independently tested, Shou Sugi Ban® is certified as a fire-rated timber.
Specified by architects for urban and rural developments, this premium cladding is a marketleading product.
T 01494 711800
https://exterior.supplies/charred-timber-cladding
Segway Navimow unveils X3 Series
Segway Navimow, the robotic lawn mower arm of Segway, presented its latest flagship, the Segway Navimow X3 Series, at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, January 7-10, 2025. The new premium model robot mowers, coming to market in spring 2025, are designed to maintain up to 2.5 acre lawns with unparalleled efficiency and expanded functionality, no matter the size or complexity of the yard.
Segway Navimow X3 Series made to conquer large lawns with double the speed
The Segway Navimow X3 Series redefines efficiency with innovative improvements, featuring a larger cutting width and accelerated mowing speed for faster, more precise maintenance of a broader range of lawn sizes – up to 2.5 acres. These advanced capabilities allow the X3 Series to cover lawns up to 5,000m2 in just 24 hours, supporting a healthier lawn care routine with the ability to mow twice or more a week for optimal results.
Advanced EFLS 3.0 navigation to tackle challenging terrain
The X3 Series, powered by Segway Navimow’s self-developed EFLS 3.0-enhanced RTK coverage, vSLAM (Visual Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping), and VIO (Visual Inertial Odometry) technologies, delivers superior stability and precision, even in challenging signal environments, and complex landscapes, such as tree-covered areas, front and backyards, and narrow pathways with ease.
Based on the upgraded 300degree wide-angle camera and AI-enhanced algorithm, Segway Navimow X3 Series also offers enhanced VisionFence technology, extending the mower’s field of view, enabling efficient AI-driven route planning and reliable obstacle avoidance.
https://uknavimow.com
Bottling business toasts new floor
Kemtile, a division of Stonhard, has delivered a single-source drainage and flooring solution for Thomas Hardy Group, a family-owned bottling and packaging business. The company has production facilities both in Warrington and Kendal, where they package beers, ciders, soft drinks, juices and tonic water for a number of blue-chip companies.
A multi-national brewing business referred Kemtile to Thomas Hardy Group, referencing their experience with Kemtile delivering ‘fit for purpose’ drainage and flooring solutions on their sites and complementing their quality of materials, workmanship, and overall
professionalism. Kemtile was briefed by the Thomas Hardy Engineering team to provide a hard-wearing flooring solution suitable for use around a new canning line. The line was to be installed at their Warrington site, providing an all-important hygienic finish that is hard-wearing, easy to clean, and would help impress future clients.
The Kemtile team successfully completed the work over three months including the installation of 1,200m2 of Stonhard’s Stonclad UR and Stonclad UF systems. Stonclad UR and UF are both heavy-duty polyurethane flooring systems specifically designed to provide
high levels of hygiene and chemical resistance to product spillages and caustic cleaning solutions. These flooring systems also have HACCP accreditation, reinforcing their suitability for environments where safety is a priority.
The works on site also included laying flooring systems into the facility’s bunded tank areas and civil elements which included removing some existing concrete floor slabs and replacing these with new ones, treating cracks in the existing concrete with Stonproof CT5, a crack bridging bandage system.
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