The Decorator – August-September 2022

THE

DECORATOR

2022

The official journal of the Painting and Decorating Association • August-September 2022

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NOMINATE SOMEONE IN THE INDUSTRY THAT IS INSPIRING YOU TO BE THE VERY BEST.

Purdy’s Mentor of the Year competition is giving those learning the painting and decorating trade an opportunity to thank the person who is inspiring them to be the very best. If someone in the industry has sparked your passion and helped grow your skills, nominate them now. It could be your boss, your training manager or a college lecturer. One professional decorator and one college lecturer will each ZLQ e DQG WKH SHUVRQ WKDW QRPLQDWHV WKHP ZLOO JHW D 3XUG\ EDFNSDFN ƓOOHG with Purdy products. Two runners up will receive £500 each, with a range of Purdy products for their nominators.

Deadline for entries is 30th September 2022 To nominate someone who has inspired you, please visit www.purdy.co.uk

WIN THIS AMAZING PURDY BACKPACK FILLED WITH PURDY PRODUCTS

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Dear Members, I trust my letter finds you all well, busy and enjoying the summer, perhaps with a holiday in the offing. It’s hard to believe that it’s August already, where has the year gone?

For those of you who joined us for the Premier Trophy Awards, it was good to meet you all.

Warm congratulations to the winners in all seven categories, plus Senior Apprentice of the Year, Nicole Smith, and the Junior Apprentice of the Year, Harry Davies, it was encouraging to see all six finalists of the Apprentice of the Year competition attending. The application forms for the 2023 Trophy Awards and Apprentice competitions will be available to download from our website in early September. When downloading, please do take note of the actual closing dates.

The Association’s National Treasurer, Bob Smith, will be stepping down at the AGM on 22 November after many years dedicated service. If any Member feels they would like to be considered for the national Treasurer role, you will find details on page 4.

With regard to the AGM, it will be the first time since 2019 that we will hold a face-to-face meeting. I hope to see as many of you as possible attending this Member-only meeting at the Coventry Building Society Arena, held during the two-day National Painting & Decorating Show.

I hope that you have seen the information sent out via our social media platforms, newsletter and the magazine, regarding the Take Time Member benefit. With the cost of living increasing weekly, this new benefit couldn’t have come at a better time. Substantial cost savings can be made by simply logging on to the platform and downloading the discount vouchers for personal, family and business-related items. Simply contact PDA HQ by phone or email, and speak to one of the team to request your unique login details. You can also request individual login details for each of your employees, not just for yourself. This is just one of the many costs saving benefits now offered to you. I will have two new Member benefits to tell you about in the next magazine.

You will hopefully have noted some amendments to the Association’s website recently. The homepage has had a minor facelift, along with the company profile area, both the visuals and worded content have been substantially updated. Take a look at this re-worked area and update your page as required, this is your window to prospective new clients who can use the Member search facility. If your profile is fully updated, it will be sure to impress, and potential clients can simply click the ‘request a quotation’ tab.

Whilst on the subject of the website, the Markel Law Business Hub is there if you require any kind of downloadable documents to help with the smooth running of your business.

The yearly cost to you would be £189 per year were you to individually purchase this Member benefit alone!

For now, enjoy the rest of the summer and I’ll catch up with you again as autumn approaches.

Neil Ogilvie Chief Executive neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

@TheDecoratorMag

/DecoratorMag /TheDecoratorMag

elsewhere in this issue...

4 Association News 14 Members News 16 Training and Education 17 Health & Safety 20 Industry News 24 Premier Trophy Awards 30 Better Business 32 Case studies 38 Tooltalk

with Wayne de Wet

42 Products and services

THE

DECORATOR

Painting & Decorating Association 32 Coton Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5TW Telephone: 024 7635 3776 e-mail: info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk web: www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk Chief Executive Officer Neil Ogilvie neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

August-September 2022 — Volume 91 No 4 The Decorator is published by Catherine Saint Publicity on behalf of the Painting & Decorating Association

Advertising and Editorial Catherine Saint Publicity Telephone: 07941 590183 e-mail: catherine.saint@yahoo.co.uk

PDA Editorial Neil Ogilvie Telephone: 07796 942474 e-mail: neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

Artworking and Design empathicVisions Telephone: 07789 725074 e-mail: info@empathicvisions.co.uk

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those held by the Association. Editorial items in this publication and the statements and opinions expressed thereon are published on the understanding that the author of the contribution is solely responsible for the opinions so expressed. Although every care is taken with advertising, no responsibility can be accepted by the published for their products, services and other matters advertised. The publisher will not be liable for any loss or damage consequential or otherwise occasioned by error, late publication or the failure of an advertisement to appear in any cause whatsoever.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

takeNOTICE

@thePDA facebook.com/thePDA

The latest news and updates about the PDA and wider issues across our industry.

If you have something to contrubite email info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

PDA Vacancy!

National Treasurer The PDA would like to thank Bob Smith for fulfilling the role of National Treasurer for many years and doing a sterling job.

Bob will be retiring after the next AGM, and therefore we are looking for another Member to fulfill this important role for the PDA. Please contact PDA Head Office to discuss the role requirements if you would like to put yourself forward and/or think about this position.

MEMBERS MAKING GOOD USE OF MARKEL LAW HUB TO SAVE ON LEGAL FEES We're pleased to see that PDA Members are making use of the excellent Markel Law Hub, with the top area for information being Health and Safety.

So far this year, the PDA Membership has downloaded documents ranging from Health & Safety policies to Employment Contracts and a whole range in between.

All the documents are free to download and use by PDA Members by our the legal experts at Markel Law. If these documents had been created specifically for the Member, they would have cost at least £350 each.

The legal advice line also continues to be well used by Members, who can access advice 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The service is able to offer advice on a wide range of topics from employment, health & safety, and property through to wills and probate.

With high street legal firms charging £200 per hour, as well as being very convenient, the service saves Members £000s in legal fees per year.

Find full details of how to access the service in the Members area at

NEW CIJC PAY RATES Please note that the Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) Resolution and Promulgation Working Rule Agreement for 2022 has been agreed and took effect from 25 July 2022.

The full details are on the PDA website and can be accessed at https://tinyurl.com/PDASupport WR.1 Entitlement To Basic Rates Of Pay Classification Per hour 39 hour week General Operative £10.26 £400.14 Skill Rate 4 £11.06 £431.34 3 £11.70 £456.30 2 £12.51 £487.89 1 £12.98 £506.22 Craft Rate £13.64 £531.96 WR 1.4.2 Apprentice Rates Stage of Training Per hour 39 hour week Year 1 £6.13 £239.07 Year 2 £7.32 £285.48 Year 3 £8.54 £333.06 Year 3 with NVQ 2 £10.92 £425.88 Year 3 with NVQ 3 £13.64 £531.96 www.cijcemployers.co.uk

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www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

FREE CSCS CARDS FOR APPRENTICES ALONG WITH ISSUING Apprentice Cards free of charge, CSCS is also introducing a new process for anyone experiencing difficulties with their apprenticeship registration. In this scenario, the new entrant can apply for the Provisional Card for £36, before moving onto the Apprentice Card, free of charge. This means employers and apprentices will apply for a Provisional Card prior to completing the apprenticeship enrolment process.

The Provisional Card does not require the applicant to achieve a Level 1 award (as per the Labourer Card ), thereby reducing time and costs for both the employer and the new entrant.

Alan O’Neile, Head of Communications at CSCS said, “The Provisional Card is valid for six months, cannot be renewed and requires the completion of the CITB Health, safety, and environment test, which can be transferred across to the Apprentice Card. When enrolled onto the apprenticeship the Apprentice will move off the Provisional Card and onto the Apprentice Card free of charge.

“The Provisional Card option also gives employers and new entrants a six-month window to decide if the apprenticeship is right for them.”

See more at www.cscs.uk.com/apprentice

ASSOCIATION NEWS

A VIRTUAL CARD FOR REAL SAVINGS! NOT ONLY DO PDA Members benefit from everyday low prices in B&Q, you get 10%* off almost everything instore and online with the TradePoint Card, available as part of your Memberhsip.

You can now activate and store your TradePoint discount card online so you will never lose your card again.

Here is a quick guide as to how to set it up, it takes about two mins: • Go to www.trade-point.co.uk and bookmark it, so it’s easy to access going forward.

• If you are on a mobile device click “Menu” on the left hand side, on a desktop computer click “Sign in” on the far right.

• Click “Register” in the box which opens below (not the one beside sign in!).

• Select “I have an existing TradePoint membership card” and follow the link.

• Your card number is: 29xxxxxxx00001 and then your own postcode.

That’s it – Once the steps are completed just go back into “My Account” and your virtual card is there so you will have both a digital card and a physical one in your possession. You can also add your virtual card to Apple and Google Wallets.

Alternatively if you are a visual person, this YouTube link is designed for activating your card on a mobile device which may come in handy too... https://youtu.be/dbjj37gRtCs If you do consent to marketing, TradePoint will only ever send you the latest offers and discounts, and they don’t pass your details onto any third parties, so it is really worthwhile but totally your choice of course.

Don't yet have a TradePoint Card?

Fill in our online form and start saving www.tinyurl.com/PDATradePoint

~An opportunity not to be missed~

Vacancies for Judges If you are a member of the Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate and you can give some time between February and April each year, we would like to hear from you!

We have vacancies for two judges to join the existing team, an opportunity to put your skills to use inspecting the projects entered for the PDA Trophy Awards Competition.

The projects come from contractors and small firms across the country but one thing they have in common is outstanding work. From lighthouses to London theatres, you will view and inspect some amazing work. Site visits take place between mid-February to mid-April, and the final assessment is made at the end of April. This would require about ten days in total.

You will be invited to attend the Trophy Awards Luncheon Event, usually held the third Thursday of July at the prestigious Plaisterers’ Hall London. All out of pocket expenses are paid.

The ICWCI and the PDA are two organisations who work tirelessly to improve quality standards and believe in quality. Please contact the Painting and Decorating Association on 024 7635 3776 for further details and get an application form.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS As the cost-of-living crisis starts to bite and prices across the construction supply chain continue to rise, there are some key ways the Painting and Decorating Association can help you to save money. The PDA team work with a number of partners, including manufacturers, industry bodies and related services, to promote the trade and provide a range of free benefits and exclusive discounts for Members.

Here are six savings for PDA Members, from discounted fun with the family to legal support and advice...

SIX WAYS TO SAVE WITH THE PDA

SAVE on fuel Fuel is an on-going cost for the majority of decorators, who need to transport themselves, their equipment and sometimes their employees to each job. PDA Members can sign up for a free WEX fuel card to help offset fuel costs every time they fill up.

PDA CEO Neil Ogilvie says, “With an average saving of £200 per vehicle per year in 2021, the WEX fuel card, is a really valuable asset for businesses. And with the rapid increase in fuel prices seen in 2022, savings at the pump are an even bigger bonus.”

SAVE on business and legal support PDA Members have free access to the Markel Law Hub, an online resource of expert legal and business guides, templates and content provided by Markel Law LLP. Members also have free access to legal, tax and stress counselling telephone advice services through the Markel advice line and are covered by the PDA’s Commercial Legal Expenses policy with Markel Law. Neil says, “The average cost of a call to the helpline is around £50, while the minimum fee a solicitor would charge for the types of documents available through the Markel Law Hub is around £350.

“Insurance claims can take longer to reach their full value, but the average annual payment across all Members over the four years previous to 2021 is £10,868. Members can access these services for free, making substantial savings when they need documents or advice and support on everything from non-paying clients and employment contracts to personal matters such as making a Will.”

SAVE on dispute resolution Members and their customers can access the PDA’s impartial mediation, conciliation and arbitration service, providing a route to resolution.

Neil says, “If a PDA Member has a non-payment issue with a client, or a client wants to complain about a Member, they can contact our team and we will immediately start a mediation process with both parties to work towards a solution.

“Sometimes a non-payment can be resolved after a couple of phone calls, while some issues result in a site visit, testing and the involvement of our legal team. Either way, the service remains free to members and we will continue to work with them until the situation is resolved.”

SAVE on materials PDA Members can sign up for a free Trade Point card, giving them a 10% discount at Trade Point/B&Q, which is in addition to in-store offers, often giving PDA Members a double discount at the till.

Neil says, “Members who use the Trade Point card can save hundreds of pounds a year when purchasing paint, wallpaper, brushes and other essentials for the trade. At a time when profit margins are being squeezed and customers are budgeting carefully, every saving counts.”

SAVE on other memberships PDA Members can access discounts on membership of organisations such as CHAS and will receive regular updates from organisations such as BUILD UK and UNIEP. Neil says, “Our membership of industry bodies is an important tool for networking within the construction industry and for lobbying activities, giving us a voice in Government.

“But these memberships also provide important information such as the BCIS Price Adjustment Formulae Indices, which members use to set their rates and receive for free via the newsletter, which would cost £380+VAT each year access to this outside the PDA.”

SAVE on leisure time Time away from work is important, so to help PDA Members, and their employees, make the most of evenings and weekends with family and friends, the Association has partnered with Take Time to offer members a range of discounts and offers on dining, travel, accommodation and entertainment.

Neil says, “The cost of living crisis in 2022 is hitting us all, and we recognise that, as an Association, we need to support our members in their businesses, but also to make the most of time with family and friends. All PDA Members and their employees can sign up for Take Time membership to enjoy a range of deals and discounts from free MOTs and eye tests to discounted meals out, holidays and family activities.”

Trained, experienced and insured painters and decorators can

join the PDA from just £180+VAT for the whole year – That’s less than 50p a day!

To find out more, or apply to join, visit www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk or telephone 8

Membership Advisor Paul Whitehead on 07412 655562

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

ADVICE for

HSE PUBLISH WORKPLACE FATALITIES IN THE LAST YEAR, 123 workers were killed in work related accidents in Great Britain, according to figures published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The annual data release covers the period from April 2021 to March 2022, during which time most pandemic restrictions were lifted and the economy began returning to normal.

The industries with the highest deaths were construction (30), agriculture, forestry, and fishing (22), and manufacturing (22).

The three most common causes of fatal injuries continue to be falling from height (29), being struck by a moving vehicle (23), and being struck by a moving object (18).

The 123 worker deaths in 2021/22 is lower than the previous year, though it is in line with pre-pandemic figures. There has been a long-term downward trend in the rate of fatal injuries to workers, though in the years prior to the coronavirus pandemic the rate was broadly flat.

A further 80 members of the public were killed following a work-related accident in 2021/22. This is an increase on the previous year but below the pre-pandemic level. This is likely to reflect the various COVID-19 restrictions in place.

The release of the annual figures coincides with the 50th anniversary this month of the publication of the Robens report. The landmark report led to the Health and Safety at Work Act in 1974, which ultimately led to the HSE being set up the following year.

Since then, Great Britain has become one of the safest places in the world to work with the number of workplace deaths and injuries falling significantly.

HSE’s Chief Executive Sarah Albon said, “While Great Britain is one of the safest countries to work, today’s figures show we must continue to ensure safety remains a priority. Every loss of life is a tragedy, and we are committed to making workplaces safer and holding employers to account for their actions, as part of our mission to protect people and places.”

The figures relate to work-related accidents and do not include deaths arising from occupational diseases or diseases arising from certain occupational exposures (including Covid-19).

The HSE has also published the annual figures for Mesothelioma, which is a cancer that can be caused by past exposure to asbestos. The figures show that 2,544 people died from the disease in 2020. This is in line with the average of 2,523 deaths over the previous eight years. Current mesothelioma deaths reflect exposure to asbestos that mainly occurred before the 1980s and annual deaths are expected to decline during the next decade.

our Members

THE VALUE OF BUSINESS INSURANCE

BUSINESS INSURANCE IS a simple way to buy various types of insurance covers in one package to protect your business when something unfortunate happens. It’s an intangible benefit – a service that you pay for that you may never get to use and in fact, hope that you will never need to call on!

So why buy it at all?

Put simply, to protect your livelihood and the business you’ve worked so hard to build. Whether its theft, a spilt pot of paint, a fall from a ladder or a claim from a client, employee or supplier, incidents in the workplace can be costly and without the correct protection in place, you may be personally liable for any accidents or injuries you cause during the course of your business.

Insurance covers to consider Having insurance to protect you financially against accidents, mistakes, theft, damage and legal fees is essential to provide you peace of mind when running your business. Every painting and decorating business is different and therefore you need to consider the insurance covers that will protect you against the unique risks you face.

Some of the key insurance covers PDA Members should be aware of are: Employers Liability

Tools Cover

- to protect your employees If you have employees, it is your responsibility as an employer to protect the health and well-being of your staff.

One of the ways you can do this is by having employers’ liability insurance in place to comply with legislative requirements. It’s designed to protect you against any claims for compensation following an injury or illness suffered by an employee if your company is found to be at fault. It will also cover any legal costs if your Insurance Company chooses to defend your company’s position, as well as the costs and expenses incurred by the employee should you be found legally liable.

– to reinstate your items and belongings If you rely on equipment and tools to ensure the smooth running of your business and any of these were damaged, lost or stolen, then tools cover would respond to reinstate your items following an insured event.

Whilst this cover is not compulsory, tools are some of a contractors most valuable assets, therefore ensuring that they are protected with appropriate tools and equipment insurance cover should be a top priority.

Public Liability – for client injury or damage to their property The likelihood is your business involves work on-site or at a third party’s premises, therefore Public Liability is a must. If you knocked a pot of paint off a ladder that spilt over the carpet, your public liability cover can take care of the cost of replacing the carpet. If your client tripped over your dust sheets and sustained an injury that can also be covered under the public liability section of your painter and decorator insurance.

Professional Indemnity – for claims relating to professional mistakes Providing advice in a professional capacity can come with risk. No matter how careful you are, sometimes things don’t go to plan. Professional indemnity insurance is designed to protect your business in the event that a client suffers financial losses as a result of the work you do for them.

If your clients rely on your expertise and your actions cause them financial loss you could be personally liable to rectify the damage. Therefore, professional indemnity can give you peace of mind and financial security should something go wrong.

Premierline understand that every business is different, and adapt their policies to your needs.

Contact your dedicated team on 0330 102 2173 or pda@premierline.co.uk www.hse.gov.uk

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ASSOCIATION NEWS THE UK IS facing a serious cost-of-living crisis. Driven by eye-watering utility bill increases, rocketing fuel pump prices and record inflation that’s making everything far more expensive, while take-home pay isn’t increasing anywhere near in line with inflation. Many people are already having to cut back to get by, including the nation’s 3.5 million sole traders, the unsung heroes of the economy who make up 59% of the total UK business population, as well as the 405,000 people who run ordinary business partnerships.

Caution is advised when cutting costs, because if you cut them too much or in the wrong places, it can damage your business. But sole traders can potentially make savings in most if not all areas, including tax. That doesn’t mean doing anything illegal, of course, just finding ways to minimise your tax bill and limit your tax-management costs...

SEVEN WAYS TO SAVE ON TAX WHEN YOU’RE SELF EMPLOYED Claim all of your allowable expenses If you’ve been running your sole trader business for some years, you’ve probably already claimed allowable expenses via your Self-Assessment tax returns. These are costs generated “wholly and exclusively” to operate your sole trader business. You deduct these from your income so that you’re taxed solely on your profits. Do some research to find out whether you’re claiming all of your allowable expenses. GOV.UK is a great starting point to find out more about allowable expenses.

How might you be missing out? If you run your business from commercial premises or supply services at your customers’ homes, you can claim allowable expenses for operating a small home office for after-hours admin work. Make sure you also claim for all eligible business mileage costs.

Even small expenses such as postage stamps or a daily pint of milk mount up over the year.

Make Marriage Allowance work for you You’re probably already claiming your Personal Allowance of £12,570 a year, but if you’re married or in a civil partnership, find out about Marriage Allowance. It could reduce how much tax you pay if your income is below £50,270 (for 2022/23 tax year).

The Marriage Allowance enables a partner who is earning below £12,570 a year to transfer 10% of their Personal Allowance to their higher-earning partner, offering a potential tax saving of up to £252 a year. Visit GOV.uk for more information.

Lower your “payments on account”

Get tax relief on your pension contributions

Most self-employed people pay their Income Tax in two advance payments, one in January and the other in July, with payments based on the previous year's tax bill. However, if your earnings for this tax year will be lower, you can reduce your payments via your Government Gateway online account or by sending a completed SA303 form to HMRC.

Private pension contributions paid into HMRC-registered private pension schemes are tax-free up to set limits. As explained on the government’s Money Helper website, “If you’re a basic-rate taxpayer, the government will add an extra £25 for every £100 you pay into your pension. If you pay enough tax at the higher rate of 40% in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, you can claim back a further £25 through your tax return for every £100 you pay into your pension. In Scotland, you can claim an extra £1.58 for every £100 paid if you pay enough tax at the Scottish Intermediate Rate of 21% and a further £26.58 if you pay enough tax at the Scottish Higher Rate of 41%.”

Visit www.moneyhelper.org.uk for more on pensions for self-employed people.

Donate to a charity They’re not only a great way to make a positive difference, but donations to charities or community amateur sports clubs are also subject to tax relief.

Donations made through Gift Aid enable charities to claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give, as long as you make a declaration via a Gift Aid form.

Donations will qualify and long as they’re not more than four times what you’ve paid in Income Tax or Capital Gains in that tax year. If you pay tax above the basic rate of Income Tax, via Self-Assessment, you can claim the difference between the rate you pay and basic rate on your donation.

Claim for previous mistakes or trade losses If you’ve made mistakes in tax returns in the past four years, for example, by not claiming for all of your allowable expenses, you may be able to claim a refund for overpaid tax. You write to HMRC to tell them you want to claim overpayment relief. You must include proof that you’ve overpaid tax through Self-Assessment and sign a declaration confirming the accuracy of the new details you’ve provided. Obviously, you must not wilfully make invalid claims.

Covid meant that many sole traders made a loss in recent years, with some unable to claim government support. If you’re among them and you haven’t already done so, you may be able to offset a loss against profits made in subsequent years, which will reduce your next tax bill.

Visit GOV.UK for more on claiming loss relief when you’re a sole trader.

Do your own tax return If you’re currently paying an accountant to complete your Self-Assessment tax return, doing it yourself could save you a few quid. For a lower price (£50 or so), software can make completing your own Self-Assessment tax return cheaper, quicker and easier, with the software providing prompts to help you enter the right figures in the right place.

Such software also comes with customer support.

GoSimple offer digital income, expenses and tax submission all in one. Recommended by the PDA and London Association of Master Decorators.

All PDA Members get 30% discount on GoSimpleTax – log into the Member’s area of the PDA website and navigate to Tax Advice, for a special link to GoSimpleTax! 12

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NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

BAGNALLS IN TOP 100 OF APPRENTICE EMPLOYERS PDA MEMBER FIRM, Bagnalls, has been named one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in England, ranking amongst household names including the Co-op, Travis Perkins, Iceland, and Whitbread.

Bagnalls, a family-owned business with its Headquarters in Shipley, West Yorkshire, has a long-standing heritage of apprentice employment, stemming back to the company’s founder Alfred Bagnall, who was himself apprentice trained.

The company’s archives have evidence of apprentices being employed as early as 1899, when an apprenticeship in painting and decorating took seven years to complete.

Bagnalls has continued to support apprenticeships and in the past year, 24 employees started apprenticeships in Painting & Decorating, Site Management, and Accountancy. In total 7.4% of the total workforce were undertaking apprenticeships in March 2022, when the data was gathered.

The company’s commitment is further evidenced with 29 of the current management team having starting their careers as apprentices in various disciplines, including two of the current members of the Board of Directors, Lee Jeyes and Richard Britten, who started as apprentice painters with the business.

Bagnalls were elated to be named 78th in the Top 100 Apprentice Employers, a category open to organisations with 250 employees or more and at least 25 apprentices.

No mean feat when there were over 500 entries for the awards and Bagnalls were vying for a position alongside massive organisations including BT, the British Army, and Network Rail.

Ellie Jobes, HR Director commented, “I am delighted that Bagnalls has been awarded a place in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for 2022, especially as there were so many entrants for a place.

“I believe our success is down to our commitment to apprenticeships at senior management level, the continued support for our apprenticeship programmes by branch colleagues at both management and site levels, as well as the support given by local colleges who provide additional skills training for all our apprentices.

“Traditionally, our apprentices have been trained in painting and decorating, gaining skills on customer sites, at college and the company’s bespoke Training Academy in Doncaster. However, in recent years we have embraced the variety of apprenticeships available for all staff to uphold our value of people development.”

The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2022, developed by the Department of Education, is the national league table that recognises England’s leading apprenticeship employers for their overall commitment to employing apprentices, their creation of new apprenticeships, the diversity of their new apprentices, and the progression of their apprentices onto further apprenticeships and employment.

www.bagnalls.co.uk

TRIDENT BRIGHTEN UP THE SCHOOL DAY NEWTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL in Gosport has been given an exterior makeover to freshen up its student areas by Trident Maintenance Services as part of Hampshire County Council’s schools’ decoration programme.

With design and colour having a hugely positive impact on educational surroundings, it’s important for students to have the right environment to boost learning.

The school’s original timber tongued and grooved cladding was finished in a gloomy dark brown colour and had become worn and faded.

PDA Member firm Trident Maintenance Services chose to use Sadolin Superdec opaque wood protection paint for

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the project, which has a wide range of colour options and long-lasting finish, promising to last for at least ten years.

Crown Paints were delighted to provide the 220 litres of paint for the project, which took three weeks to finish.

Joanne Thomas at Crown said, “Design and colour can have a huge positive impact on an educational setting, so it’s important that students have the right environment to encourage learning, creativity, and play.

“That’s why we were so pleased to have been successful in supplying appropriate paints for this and similar projects. Crown products will provide a durable solution that will last for years to come.”

www.tridentmaintenanceservices.com

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

LEEDS COLLEGE LAUNCHES CONSTRUCTION COURSE...

FOR FOOTBALL-LOVERS! LEEDS COLLEGE OF Building may have scored the perfect course after launching a unique programme aimed at students interested in building, but who love football too.

The College is now enrolling for a BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Construction & the Built Environment, which incorporates an additional Level 1 Award in Football Coaching. This unusual pairing of premier qualifications is already proving popular with practically-minded students who are passionate about the beautiful game.

Denis Metcalf, Student Liaison Officer and Football Academy coach at Leeds College of Building said, “To my knowledge, no other specialist colleges like ours offer a football academy like this alongside non-sports courses.

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This is the perfect option for anyone interested in developing their football skills whilst studying a construction BTEC. By the end of the course, students will have a Level 2 qualification suitable for various careers in construction but also be qualified as a Level 1 Football Coach.

“This tailor-made course offers more vocational options.

It aims to provide a broad understanding of the construction industry, while giving students the freedom to play football every Wednesday in the ESFA College league. Students train every Monday with a qualified UEFA B football coach at Goals Soccer Centre and become a level 1 football coach - all in one year!”

Steve Connell, Assistant Faculty Director in Construction Crafts at the College, “On top of the Level 1 Award and BTEC Level 2 Certificate, students study Maths and English, gain work experience and employability skills, participate in a National Citizen programme with the chance to go on a summer residential, and get weekly access to JD Gym. Combined, this is an amazing offer.”

The BTEC programme includes units on construction technology, scientific and mathematical applications,

design, processes and operations, and drawing techniques. It also incorporates elements of carpentry and joinery, brickwork, painting and decorating, and plastering, ensuring students are even more employable and able to specialise as they enter the construction industry.

Simultaneously, the football academy programme teaches a range of transferable skills, player and coach development, passing, shooting, dribbling and attacking, FA Emergency Aid, and FA Safeguarding.

To apply, students must be over 16 and have five GCSEs including Maths & English at grade 3 plus three other subjects with an average grade 3. After completion, options include Apprenticeships, BTEC Level 3 qualifications, further football coaching development, or entry into the exciting and varied field of construction.

For more information about the course, visit www.lcb.ac.uk and search for The Football Academy, call 0113 222 6078 or email dmetcalf@lcb.ac.uk

HEALTH AND SAFETY

H

ead of Products and Markets at CHAS, Alex Minett, offers guidance on bringing FIR processes in line with industry best practice. As businesses look to drive progress on workplace diversity, buyers and suppliers should be prepared to evidence their competence...

The importance of

Fairness, Inclusion and Respect Embracing Diversity and Inclusion is not only the right thing to do, according to Diversity wins: How inclusion matters, diverse businesses thrive. The latest McKinsey & Company diversity report says data from 15 countries and over 1000 large companies shows, the most diverse companies are more likely to outperform less diverse peers.

It’s little wonder then that many organisations are looking to improve

Driving industry best-practice

performance in this area, a Chartered Institute of Building report

CHAS have partnered with the Supply Chain Sustainability School

shows that in 2019 the workforce was made up of just 5-7% BAME

to develop the Fairness, Inclusion & Respect Growth Assessment to offer

employees and 12% female employees. It also highlighted that fewer

an accredited evidence-based assessment that offers third-party

than ever 16-24 year-olds are entering the industry.

assurance that Fairness, Inclusion & Respect is being embedded

With demands for construction on an upward trajectory, an ageing

effectively, with a range of online questions and in-person interviews.

workforce, and an unprecedented skills shortage, the ability to attract new workers and retain existing talent is now more vital than ever.

What does the assessment focus on?

The CHAS Fairness, Inclusion & Respect assessment looks at:

Business benefits

• Commitment - the importance of strategy, leadership and

An employer renowned for equality and respect for its employees will

governance in a Fairness, Inclusion & Respect culture

almost certainly have an advantage in a hotly-contested recruitment

• Employment - how a company incorporates FIR when

market. A valued workforce also leads to increased employee engagement, which goes hand in hand with better productivity, allowing innovation and collaboration to flourish, all of which enhance business reputation and improve financial returns.

attracting and recruiting people, as well as their development • Working practices - policies and procedures that promote a strong working culture • Site environment - how sites are set up for everyone’s needs and offer an environment where a culture of FIR can thrive

Achieving Fairness, Inclusion and Respect Creating a culture of FIR begins with good leadership and a clear vision.

• Supply chain - how the development of a Fairness, Inclusion and Respect culture can be cascaded down to suppliers

A specific strategy should offer a set of core values on workplace equality and ensure all employees feel heard and respected.

This could mean introducing FIR training to staff, exploring flexible

What evidence needs to be provided?

Initially, the assessment requests evidence of how an organisation

working or publishing gender pay reports. A company that routinely

complies with their legal obligations relating to the key topics. It then

tracks and reports on its inclusion data, such as diversity recruitment,

looks for evidence of good practice – diversity and inclusion data

shows it is taking a robust approach to its responsibilities, particularly

(commitment) or the appointment of FIR ambassadors (site environment).

when combined with KPIs and actions for improvement. Reaching out

The assessment offers guidelines on implementing the key topics of

to minority groups for recruitment or collaboration also demonstrates

the FIR framework, eg. organisational data that shows how diversity

a proactive focus on diversity.

is tracked (employment) or demonstration of what proactive measures

Policies and procedures could be developed through staff engagement surveys, and at the same time, staff wellbeing schemes are crucial to

have been taken to reach out to minority-owned businesses to promote supplier diversity across the industry (supply chain).

supporting staff health and retention. Toolbox talks, FIR steering groups, and FIR ‘champions’ are all important for driving a FIR agenda.

Conclusion Industry is making progress improving diversity, this new accreditation will enable businesses to move from showing they are committed to proving they are making progress which will help to promote a fairer, more inclusive and respectful industry which is better for all.

To find out more about becoming FIR accredited, call 0345 521 9111 or visit www.chas.co.uk 17

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Huge HSE dust crackdown Why managing dust exposure is more important than ever The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently launched a huge crackdown on dust, with a month-long nationwide inspection initiative.

This isn’t the first time they’ve focused on dust, and it won’t be the last, so it’s important to check you’re handling the risks properly in your work.

Dust is an often underestimated but incredibly dangerous hazard in the workplace. Inhalation of various wood, chemical, and asbestos dusts – and indeed any form of dust in large quantities – can cause serious, long-lasting damage. Think asthma, lung disease, cancer, the list goes on.

And it’s not just inhalation that poses a huge risk. Getting dust and small particles in your eyes can cause severe eye injuries, too.

Here’s some advice from IOSH-qualified Health & Safety expert Michael Brown at Citation: —> Check your materials – Check the material safety data sheets (MSDS) before you buy fillers, plasters, paints and substances to make sure it’s the lowest hazard you can get.

—> PPE – Ensure that any PPE is suitable and sufficient, including face-fit testing, goggles to stop dust entering the eyes, and dust masks to prevent inhalation.

Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (CoSHH), the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, and other key Health & Safety legislation, employers must manage workers’ exposure to dust and put measures in place to assess and control risk.

So, it’s always worth reminding yourself – particularly when the HSE get fired up about the topic – what you can do to manage the risk of dust, prevent ill health, and avoid a heavy-hitting fine.

Health & Safety giving you a headache?

Citation can take the stress of Health and Safety off your hands, with risk assessment and method statement support, 24/7 guaranteed advice, hands-on site visits, and much more.

If you’d like to chat about how Citation can help with your business’ compliance needs, simply call 0345 844 1111 or email hello@citation.co.uk Preferential rates are available for Members of The Painting and Decorating Association.

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—> Dampen surfaces – This can reduce dust, as well as limiting the use of power tools. Also ‘wet-sand downing’ can produce less dust than dry sanding.

—> Training – Learning about the dangers of dust and how to control risks should be provided to employees.

—> Dust extraction systems – Proper dust extraction equipment should be used, such as local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or wet systems.

—> Look out for asbestos – If you’re working on a site, any materials containing asbestos should be made secure.

Asbestos insulation board, asbestos coatings and asbestos insulation should only be removed by a licensed contractor.

—> Risk assessments – Make sure you’re continually doing CoSHH risk assessments, revisiting them, and implementing and monitoring necessary controls.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

The latest safety campaign from The Ladder Association, Step Up to Safe Ladders, aims to shine a light on the very real dangers of poor-quality telescopic ladders on the market, to stop the sale of these unsafe ladders in the UK, and ultimately keep people safe when using ladders.

Stopping the sale of unsafe ladders Falls from height remain the leading cause of fatal accidents in UK workplaces. In 2020/21, 142 workers were killed at work. Of these, 35 were killed as a result of a fall from height, however no data was published to provide insight into what equipment was being used at the time, or what caused the fall.

In addition to fatal accidents, there were over 4,100 reported non-fatal injuries that resulted from a worker falling from height.

A recent research and testing by The Ladder Association of a sample of telescopic ladders, obtained both online and in-store, showed that four out of five of the ladders tested in this specific survey, failed the required safety tests designed to keep users safe.

In a market surveillance study, in partnership with East of England Trading Standards Association and Suffolk Trading Standards Imports Team, The Ladder Association put 17 telescopic ladders through their paces in a series of safety critical tests at the UKAS accredited not-for-profit UK testing facility, Test & Research Centre.

The test ladders were obtained anonymously from a range of sources including online stores, marketplaces, physical stores and included some ladders detained at Port by Trading Standards, to provide a fair and representative sample of the market.

The telescopic ladders were subject to key strength tests and dimensional checks, to check their conformity to product standard Despite these results, they want to be clear in saying: There ARE safe products out there, being sold or stocked by trusted manufacturers and suppliers.

EN 131-6. This is the standard to which all telescopic ladders should be made and demonstrates quality and safety.

The results make for some concerning reading... Over 80% of the

It is hoped The Ladder Association’s research, conducted in

telescopic ladders tested in the study, including some from our

partnership with Trading Standards, gives consumers an increased

best-loved retailers, failed to meet the minimum safety requirements

awareness around the issue and encourages them to exercise caution

designed to keep users safe.

when buying telescopic ladders, particularly online.

The new research has raised serious concerns that unsafe and

Worse still, over half of the failed ladders were marked and sold as ‘compliant’ in a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.

potentially dangerous ladders are being sold to unsuspecting consumers

You can view and download the full report

in the UK.

as a PDF at https://bit.ly/3uGHEtg

www.ladderassociation.org.uk Gail Hounslea, Chair of The Ladder Association, Andrew Fayers, Senior Trading Standards Officer at Cambridgeshire County Council, and John Darby, General Manager, Test & Research Centre.

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SECTOR NEWS

P&Dnews HELPING OUT HOLME FARM JON AT BREWERS Woking was thrilled to be able to help the brand-new community hub initiative at Holme Farm, a registered charity, formed by a group of individuals with a passion for bringing their local community together while helping to improve mental and physical health and combat loneliness.

Their ambition is to create a green space for the local community of Runnymede, Weybridge and Woking in North Surrey which offers a range of opportunities to improve physical and mental health.

Part of the ambition is to restore a barn to create a multi-purpose community space. To make this ambition a reality, specialist paints have been recommended and donated by Brewers Woking, with the help of The Little Greene Paint Company, to ensure the best finish for the project.

“We are very grateful for the generous donation of paint by Brewers to our community hub project,” commented Ronnie Kendall at Holme Farm.

“This is the first stage of renewing the buildings and the transformative effect has given both the site and the team of volunteers a real boost.”

We cannot wait to see Holme Farm evolve and see the results of all the Trustees’ and volunteers’ dedication and hard work pay off.

To see how Brewers lends a helping hand in your community, find them on Facebook and Instagram – @BrewersPaints

One of the buildings due for refurbishment.

BCF CELEBRATES CYCLING GOLD BCF CEO Tom Bowtell being presented with Cycle Friendly Employer Award with Russell Stephens of Cycling UK and Martin Fagan of Community Heartbeat Trust at the start of the BCF Charity Cycle.

THE BRITISH COATINGS Federation (BCF) has unveiled its new Cycling UK Cycle Friendly Employer Award. The BCF has achieved Gold Award status, the highest accreditation level of the award. The Cycling Friendly Employer accreditation is an internationally recognised benchmark for active travel culture and infrastructure in the workplace. To achieve the gold award, the BCF went through a rigorous auditing process to demonstrate a long-term commitment to promoting a cycle-friendly culture, with the required infrastructure and supporting policies in place.

The plaque displaying the award was unveiled at the commencement of the 2022 Charity Cycle by Russell Stephens, Head of Commercial at Cycling UK, he commented, “We’re absolutely delighted to be able to award gold accreditation to the BCF. By taking part in the Cycle Friendly Employer accreditation, the BCF has clearly demonstrated its commitment to encouraging and supporting cycling in the workplace.”

Tom Bowtell, BCF’s Chief Executive Officer, said of the award, “We are incredibly pleased to have achieved the Gold Award as a Cycle Friendly Employer from Cycling UK. Cycling has great benefits for both physical and mental health, the environment and much more. BCF are proud to support our team in getting involved with rides and bike maintenance to help influence the shift to more people cycling in the UK. We hope that through our Charity Cycle we can extend this to our wider community and raise money for a fantastic cause.”

BCF hosted their second charity bike ride for the UK coatings industry to raise money for charity partner Community Heartbeat Trust, who, along with the generosity of BCF’s decorative paints members, transform unused telephone boxes into life-saving defibrillator stations in rural locations across the UK through the Minutes Matter campaign.

The event has managed to raise over £11,000 for the charity. BCF would like to thank everyone who has taken part in the 2022 Charity Cycle and donated, plus their sponsors AkzoNobel, INX International UK, Teknos UK, Tronox Pigments UK, U-POL, BioCote and ASFP whose support is invaluable.

NEW IN LEAMINGTON THERE’S A BRAND-NEW Brewers Decorator Centre in the heart of Leamington Spa with hundreds of the best brands in decorating supplies plus in-store tinting facilities, you will be spoilt for choice! You can also take advantage of the Collect Anytime Service with a Brewers lockbox available at the new store, and daily deliveries.

Becki Marino will be heading up the team at the store, and has worked with Brewers for 13 years. Becki has unrivalled knowledge within the painting and decorating industry and will be more than happy to help with any advice you might need to help you achieve the perfect finish.

Brewers Leamington Spa store will have a range of offers, and new account customers will receive 20% off their first and second purchase in addition to a Brewers goody bag containing a t-shirt, enamel mug and more!

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Find details of your local Brewers store at www.brewers.co.uk

Sustainability with Dulux Decorator Centre Waste not, want not Dulux Trade Airsure & Evolve Our Dulux Trade Airsure products are ultra-low in VOCs† and our Dulux Trade Evolve Matt is made with 35% recycled waste paint*. *Resulting in the carbon footprint being lower than a standard emulsion like Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt †Based on in-can VOC content, measured in accordance with ISO 11890-2:2013.

See what you can do FREE Can Recycling Scheme Ensuring empty AkzoNobel cans are recycled reduces waste going to landfill.

One world, one community Community Projects We believe in using the power of colour and our resources to help transform lives by uplifting communities & making living spaces more fun, liveable and enjoyable.

Paints that positively impact people while helping the planet

Use the phone on your camera to scan to find out more about our sustainability story.

INDUSTRY NEWS

YORKSHIRE FIRM NAMED JOHNSTONE’S PAINTER OF THE YEAR WHARFEDALE DECORATIONS LTD, a Member of the PDA, has been announced as the Supreme Winner of the Johnstone’s Painter of the Year Awards 2021.

The annual awards recognise the top talent from across the painting and decorating industry and highlight the very best work carried out over the past year.

For the first time in three years, the celebration returned to an in-person event where professionals from across the industry came together at The Carden Park Hotel, Cheshire, and voted for the winners of the 39th edition of the awards.

The event saw 23 finalists compete across six categories: commercial, education, healthcare, historical, hospitality and leisure, and residential. From these category winners, one was voted Supreme Winner. Two additional awards were also presented for outstanding EWI and render projects.

The Supreme Winner The Supreme Winner award was presented to the winner of the hospitality and leisure category, Wharfedale Decorations Ltd, for its work on the Turkish Baths in Harrogate, one of only seven Turkish Baths remaining in the UK. Wharfedale Decorations Ltd was tasked by Harrogate Borough Council to restore the original beauty of the Turkish Baths, a building that’s importance lies in its decoration, elaboration and rarity.

The project included remaking the historical stencils and patterns that have stood within the baths for more than 100 years, a job that s was guided by only patterns on tion ora Dec le eda arf Supreme Winners, Wh the walls as the previous stencils t van!

Fia new nd bra a won also were too damaged to be used.

The team used Johnstone’s Trade Acrylic Durable Matt throughout the building and worked with PPG to create a colour palette that matched the historical colours previously used.

Scott Wilson, Director at Wharfedale Decorations Ltd said, “We were incredibly proud to be the category winner, but to go on to win Supreme Winner as well is unbelievable.

We were up against some really tough competition so for our project to be voted for by peers is an honour. The Turkish Baths is one of the most challenging and historically important projects that we’ve done, but also the most rewarding, and I can’t praise the team enough for the work and effort that went into this now award-winning job!”

The category winners The commercial award went to another PDA Member, Jack Tighe Ltd, for their work on the internal concourse at Doncaster Train Station. Despite working within a live environment bustling with passengers, station staff and other contractors, the team delivered a high-quality finish that met the client’s requirements.

In the education category, Dunningham Decorators Ltd won for its work at Saracen’s High School in Edgeware. The nine month project involved spraying more than 10,000 litres of Johnstone’s Trade Contract Matt and 2,500 litres of Durable Matt to a standard that met the needs of the Department for Education school framework.

The healthcare category winner was W D Davison & Sons Ltd, also a PDA Member firm, for the St Nicholas Hospital project, where the team used Johnstone’s Trade Acrylic Eggshell to transform a disused area of the building into a modern training centre for the Medical Education Department.

CPC Specialist Decorators won the historical category for its work at Grove Street Methodist Church in Retford repairing plaster work and repainting the ceiling of the church, an exact replica of one at Retford Town Hall, using Covaplus Vinyl Matt.

In the residential category, McLoughlin Decorating took home the award for its work on Regent’s Crescent, London. The team used a range of Johnstone’s Trade paints on internal and external areas of the apartment building, with the client commenting that the finished result surpassed their expectations and that the workmanship was outstanding.

Finally, the EWI category was won by P&P Building and Roofing for its work at Monmouthshire Housing, while NC Plastering was presented with the render award for the Whitby Cliff House project.

Rachel Copley, at PPG said, “The Painter of the Year Awards have always been one of the best nights of the decorating calendar but this year they were made even more special by the return of our in-person ceremony. The past few years have been difficult for everyone but that hasn’t stopped the professionals across our industry. The entries we received were outstanding and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to recognise and celebrate the tenacity, perseverance and craftsmanship of painters and decorators. Thank you to every nominee, and a huge congratulations to our Supreme and category winners!”

To get ahead of the competition and enter your work into the Painter of the Year Awards 2022, visit www.johnstonespoty.com 22

SECTOR NEWS

WERNER WARNING OVER TELESCOPIC LADDERS FOLLOWING A RECENT study by the East of England Trading Standards Association and The Ladder Association about the safety of some telescopic ladders on the market, Werner is urging companies to only purchase from reputable manufacturers.

The research into commercially available telescopic ladders found that 80% of ladders tested failed to meet minimum safety requirements, with half of those tested being marked and sold as compliant in a deliberate attempt to mislead consumers.

Recently, the marketplace has seen an influx of unsafe equipment that fails to comply with British and European safety standards. Often, these items have not been rigorously tested to ensure they are up to the job, and as a result, some retailers have been forced to withdraw stock from sale.

When choosing a telescopic ladder it is important to check that it complies with European Standards, that way users can be sure that the ladder has been tested to the recommended standard and is safe to use. If users are unsure whether a ladder is compliant it is recommended to ask the supplier for a copy of the certificate of compliance with the standard issued by an accredited test body (such as BSI or TUV).

Gurjeev Bola, UK Product Manager for Werner, comments, “Telescopic ladders are the ideal product for tradesmen on the move and who may not require the use of ladders every day. The benefits of these types of ladders are they are lightweight and easy transport, perfect for those with limited storage space.

“Although they are compact when collapsed, good quality telescopic ladders are extremely solid in operation and suitable for trade use.”

To help when choosing a telescopic ladder, The Ladder Association has produced a handy safety guide for users of telescopic ladders. The report includes guidance such as making sure users are buying safe ladders that meet the European product standard for ladders, EN 131. The guide also provides advice on good practice for using a telescopic ladder to work at height and finally, explains how to care for and correctly store telescopic ladders to ensure they remain in good condition.

The Werner Telescopic Soft Close Extension Ladder fully complies with EN131-6 and features smooth retraction and prevents finger trapping. With safety in mind, the colour-coded lock indicators make it easier than ever for users to see when the ladder is set up correctly, whilst the automatic locking mechanism provides extra security when in use.

Gurjeev added, “While it’s crucial to purchase high quality telescopic ladders, there are additional ways to protect yourself when working at height. Telescopic ladders have more moveable parts than ordinary ladders so it’s vital to carry out pre-checks and undertake more rigorous inspections before carrying out any work. By ensuring none of the elements have been damaged in storage or transit it can go some way to safeguard yourself during use.”

Werner has always been committed to ensuring work at height safety remains a priority on site and as part of this it has launched Stepping up to Ladder Safety, a new ladder safety campaign to help professionals stay safe in the workplace. www.wernerco.com/uk/ladder-safety

CMA DISCOVERS CARTELS IN CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING AN INVESTIGATION launched in 2019, the COMPETITION AND Markets Authority (CMA) has provisionally concluded that firms colluded on prices through illegal cartel agreements when submitting bids in competitive tenders for contracts. These bids were rigged with the deliberate intention of deceiving the customer that they were competitive when that was not the case.

The bids were rigged by one or more construction firms which agreed to submit bids that were deliberately priced to lose the tender. This practice, known as ‘cover bidding’, can result in customers paying higher prices or receiving lower quality services.

The CMA is proposing to impose fines on the businesses concerned if it reaches a final decision confirming that they have broken the law. In addition, the CMA has provisionally found that seven of the firms were involved in arrangements by which the designated ‘losers’ of the contracts were set to be compensated by the winner. The value of this compensation varied but was higher than £500,000 in one instance. Some firms produced false invoices in an attempt to hide this part of the illegal behaviour.

The CMA has provisionally found that the collusion affected 19 contracts for demolition work in London and the Midlands, including contracts for the development of Bow Street’s Magistrates Court and Police station, the Metropolitan Police training centre, Selfridges,

Oxford University, shopping centres in Reading and Taplow, and offices on the Southbank, London. Not all of the firms were involved in colluding in each of these contracts, and not every contractor who submitted a bid for these contracts was involved in the illegal collusion.

Eight of the firms have admitted their involvement in at least one instance of bid rigging between January 2013 and June 2018: Brown and Mason, Cantillon, Clifford Devlin, DSM, J F Hunt, Keltbray, McGee, and Scudder.

Two other firms, Erith and Squibb, have not admitted their involvement in any bid rigging and it should not be assumed that they have broken the law.

Michael Grenfell, the CMA’s Executive Director for Enforcement said, “The construction sector is hugely important to Britain’s economic well-being. Bid rigging can result in worse deals, which can leave businesses, and sometimes taxpayers, out of pocket.

“This is unacceptable, and the CMA won’t hesitate to come down hard on these activities and impose appropriate fines.”

The CMA’s findings are provisional, and it should not be assumed that any company has broken the law at this stage. The final total of any fines to be paid will also be determined at the end of the investigation.

More information on this case is available at www.gov.uk/cma-cases

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PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

PDA CEO, Neil Ogilvie.

APPRENTICE/ TRAINEE AWARD

Junior Winner, Harry Davies of LDC Decorating Contractors Ltd and Leeds College of Building.

A STRIKING REVAMP of a landmark lighthouse was declared the Supreme Winner at our recent Premier Trophy Awards held at the Plaisterers’ Hall in London.

Bristol-based painting and decorating contractor, Ian Williams Ltd won the Industrial category for its work at Longstone Lighthouse, and went on to be declared Supreme Winner at the awards ceremony.

A team from the contractor lived and worked at the lighthouse for three weeks, facing challenges including the location and environment as well as the weather and supply constraints due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Other winning projects across the eight award categories included work at Manchester Airport, the Theatre Royal and a property on the Chatsworth Estate.

Chief Executive of the PDA, Neil Ogilvie said, “I’d like to thank our award sponsors and our independent judges, who are all members of the Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI).

“They visited all short-listed projects to assess the quality of work and gain insight into the challenges overcome to produce the final result.

“Congratulations to all the winners and those who received commendations, on the skill, professionalism and commitment to quality that is recognised with these awards.”

The results of the PDA’s annual Apprentice of the Year competition were also announced at the Premier Trophy Awards.

After three regional heats which saw 42 apprentices take on a gruelling six-hour challenge of stamina and skill, the top three in the Junior and Senior categories were all in invited to the awards ceremony.

Senior Apprentice of the Year was Nicole Smith from Bell Group, who is studying at Queenslie Training Centre in Glasgow.

Senior Winner, Nicole Smith works for Bell Group UK and studies at Queenslie Training Centre.

Loyal

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PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

Main event sponsor

2022 Joint runners-up were Leeds College of Building student, Sophie Bennett, working at RBP Décor, and Archie Brook, studying at Doncaster College and working for Wrights Contractors Ltd. The Junior Apprentice of the Year was Harry Davies of LDC Decorating Contractors Ltd, studying at Leeds College of Building.

Joint runners-up were Katie White of Ian Williams Ltd, studying at New City College, and Jade Oakes of Ciaran Rooney Painting who is studying at Riverside College.

The competition heats were judged by Neil Ogilvie and Ann Cook from the Association of Painting Crafts Teachers.

Ann said, “Congratulations to all the competitors, and particularly to the prize winners who produced ‘just that bit extra’ when working under pressure.

“The apprentices conducted themselves professionally and were a credit to both their employers and training providers.”

Brewers Decorator Centres were the main sponsors of the event. Silver sponsors were jobmate, tesa, Citation and Axus Décor.

Loyal sponsors were Mirka, Owatrol, Purdy, Crown, Dulux Trade, CT1, Valspar Trade, Repair Care and Johnstone’s Trade.

Sponsors of the Apprentice of the Year competition were CITB and Purdy, with materials and goody bags sponsored by Brewers Decorator Centres and tesa.

For more about the Premier Trophy Awards, and how to enter, visit www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

Above; Apprentice competition judge, Anne Cook, with Simon Whitaker from Accrington and Rossdale College.

Last year’s Senior Apprentice Winner, Nicole Germaine.

SUPREME WINNER Ian Williams Ltd This company has been a Member of the PDA and its forerunners since 1997 and were founded in 1946. Their work is to the highest standard. This year’s project demonstrated an excellent finish achieved under challenging circumstances, weather-dependent, in a problematic location, and of course Covid-19 restrictions.

This is a well-deserved award to a company that has been successful through its high standards and quality of work over the last 45 years of membership. They have won six Category awards and thirty certificates from commended to very highly commended since submitting projects for these awards. They now have an Academy that trains apprentices for the future. A real credit to the sector.

sponsors

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PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

HIGHLY DECORATIVE

Very Highly Commended Alfred Bagnall and Sons (North) Ltd Riverside Pipe Bridge, Penwortham, Preston Client: Cadent Gas Manufacturer: PPG SigmaCover There were significant barriers to overcome on this project. Firstly, before the start, public issues via social media had to be resolved. The access and equipment storage area was very restrictive. Equipment had to be located at both ends of the bridge, which required road traffic management at the road end. The support structure was worse than expected and required additional work. The result is an outstanding repair and restoration – well done.

Highly Commended Jack Tighe Ltd Boston Town Bridge, Boston, Lincolnshire Client: Balfour Beatty (Lincolnshire County Council) Manufacturer: International Paints

Winner

Campbell Smith & Co Ltd Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London Client: LW Theatres Manufacturers: Dulux Trade, Farrow & Ball, Little Greene

This 1913 era bridge required grit blasting and structural repairs to restore it to good condition before painting.

The main town bridge and adjacent town market square had to be always kept open, so only one half at a time could be worked on. This meant 24-hour work was needed at times. The finish was an excellent job, and the client had nothing but praise.

An excellent high-class job carried out to a high standard not usually seen on one project. The variety of work was considerable – sponge work, spraying, gilding, wallpapering, unique finishes, acoustic foam, gold leaf and signwriting. The work area, which was quite large, was accessed using towers, cherry pickers and birdcage scaffolds. This project was affected by the Covid outbreak, and all the necessary precautions had to be taken.

The project was a pleasure to visit, and we can recommend anyone in the area to view it – Well done.

Very Highly Commended

Highly Commended

P A Schofield Ltd Lyric Theatre, Shaftsbury Avenue, London

UK Decs Ltd Trafalgar Studios Theatre, London

This job had real quality and was a pleasure to visit. The work consisted of an extensive list of wallpapering, gold liquid metal paint, French polishing, colour matching, and signwriting, to name a few of the operations. Most of the work was carried out from a birdcage scaffold with some towers. An excellent job carried out with skill and to a very high standard.

Very Highly Commended

A significant makeover with alterations and extensive repair and redecoration. This project was affected by the Covid outbreak. All the necessary precautions had to be taken, which delayed the project as only four operatives were allowed on-site at one time. The extent of the works included spraying, hanging fire-rated lining papers, picking out and fine detailing. There were difficulties in obtaining fireproof paint due to the pandemic. The result is a very neat and tidy job.

Cousins Group NoMad Hotel, 28 Bow Street, London

Commended

This was the conversion of Bow Street Police Station into a high-class hotel. The cells were still in place when the main contractor started work. The decoration was to a very high standard over multiple public rooms, bars, night club, restaurant, and hotel bedrooms of various sizes. The work consisted of varnishing, wallpapering with leather, picking out cornices, spraying, and hand painting sky scenes. A very neat and clean job the company can be proud of.

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CB Contracts NI Ltd (Bell Group) Signature at Hendon Hall, London This high specification nursing home had been converted from a hotel with a significant extension. Extensive repairs were required to treat damp areas. Most of the work was in the new extension with extensive wallpapering that required twenty different papers and paint applied to corridor walls.

A very clean looking finish and a great job.

Guest speaker Simon Brewer (left) with Stuart Yates (right).

PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

Highly Commended Hankinson Ltd Greta Bridge, Ingleton, Carnforth, North Yorkshire Client: North Yorkshire County Council Manufacturer: Johnstone’s Trade, PPG SigmaCover

INDUSTRIAL

The bridge in Ingleton required significant structural repairs before repainting. Traffic and pedestrian access had to be continuously maintained during the project.

In order to protect the local wildlife environment, strict environmental controls were required. An excellent finish was achieved.

Commended Jack Tighe Ltd Station Footbridge, Goring-by-Sea, West Sussex Client: BAM Nuttall Ltd Manufacturer: Jotun Paints Twenty-four-hour work was needed, as possession of the railway was required for the main elements of the job. After extensive repairs, this pedestrian footbridge was brought back to a high standard and finish. The paint finish was perfect considering the weather conditions – the contractor had to work in mid-winter. A nice job, and the client had nothing but praise for the contractor.

Winner

Ian Williams Ltd Longstone Lighthouse, North Sunderland, Northumberland Client: Trinity House Manufacturer: Rust-Oleum The geographic location presented access issues to overcome on this project, and the work was weather dependent.

Arrangement for access and procurement of all materials and equipment required careful planning, which included using the client specialist scaffolding. The selection of the team had to be carefully thought out as they were needed to both work and live on the project for three weeks in a very restricted environment. The result is the superb redecoration of a striking landmark which is a great credit to all involved in delivering a quality finish in a challenging environment.

SMALL CONTRACTOR

Very Highly Commended Hugh Irwin Specialist Decorators Ltd Craven House, Hamstead Marshall, Newbury This extensive, gated property required redecoration after water damage. Repairs and redecoration to the cornices, ceiling roses and light fittings with gold leaf to the decorative areas of the ceiling. Walls were crossed lined before papering and painting. Radiator covers and skirting, which were white, were grained to match the surrounding décor. French polishing and staining were also carried out. An exceptional finish, and this job was a joy to visit

Highly Commended Decorating by Lee Private Dwelling, 41 Stormont Road, London This private residence had a complete internal redecoration with repairs to damp areas and badly cracked ceilings.

Papering was difficult due to the ceiling not being level. The client and the contractor worked together on the colour scheme. All the kitchen units and some furniture were hand-painted to an exceptional standard. An immaculate and neat finished project.

Winner

Stuart Yates Décor The Gables, Eaton Hill, Chatsworth, Derbyshire Manufacturers: Dulux Trade A superbly appointed property on the borders of the Chatsworth Estate. The redecoration of the kitchen, orangery and staircase was to an exceptionally high standard, with crisp, clean lines, with an air of pure class.

The wallpapering to the primary bedroom was magnificent.

A fabulous job well done.

Commended Thomas Welch & Sons 28 Hyde Vale, Greenwich, London External re-decoration of this grade II Georgian House with impressive work to front elevation, especially around the front door with its stonework, railings, and steps. The woodwork was painted with oil-based paint and the masonry with water-based paint. Repairs were required to the woodwork. The paintwork really shone when the sun came out. Great job, well done.

Commended H J Lake Painting Contractors Private Dwelling, Lower Middletown, Okehampton, Devon This listed building has undergone several transformations, with several additions through the years. This meant the contractor had to contend with varying substrata. The end finish is a very fine job that both judges and the resident would recommend for an award. Well done.

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PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

COMMERCIAL

Winner

Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors Ltd Oxygen, Store Street, Manchester Client: Store Street Developments Ltd Manufacturer: Dulux Trade A very clean and crisp finish over a large project of 361 apartments, 12 townhouses plus penthouses, swimming pool, gym and cinema. The main contractor was extremely pleased with their overall performance.

An excellent finish was achieved in all areas.

Very Highly Commended Alfred Bagnall & Sons (East Midlands) Ltd Turneys Court, Quayside Close, Nottingham

Winner

Story Decorating Group Ltd Manchester Airport, Manchester Client: Laing O’Rourke Manufacturers: Johnstone’s Trade, Sherwin Williams An extensive project spread over a large area at a live airport with all the security issues. The spread of works included the main concourse, security areas and border control, carparks and access ramps. The CSR project involved training and education to adults and school children, and was very well received. The finished project was executed to an excellent standard.

Very Highly Commended Trident Maintenance Services Ltd Fort Nelson, Army Garrison, Fareham, Portsmouth

This old leather works and the former mill, now converted into apartments, required a complete external redecoration. The front elevation was fully scaffolded with the added difficulty of a busy bus stop that had to be kept operational. The properties were fully occupied throughout the works, and there was limited working space available. This is an impressive job that the contractor can be proud off, and the client had nothing but praise.

Highly Commended Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors Ltd A7 New Bailey, Manchester Good overall standard of finish achieved over a large project in a central location.

Twenty-one stories with 199 apartments, including a gym, kitchen, and communal area.

The floors and works were completed during the early phases of Covid.

DECORATIVE

This ancient military fort, now functioning as a museum, showed signs of neglect and needed restoration. Extensive repairs were carried out before painting. The excellent work was carried out in a very professional manner and we look forward to seeing the next phase.

Very Highly Commended Ian Williams Ltd Ballard School, Fernhill Lane, New Milton, Hampshire A converted mansion to a school had been allowed to deteriorate and required extensive repairs before decoration. Work was carried out at short notice to a very high standard.

The client had nothing but praise for the contractor. The painters on this site can be justifiably proud of the finish of this project.

Highly Commended Story Decorating Group Ltd 11 York Street, Manchester A development where the fit-out is still to be completed. A clean and very sharp finish, which included wallpapering as part of the project. A particular mention to the fire escape staircase/stairwell, which were finished to a very high standard.

Commended Davison Solutions Ltd The Guildhall (Hard Rock Café), Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne The project combines industrial and creative decorating styles within a franchised corporate theme inside a grade I Listed Building, the works also included external decoration. The finish was executed to a high standard and a striking result. The client was pleased with the works and post-completion support.

28

Winner

P & S Timbrell Decorators Ltd Farmhouse, Copsegrove Farm, Bisley Manufacturers: Farrow and Ball, Dulux Trade, Polyvine This was an exemplar project – without fault. It was an absolute pleasure to have judged this finished work, which was to an exceptional standard.

Many aspects of this project would also put it in the Highly Decorative Category – a true reflection of professionalism and skills.

PREMIER TROPHY AWARDS

RESIDENTIAL

NEW BUILD

Commended James Bordessa Painting and Decorating Services Private Dwelling, 85 Childwall, Liverpool Very high-class piece of work on a controlled budget and tight programme due to being an occupied family home. Redecoration of the bedroom and bathroom included resolving a wallpaper manufacture defect and still delivering within the timescale. Work also included refurbishing a built-in range of wardrobes and bathroom furniture to a high standard.

Commended Ian Williams Ltd Carlton Crescent, Stockport The building is a non-profit supported apartment. The existing unit was upgraded to improve the condition of residents and staff. The designer's input delivered to enlarge the social area and kitchen by adding a chimney and fireplace feature with high-quality wallpaper on adjoining walls. All achieved to a high finish by a socially aware contractor.

Very Highly Commended Whiterock Decorators Ltd The Parkgate Hotel, Westgate St, Cardiff Very little more to say. It was an excellent job and a pleasure to have had the opportunity to judge it – Near perfect. About the best job, we have seen over the years of being judges.

Very Highly Commended Barrington Decorators Ltd Eagle House, Rococo Gardens, Painswick Much work was required to restore this neglected garden folly structure. The contractor, working with in house carpenters in conjunction with English Heritage, has achieved an outstanding job. A contract to be proud of, and a great piece of work. Well done.

Highly Commended Ben McHugh 7 Clayton Road, Ampthill The work was a refurbishment of a 1908 house with a new extension. Various methods were used from staining, varnishing, wallpapering and painting. The contractor advised the client on colour schemes. The client only had praise for the work and the contractor and having seen the high quality of the finished project, this was well deserved.

Commended Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors Ltd Novotel, Paddington Village, Liverpool The quality of finish is to a high grade, particularly the high standard of wallpapering in all rooms and other public areas. The corridors include a feature 70-degree angle joint of two colours, and this was executed perfectly. The main contractor was pleased with the work and the firm’s resolution of any issues and problems.

Winner

Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors Ltd The Lexington Building, Liverpool Client: Moda Living Manufacturer: Dulux Trade On entering the foyer, you are met by the quality of finish, crisp lines, and soft colours resulting in a relaxed feel. This is carried throughout the whole building. The contractor was very happy with the team working, and the quality delivered. The client has used this project as the top benchmark for their future developments. This project is a credit to all those involved in the delivery and execution – a fantastic result.

Very Highly Commended Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors Ltd LJMU Student Life and Sport Building, Liverpool A new university space includes a large sports hall with a high level painted exposed soffit in the sports hall and other areas. Wall painting included specialist finishes, and all works were completed to a high standard. The finishes are wearing well on inspection, considering the high passage volume through them. The client was very happy with the service provided.

Highly Commended Cousins Group The Mansions, Wimbledon Hill Park, London A development of apartments in several blocks built over several years incorporating basement car parks with cinema and gym. Corridors were papered to a high standard; cinema walls had sound-absorbing panels with dark coloured ceilings. Gym walls were treated panels with mirrors on one wall. Covid impacted the project with a lack of materials at times. This is an impressive project - all decorated to a high standard and incorporating external landscaping. Well done.

Commended Rouf Homes Ltd The Lantern, Tayfen Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk This new apartment block is not totally completed. The overall finish looked good. The apartments had excellent features and a high level of environmental controls. The external area had artistically written paint signage. Overall, a great project.

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BETTER BUSINESS

I

love this bit of wisdom from Maya Angelou, “If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.” As humans, we generally don’t like change. We like to be comfortable, and we are also creatures of habit. We like to buy the same kinds of clothes, eat the same breakfasts, pack up the same lunch, keep with the same brands of paints and tools... At least until we feel they’ve let us down.

Whenever dealing with change, remember what hasn’t changed. If you still have a roof over your head, your friends and family, your health… whatever it is. There is still a lot in your life which remains stable.

2Practise gratitude for what you have, even the simple things.

2Take some time to reflect on what’s happened and why it happened, but don’t dwell on it or wallow in it. Then think about what options you have for the future. Times of change can be times to be creative about what comes next.

2If it helps make decisions, do a ‘SWOT analysis’ – listing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of different options. It can really help clarify how to respond.

by Charlie Budd We like the security of certainty, and we sometimes see change as challenging that security, even if things might

2Don’t make important decisions when you’re feeling really emotional about change. Doing things like the SWOT analysis and practising gratitude can help ground you, and make your decision-making more objective and clear.

get better, “Better the devil you know” and all that.

There’s a way of embracing change though, even difficult change and that’s by looking at the opportunities that change brings.

In nature, it’s often those animals that can adapt and change which are the most successful. The fox and pigeon have adapted superbly to urban life. The more adaptable you are to change, the more successful

Big changes and little changes

you’re likely to be.

There have been some really big changes for all of us in the past few years - Covid, Brexit, climate change... And none of them are going

Three rules for embracing change

away any day soon.

Wiser people than me have given useful advice on change, from the

There’s very little that we can do to change those big issues. We can make positive contributions, but we can’t change the big picture.

Greek philosophers to modern day business people. Here’s a selection: 1. Accept that change is part of life.

But as Maya Angelou said, what we can change is how we respond to those big changes, and we can certainly alter how we respond to little

2. Be open-minded to new ways of doing things.

3. Reframe how you think about challenge and change - see it not as a

changes in our lives.

I use the word ‘respond’ instead of the word ‘react’ because

threat to how things are, but an opportunity to how things could be.

responding indicates measured thoughtfulness, whereas reacting is

I often remember this great quote by Reinhold Neibuhr, “Grant me

often done in the spur of the moment. Reacting can be a very

the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to

biological and emotional decision.

change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.”

You react when you’re playing football and someone passes you the

If we can embrace change as not only inevitable but an opportunity

ball – it’s fast, momentary. You respond when you see how the play is

to grow, to experience life in a different way, then change becomes a

progressing and you run into space that will give you positive options

positive stimulus in our lives, it becomes a way to become more alive

if the ball comes your way.

and responsive. In business it can lead to changing what we do to be

Reacting is tactical - it’s about the now.

more satisfying or profitable.

Responding is strategic - it’s about the future.

Change can be a force for good if we respond to it positively.

Want to learn more?

Find me at www.chinbadgermedia.co.uk

/chinbadgermedia 30

@chinbadgermedia

@ChinBadgerMedia

charlesbudduk

BETTER BUSINESS

Stand up and

be counted

By Simon Turner, Campaign Manager for the Driving for Better Business programme LEADERSHIP IN DRIVER risk management takes many forms but there are two that stand out above the others. The first is a solid and authentic commitment from those at the top of the business, the second is making that commitment public.

It is so important that the leaders in charge of the business clearly commit to supporting those responsible for managing driver risk and that they can put into words why driver safety is so important to them personally and to the business as a whole.

This statement of intent is a great tool for supporting the creation of a strong culture of safe driving within the organisation, especially when used as an introduction to the driver policy or handbook, or even printed out and hung in reception or put up on staff noticeboards and in staff newsletters.

Making that commitment public and sharing the results and business benefits of your work in the form of a case study gives everyone in the business pride in their contribution.

Of course, leaders need to make sure their commitment is genuine, or it all falls down very quickly. A leader that states how important driver safety is, and then fails to take an interest or provide support when needed or, worse, actively goes against the policy such as failing to abide by a mobile phone policy or failing to pull up employees who don’t meet the standards, will quickly lose the support of the workforce and the culture will fail.

There may well be other things to report too depending on the size and complexity of your fleet. Reporting is essential because it shows what needs addressing to keep the fleet running in a compliant and efficient way. It keeps focus where it’s needed and prevents time being wasted on the wrong things.

Central to leadership is a that the organisation understands at board level what is going on with the fleet and its drivers. This means directors must take a keen interest in: • Collision frequency, severity, and cost • Staff absence and vehicle downtime from incidents

Regular reporting means: • You’ll know where your time needs to be spent to get the best results • Ability to quickly analyse and act on fleet trends • You’ll be better able to control both risk and cost • Directors will be aware of the issues you’re dealing with • You’ll be confident you’re making a positive difference Regular reporting also means you’ll be able to create a fantastic case study that can be shared to promote the great work you’ve been doing, something that’s becoming increasingly important in winning new work and attracting great talent.

It is vital for directors because they have the ultimate legal responsibility. It is they who’ll be called to account if it all goes wrong. Risk management duties can be delegated to a fleet manager or safety manager, but the ultimate duty of care cannot. Directors have a moral responsibility for ensuring that nobody gets hurt in the normal operation of the business and they also have a financial duty to shareholders and staff to ensure that the business doesn’t waste money – and poor management of drivers and vehicles can waste an awful lot of money!

Reporting allows you to set baselines and metrics. It allows you to track trends in both collision rates and operational costs. It also provides the basis for developing, implementing, and tracking plans to rectify adverse trends.

There’s no set frequency for reporting but it does need to be regular, maybe every quarter or every 6 months at most, depending on when you can easily get hold of the relevant data. Get your insurers to agree to provide regular reports on claims activity to help with this.

• Likely impact on fleet insurance costs • Uninsured damage repairs • Maintenance and servicing costs • Fuel use and efficiency

If you’d like to learn more about what you and your organisation should be doing and whether you have any gaps in your driver risk management, join the Driving for Better Business free programme at

www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com They have a wealth of free online tools and resources to help you understand where your priorities should be to reduce risk, control costs and improve efficiency.

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CASE STUDY

A

fter purchasing a property for renovation, the new owners called on the professional help of DM Decorating Services to decorate the entrance hall and staircase. After seeing the transformation on social media, we asked David Mockett a bit more about the project...

Stripped back and ready for filling and sanding.

Papering over the cracks The clients had recently purchased a house in Chorley, and it was in a pretty bad state due to not being decorated for many years. We initially conducted a thorough site visit earlier this year, so that we knew exactly what would be involved. After lengthy discussions, where we were able to pass on our advice, it was established that they wanted to create a nice bright atmosphere with a ‘coastal’ vibe.

The first job was to strip back all the existing wallpaper, we found a signature from the previous decorator, ‘J Morris 1935’! With the surfaces all exposed, it was apparent that many needed lots of filling work, which was then sanded off with a Mirka dustless setup.

Finishing off the application of Wallrock Fibreliner.

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All the ceilings and walls were then covered with Wallrock Fibreliner to provide a nice and even base.

Walls and ceiling complete, time to spray the woodwork!

A lot of the plasterwork was in very poor condition, so everything needed fully lining prior to decoration.

CASE STUDY

We spent a lot of hours throughly sanding down all the woodwork, including the staircase newels, balusters and handrails, which was then filled with Tikkurila Colowood before sanding again. In all, the preparation took the entire first week.

To keep everything ‘light and airy’, the ceilings and first floor walls were all painted with Tikkurila Anti-Reflex White 2 using brush and roller.

After setting up a barrier system, the woodwork was first sprayed with Zinsser B-I-N using a QTech Q5 HVLP spray system, followed by two coats of Johnstone’s Trade Water Based Undercoat, and two top coats of Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard with a quick sanding between each coat.

The final part of the decoration was to hang Farrow & Ball Atacama wallpaper on the walls of the staircase and hallway to create the ‘coastal’ feel, as per the clients’ instruction.

Thanks to the time initially spent on the site visit and discussions with the client, everything went exactly as expected with no unforeseen issues, so we came in exactly on time and on budget.

The clients were absolutely overjoyed with the end result, and we have received a fabulous review from them upon completion.

DM Decorating Services are Members of the PDA based in Chorley, Lancashire. You can call them on 07718 088662 or find them online at www.facebook.com/DMDecoratingChorley

33

CASE STUDY

W

inner of the Industrial Category and overall Supreme Winner of the PDA’s Trophy Awards, Ian Williams redecoration of Longstone Lighthouse, was called ‘a superb redecoration of a striking landmark which is a great credit to all involved in delivering a quality finish in a challenging environment’ by the judges. We look at the immense task required for this project, and why it was the well-deserved winner...

Isolated at the heart of the Farne Islands, stands Longstone Lighthouse.

Key elements of the project included:

Built in 1826, the lighthouse has been essential in the safe guidance of

• A hot water jet wash to the outside of the lighthouse, ensuring all

vessels around the Northumberland coast, vastly contributing to the

salt was removed from the surface prior to any paint application.

shipping welfare of the region.

• Patch repairs and renders, both internally and externally.

• Painting with specialist materials utilised to withstand weather

Scale of the Task

conditions and provide protection against corrosion.

The project comprised the internal and external redecoration and

• Internal painting of the lighthouse tower, bedrooms,

associated preparation of the lighthouse, of course the lighthouse had

visitor area and accommodation blocks.

to remain operational throughout the project.

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Special care had to be taken to avoid impeding the lantern, particularly

The 26 metre tall tower posed a challenge when considering access for

with the localised internal decoration. This involved assessing scaffold

the Ian Williams operatives. Due to the lighthouse being surrounded by

placement where required, taking significant precaution to ensure all

rocky terrain with no suitable platform for exterior scaffolds, alternative

guidance functionality remained fully operational for local transport.

measures had to be considered.

Access was, understandably, quite a challenge! A specialist abseiling team were subcontracted to assist with manoeuvring around the tower.

CASE STUDY

Internal works were also included in the project.

Parts of the interior were in a very poor state.

Owners Trinity House recommended experienced abseilers, which were subcontracted onto the project, and with their cooperation and specialist

involved showcased incredible preparation and commitment to ensure delivery of the specification within timescales and to a high quality.

equipment, operatives were able to effectively manoeuvre around the tower.

Although an incredibly demanding project, the three operatives, with

Weather and Working Conditions

collectively 81 years of experience, had the skills and prior lighthouse

Conditions were often unpredictable given the location and nature of

knowledge to make this project a success.

the works. These factors were all reviewed during planning stages and

The entire project almost exclusively used Rust-Oleum primers, waterproofing and top coat products – 1060 High-Build Primer, Alkythane, Mathys, and Combi-Colour – with Zinsser Perma on some internal decorating.

contingencies allocated to minimise potential delays to completion.

Incoming tides and rain could impact the progress of the project, so operatives alternated between the internal and external decorations during periods of adverse weather or high tide. Unexpected delays were

Physically and Mentally Challenging

considered and contingencies for substitute operatives were put in place.

The physical challenges of the project were met with mental demands too.

Throughout the three weeks of work, isolation presented mentally exhausting and challenging, with operatives not returning home for the duration, their workplace doubling as their temporary residence.

Crucial planning was also required to ensure all materials and supplies were ready for boat transport ahead of project commencement. All those

Ian Williams Ltd are Members of the PDA operating Nationwide. You can call them on 01454 328 000 or visit their website at www.ianwilliams.co.uk

35

CASE STUDY

S

tately Home, Hestercombe House, has unveiled the first milestone in an extensive 18-month project, thanks to specialist redecoration services and expert colour insights from Crown Paints, the interior of the Portman and Jekyll rooms now reflects the estate’s Georgian landscape garden, blending boundaries between indoors and outdoors...

A popular venue for weddings, art exhibitions, and family days out,

Historic features also had to be considered when it came to redecorating

Hestercombe House and its garden have been fully open to the public

the Jekyll Room, which had been neglected in recent years. Crown Paints’

since 2013. With the last noticeable redecoration investment taking place

Colour Studio used Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt Emulsion and Vinyl Matt

a decade ago, Estates Manager, Warren Leavens, called in the experts at

in White, to enhance the yellow tone of the tiles of the room’s large open

Crown Paints for colour and product recommendations, as well as

fireplace. Crown Trade Acrylic Eggshell in Antique Cream was also used

architectural and design advice on how to transform the estate.

on the wood panelling. Continuing with this fresh, green colour scheme

Armed with a fairly open brief, Crown Paints’ Colour Studio has enjoyed the freedom involved in taking the entire project from concept to

ensures the meeting room is a welcoming space and the perfect venue in which to host Board meetings.

completion. The team has used the first two rooms as an opportunity to

Crown Paints was also able to advise on floor restoration and finishing

create welcoming spaces that bring the outdoors inside, focusing on a

techniques. The next part of the project will involve redecorating the Column

colour palette that takes inspiration from nature and the estate’s

Room, using warm, neutral colours to provide the ideal wedding venue.

surrounding gardens.

Warren Leavens said, “I am passionate about colour, but with such a

The first part of the works saw the Colour Studio transform the Portman

wide variety of shades to choose from, I found it difficult to devise the

Room to create a new retail space with close links to Hestercombe’s

perfect colour scheme that would enhance all the rooms’ original

contemporary art gallery. The team used Crown Trade Clean Extreme

features. It was great to work with Crown's team of experts to finesse

Scrubbable Matt Emulsion in Fern Canopy on the walls and Vinyl Matt in House

the final scheme and specify the best products. Crown’s advice really

Palm on the ceilings, with colour hues inspired by rich greenery and foliage.

brought the room to life.

Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt in House Palm was also used on the room’s

“This project shows that historic house restoration can be done

infill panels. This type of paint prolongs the decoration cycle, which is ideal

sympathetically. I’m looking forward to the next part of the project to

for spaces that are open to the public and are faced with regular high traffic.

begin and being able to provide a beautifully serene venue that is perfect

The new space will showcase the work of artists and craftspeople from

for a wedding day.”

across the South West and will allow visitors to browse, enjoy, and purchase art works for their own homes.

The Portman Room is known for its extensive wooden panelling and collection of artwork, which is why the Fern Canopy colour was chosen to fit in with the room’s era and enhance its historic features. This first part of the project also saw Crown Paints work with other teams to redecorate, repair plaster work, refurbish the floor, rewire, and install a

36

specialised lighting system.

Crown Paints are an Associate Partner of the PDA, you can get in touch with them on 0330 024 0309 or visit www.crownpaints.co.uk

KLEENEDGE® LOW TACK™

KLEENEDGE® PERFECT EDGE™

flat paper tape leaves clean lines for use on delicate surfaces can be left on for 14 days

flat paper tape leaves clean lines for use on a variety of surfaces can be left on for 14 days

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Features & Benefits

WAGO

‘ Suitable for lighting and sockets

Compact Splicing Connector

‘ Quick and easy alternative to terminal blocks

@wagouk

‘ Rated to 32A / 450V

www.wago.com/gb

Removing light fittings, wall lights and sockets for decorating was an

‘ Reusable

issue until I found WAGO. They produce these incredible connectors that make light work of the task, as unlike traditional connector blocks, the WAGO connectors offer a simple lever instead of screws.

The re-useable 221 Series Compact Splicing Connectors provide cable splicing for two, three and five cables, plus an in-line single block which are fabulous for light fittings.

These are very compact connectors (8.3mm x 18.7mm x 18.6mm). Up to three cables may be connected on the 221-413 model, or if you are isolating simply use one per wire.

Strip 11mm of wire (marked on the side), lift the orange lever and push the cable fully into the connector using the clear housing to ensure it is touching the end, push the lever down, and that is it.

The connectors also feature CAGE CLAMP® technology which clamps the wire and any stray strands.

Always ensure electricity is isolated at the fuse board before using!

Monarch

Advance Oval Angle Sash Cutter @monarchpaintinguk

www.monarchpainting.co.uk

I appreciate that choosing a paintbrush is a personal choice based on how each of us paints, and what type of coating we apply. I want to share my experience using the Monarch Advance Oval

Features & Benefits

‘ 75mm, 63mm, 50mm and 38mm ‘ Stainless steel ferrule and pins

‘ Advanced tapered synthetic filament ‘ Suitable for all paints

Angle Sash Cutter.

So many factors make up a good brush of course, but the most important part is the ‘business end’, the filaments. Manufactured using their incredible technology of advanced synthetic tapered filaments, when blended they form a chisel end and are like fine soft needles, except they have various levels of firmness, flexibility and length, for exceptional results.

I have tried them in various coatings, and they performed well. Although brushes do not need wearing in I always wet the brush in whatever coating I am using, a quick spin out and the brush is ready to use! This pre-conditioning really makes a huge difference allowing the coating to flow into the stock of the brush and be released.

The long timber handle is handy when cutting in ceiling lines or hard-to-reach areas as it allows better reach without over-stretching.

The brush is lightweight but still holds plenty of paint, and the angle reduces wrist stress when painting the face of coving and skirting.

StealthMounts

Bench Belts @stealthmounts

www.batterymounts.com

Have you ever misplaced a tape measure, safety glasses or any other item you need? StealthMounts® have created the solution – the ingenious Bench Belt.

Made from strong injection moulded ABS plastic, it has two countersunk holes for you to screw it onto your workbench edge or, in my case, the ply racking in my van and the walls in my workshop.

Available in six colours: black, red, blue, yellow, green, and pink. Simply use the clip on the back of the tape measure, or any other tool with a belt clip, slide it over the Bench Belt, and your tape measure has a permanent home where you can always find it...

As long as you put it away previously!

Features & Benefits ‘ Six pack

‘ ABS plastic

‘ Countersunk fixing holes ‘ Six colour options

38

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Tracer

Permanent Markers @tracertools www.tracer-tools.com

! l l a t i n i W

See page 40! —>

On my recent hand-painted kitchen job, I removed the Blum hinges so I could carry out preparation and finishing. 25 years ago, I learned that everything needs a label, especially hinges! So now, I mark ‘top, middle or bottom’ on the reverse side of the cup hinge, and then inside the cup hole on the door to correspond.

This job is made easier with Tracer Professional Permanent Markers. Any other marker just is not good enough! They are trade quality, and I use them and recommend them on my job sites.

The markers come in black, blue and red, separately or in a mixed four pack. Each pen

Features & Benefits

‘ Permanent quick drying markers ‘ 1mm and 2mm bullet acrylic tip ‘ Interior and exterior use ‘ Durable acrylic tip

Features & Benefits

has a 1mm to 2mm bullet point acrylic tip, they are suitable for interior and exterior use and on materials such as cabinet hinges, metal, wood, plastic, ceramic and, of course, for general

‘ Holds five bits

‘ Magnetic side rail for screws and washers ‘ Recyclable tough ABS plastic ‘ Made in England

marking. They also use quick drying ink, so less

StealthMounts

likely to smudge.

Magnetic Bit Holder @stealthmounts www.batterymounts.com Do you have to change/replace the impact bits, and how many impact bits have you lost on a project? I’ve solved this problem with another great product from StealthMounts, the Magnetic Bit Holder. Now I can store five bits on my Milwaukee Impact Driver, plus avoid screws and washers from getting lost by placing them on the side rail, as the built-in magnet holds them all in place.

Mountable at any angle, they are made from tough

Features & Benefits

injection moulded ABS plastic which can be recycled.

‘ Fingertip sanding on any substrate

‘ Made in Britain from tough polypropylene

‘ Use any ‘hook and loop’ backed abrasives

@cardsander

These are available for many leading power tool brands in

JTP Products

SanderCard

with mounting screws for my Milwaukee M18 power tools.

www.sandercard.com

I think SanderCard is long overdue... At last, I don’t have to improvise with Abranet, duct tape and scrapers! Like me, you’ll probably wonder how you managed without it!

SanderCard measures 125mm x 104mm and is approximately 2mm thick, manufactured from tough blue polypropylene with a 50mm premium quality Velcro ® strip across the lower half.

It comes supplied with ten sheets of mixed high-quality Velcro backed wet and dry ceramic grit abrasives, so you’re ready to start sanding immediately.

Any detail sanding is made easier, especially in corners and on edges, and you can use more of the abrasives by trimming off worn-out sections and rotating them.

It makes easy work of sanding skirting where gripper rods are present, so less blood and pain! Sanding next to glass is also painless as the card’s edge glides on the glass preventing scratches.

their branded colours. The twin pack is supplied in red or black

tool TALK

Products independently tested and reviewed

by Award Winning Decorator, Wayne de Wet 39

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Features & Benefits ‘ ABS handle and trigger

Bessey

‘ Cam operated a multistage ratchet

Bench Clamp

‘ Quality cold drawn steel profile with docking base ‘ Throat depth 80mm, Opening 150mm

@besseytool_uk www.bessey.de

Just when I thought I had all the clamps I could need, Bessey produce the most amazing clamp ever.

Most of my carpentry is carried out on an MFT with a Bora Centipede base, and recently I installed some moisture-resistant MDF windowsills, trimmed with my Festool rail saw. Safety is always on my mind, so everything got clamped using these Bessey TW20-15-8-KLI Clamps.

My MFT has lots of 20mm holes, these are for clamping the workpiece and using Bench Dogs that allow you to push workpieces up to them like stop ends.

Bessey Clamps have been manufactured with a quality cold-drawn steel docking base profile that fits into the 20mm table holes. On each edge, tiny gripping groves help prevent the lightweight magnesium sliding arm from slipping.

A simple ratchet of the handle and the workpiece is held, and with a clamping force of

tool TALK

500 Newtons yet only weighing 0.31kg, these clamps speed up everything.

Polyvine

decorators varnish

@polyvine_uk

www.polyvine.com

It’s true that for products, my firm favourites remain so over the years because they work so well!

One such product is Polyvine decorators varnish. I remember being asked to wallpaper a bathroom with a paper that wasn’t suitable, the interior designer specified this varnish to seal and protect it.

After that I was hooked, and I have used it ever since as it’s so versatile, it is always in my van.

Providing that extra protection quickly and efficiently, it is developed and manufactured in the UK using nano-technology to give this incredible water-based clear acrylic varnish.

It is an all-around superhero!

Suitable for interior and exterior use on an impressive selection of surfaces like cured and dry paint, fabric, wallpaper, wood, and plasterwork.

Polyvine decorators varnish is microporous, heat, stain, water and abrasion resistant, plus it has UV

Features & Benefits

filter protection. It is even food and child-safe when

‘ Clear finish with three finish options

completely dry!

Equipment is easily cleaned in soapy water, it dries in 15-60 mins, and comes in three clear finish

‘ Interior and exterior use ‘ Fast drying

‘ Developed and manufactured in the UK

options of gloss, satin and dead flat.

Win it all!

One of each item reviewed in this edition of Tooltalk are available to one lucky PDA Member!

the-decorator.co.uk For your chance to win, send an email to tooltalk@ ett of DM Decorating Services.

Well done to our most recent winner, David Mock

You can find Wayne on...

40

@ToolTalk1

@ToolTalk1

PERFECT COLOUR

CREATED TIME AFTER TIME, CAN AFTER CAN, WITH THE DULUX TRADE PERFORMANCE YOU EXPECT. WE PROMISE.

T22096

We Promise our paint will give you the perfect colour with a uniform finish and the coverage stated, or we’ll replace it. That’s a promise.

Terms and conditions apply. Claims must be made within 6 months of purchase. Proof of purchase required.

Colour claims limited to 10L per customer. Manufacturer’s tips and instructions must have been followed. UK purchases only.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

To protect and restore /barrettineproducts

.co.uk www.brewers

www.barrettinepro.co.uk

Barrettine Premier Wood Preserver provides long lasting protection against wooddestroying fungi (wet rot), wood discolouring

off the shelf

fungi and wood-boring insects with added protection from the elements due to its superb quality water repellent resins. The

New Benjamin Moore primers available from Brewers!

high-quality, low odour oil/Spirit formulation is deep penetrating and contains UV Fade

Fast Sanding Primer is ready to sand in just

Resistant pigments in all eight colour

one hour, making it the ideal product for

variations. The final finish is matt/satin and

projects requiring a fast turnaround. The

semi-transparent allowing the natural wood

acrylic formula in the primer allows the

texture to be visible. Premier Wood Preserver

product to be sanded to powder which creates

can be used on pressure-treated wood,

a smooth base coat, providing a perfect base

treated or untreated rough, sawn or smooth

to apply an ultra-smooth topcoat. With

timber, requires no over sealing.

excellent flow and levelling, Fast Sanding Primer has outstanding sealing and holdout

Inspired by nature, formulated to bring a natural

with low VOC content. The product is suitable

product back to life, Barrettine Wood Reviver is a

for priming new interior wood surfaces as well as plaster and plasterboard.

unique, water-based formulation containing oxalic

Available in a white, low sheen finish in 3.79 litres.

acid, a biodegradable organic acid found naturally Benjamin Moore Multi-Purpose Primer is a 100% acrylic primer which has

in plants such as rhubarb and spinach. It will turn back the clock, restoring grey, UV-damaged wood

strong adhesion to interior and exterior substrates. The product is quick drying

to its original warm tones. Wood Reviver can also

and can be recoated after just one hour and has been formulated to supress light stains. The product is suitable for a

rescue wood from stains caused by surface

variety of interior and exterior surfaces

mould, tannin runs, watermarks, iron, rust and light dirt. Ready to use formulation, low VOC and

including new or previously painted wood,

free from chlorine bleach, its easy application

ply, plasterboard, ceiling tile, plaster,

gives results quickly, saving the labour, mess and

aluminium, exterior wood, vinyl siding,

dust of heavy sanding.

concrete, masonry, brick, and non-ferrous metals. With low VOC content and mildew resistant, the product combines all the qualities desired in a multi-purpose primer.

Available in 3.79 litres.

Mind your fingers! @olfa_ukie

www.olfauk.com

It's dangerous to attempt to cut anything using a dull blade, and doing so can lead to injury. You'll need to apply much more force to make a successful cut, which increases the risk of your hand slipping and hurting yourself.

OLFA's Excel Black ultra-sharp snap blades are the sharpest in the industry, easily cutting through any wallcovering and numerous other materials.

Their Speed Blade, is low-friction coating helps blades glide through challenging materials such as caulk, silicone, textile wallpaper and corrugated protective sheeting, where conventional blades can quickly get stuck.

But even OLFA blades become dull, so do so safely using their Advanced Blade Disposal Holster (DC-5) instead of pliers. There is no circumstance in which you should snap with your fingers! Pull down the front flap, insert your snap knife into the slot, then pull to snap off a segment which is automatically stored safely inside ready for later safe disposal.

Attach the DC-5’s integrated belt clip onto your tool belt, and you're always just a snap away from that

42

sharp, safer edge.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Spray painting royalty www.graco.com/contractorking The new Contractor King™ air-powered protective coatings sprayer from Graco delivers full King power and performance, but lighter and on a more compact footprint. It’s ideal for contractors looking to maximise productivity and portability.

Featuring field-proven anti-icing air motor and QuickChange™ Endurance pump for quick and easy on-the-job pump removal and maintenance. The durable aluminium, steel and composite construction makes it nearly 38 kg lighter than comparable models for easy, one person-handling, with integrated lifting points for easy positioning on any job site. Air-piloted for fast changeover and low pulsation, the Contractor King comes in 45:1, 60:1 and 70:1 pressure ratios, and a variety of packages including the new “Big 45” ready-to-spray package of a 45m Xtreme Duty™ high-pressure fluid hose, fittings and XHD spray tips, and Silver Plus HP™ spray gun which is pressure rated up to 500 bar and is designed to handle today’s protective coatings, including high-solid coatings.

UP

tool

Keep up to date with what’s available for the modern decorator

Greener in every way @repaircareuk

www.repair-care.co.uk

Repair Care are constantly striving for sustainability in day-to-day business practices to make more environmentally friendly choices whenever possible.

The EASY-Q™ High Performance Dispensing Gun will now be available at retailers with minimal packaging. EASY-Q™ is specially designed to dose Repair Care epoxy products, with a torsion resistant design, ensuring that the dosing of both components is always even. Removing all plastic from the packaging of the EASY-Q™ Gun, also allows them to ship an increased volume of products, further reducing their CO² emissions.

43

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES When it comes to tackling exterior projects, Dulux want to make your life as easy as it can be. So, they’ve created a handy guide, covering three key areas... Colour confidence, product innovation and getting the job done. It’s something you and your clients can use anytime and anywhere to make confident choices together...

A DECORATOR’S GUIDE TO EXTERIOR PROJECTS COLOUR CONFIDENCE There are 1,000s of colours in the Dulux Trade Weathershield range, and their latest trim product now offers 9,000 colours (that’s 3,000 more than before!), including tintable undercoats for improved opacity.

This means you’re never short of shades to suggest to your client, whether they’re leaning towards a traditional palette or something trendier.

Reds and terracottas are instinctively warm and inviting, especially on north-facing properties. Calming blues and lavenders complement a building’s natural surroundings but can still stand out. Whereas familiar greens and emeralds add character and depth to any exterior.

PRODUCT INNOVATION It goes without saying that you and your client want hardworking products that offer protection and a

Once you and your client are confident with the colours and products you’ve chosen, it’s time to get the job done. Here’s a refresher of how to achieve that perfect finish...

GETTING THE JOB DONE

great looking finish. That’s where Dulux Trade Weathershield paints come in.

IMPROVED QUICK DRY EXTERIOR HIGH GLOSS The water-based formulation achieves a

STEP 1:

STEP 2:

STEP 3:

high-gloss finish and is as

WASH THE WALLS

REPAIR & PRIME

START PAINTING

durable as their solvent-

• Remove dirt and any

• Repair any cracks

• Ensure you have safe

based version, with oil-like consistency for improved flow, eight-year all-weather protection, with excellent adhesion and fungicide to inhibit algae growth.

loose and flaky paint

and holes with an

• Treat areas of algae with a fungicidal wash

access to all surfaces

exterior filler

• Apply two coats of paint

• Use a priming coat on

• Rinse with clean water

porous or shiny surfaces

to provide protection and depth of colour

PAINTING DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES Primer type

Previously painted walls

7

Thinned ‘Mist’ coat

IMPROVED SMOOTH MASONRY

7

3

This high-quality, water-based exterior paint offers

Standard brick, Cement render.

Fibre cement board or Pebble dash (No stone visible)

7

3

3

Sound masonry with powdery, chalky or sandy surface

Primer DTWSP 7

3

Common or fletton brick

Primer DTARP

7

3

Silicone Render (not suitable Primer DTARP to be painted for at least 5 years)

7

3

all-weather protection for masonry, render, concrete, pebble dash and brickwork.

With 15 years protection it’s shower-resistant within 30 minutes, can be applied by brush, roller or spray, and features anti-fade technology for long-lasting colour,

Construction material

Two full coats

DTWSP = Dulux Trade Weathershield Stabilising Primer DTARP = Dulux Trade Alkali Resisting Primer Please note, this is a guide to what might be required for first-time decoration.

excellent opacity, plus fungicide to inhibit algae growth and BBA-approved.

44

You can find lots of helpful guides online at https://literature.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

New Kangoo in electric too @RenaultUK

@renaultuk

www.renault.co.uk

The All New Renault Kangoo van is available to pre-order, with prices starting from just £17,650 plus VAT. The bold, contemporary exterior design, a brand-new interior, and the latest in driver assistance technologies including Advanced Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, will ensure the New Kangoo continues the award-winning success of its predecessor by claiming the titles of International Van of the Year 2022 and What Van? Awards Compact Van of the Year 2022.

With the availability of a pure electric drivetrain and a comprehensive specification designed to optimise usability and convenience for businesses, the All New Kangoo delivers the same innovations, equipment and comfort for which the popular van has become synonymous.

Available with three front seats, a central folding backrest that turns into a handy work surface, almost 60 litres of storage in the cab, the latest generation ADAS including Advanced Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Offering a load volume of up to 4.2m3, up to 615kg of payload, and 1,500kg of towing capacity, the Kangoo E-Tech electric delivers up to 186 miles of driving range thanks to its generous 45 kWh battery, located under the load floor where it has no impact on the cargo area. It can be recharged by a typical 7.4 kW Wallbox in under seven hours, while rapid DC charging at up to 75 kW can deliver an 80% charge in around 43 minutes. while a generous warranty covers the battery’s performance for 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Also for the first time, the Renault Kangoo is available with the efficient TCe 100 petrol engine, alongside the frugal and proven dCi 95 and dCi 115 diesel engines. In another first, the latter is offered exclusively with the smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic EDC transmission.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

/festoolGB

@festool_uk

www.festool.co.uk

Tactical extraction

Festool’s 18-volt range now includes new cordless extractors for a healthy and dust-free working environment.

The cordless extractors, in the Systainer format for dust classes L and M, will bring even more portability and freedom to the 18-volt system – and less dust!

The new cordless Systainer extractors offer maximum mobility and freedom with minimal weight making them perfect for transporting and carrying.

The CTC SYS cordless extractors can be partners for all service work and small tasks, as well as connected with Systainers occasional spontaneous use as there’s no need to search for a and integrated into bott vehicle equipment.

“This makes our new cordless Systainer extractors the ideal

plug socket,” says Andreas Buck, at Festool.

Everything fits inside the system: Extractor, smooth suction hose, cordless tool, and T-LOC Systainer connection. The innovative Bluetooth autostart function, or the convenient remote control on the suction hose, ensure perfect interaction between the cordless tool and the extractor.

The compact cordless extractors offer impressive suction power using a 36-volt turbine (by utilising two 18-volt battery packs) means they offer a comparable level of power to mains-operated extractors.

The suction power itself can easily be adjusted over three

charger, non-stop operation is now also possible in most cordless applications.

Festool will be offering a variety of energy sets, conveniently packed in a Systainer, that make the perfect addition to the cordless extractors, all of which are compatible with the rest of the 18-volt range.

The new cordless extractors in the Systainer format can be paired and combined with the entire system from Festool, not only with the cordless tools but also with the entire Systainer range and bott vehicle equipment.

The integrated Bluetooth technology enables the extractors to interact

levels. So selecting an

efficiently with the cordless tools. Even more convenience comes from the

appropriate level for the

rapid autostart function via battery pack, or remote control handily

application can in turn

positioned on the suction hose itself – ideal for interim cleaning tasks.

increase the total battery Extraction without any plug sockets – using 2 x 18-volt battery packs.

46

runtime, and with four battery packs and the new TCL 6 DUO dual rapid

If that weren’t enough, the smooth suction hose glides over every edge and is agile, ultra-robust and offers extremely flexible handling. In short, the system offers all-round perfection all fully covered by Festool SERVICE, giving you peace of mind for your day-to-day work.

Festool's 18-volt range continues to expand, and now includes new cordless extractors for a healthy and dust-free working environment.

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Together, we roll.