PSBJ August 2019

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August 2019

BUILDING MINDFULLY How developers can help support the needs of local communities

The user experience

Safe and sound

Protect the vulnerable

Why housing landlords need to up their game for tenant satisfaction

The importance of specifying age-appropriate washrooms in schools

The key fixtures to consider when ensuring the safety of patients

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Welcome Note Editor

Hannah Woodger hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

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Experience Invest offers insight into how developers can help support the needs of local communities. See page 20.

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Welcome to the August issue of PSBJ...

In inner city environments when space constraints and deadlines impose pressures on the project team, it’s important to be able to incorporate building techniques that work for all.

Thanks to advances in bathroom pod technology, we are now seeing a significant rise in these offsite solutions applied to high rise residential buildings.

Delivered to site pre-assembled, these carcasses accelerate and improve the quality of construction, enable greater design flexibility and can optimise efficiency.

In this month’s edition, we look into how offsite manufacturing is increasingly becoming a construction method of choice for residential projects, enabling teams to work to a reduced programme. Richard Tonkinson, Executive Director of Offsite Solutions, the UK’s longest established manufacturer of bathroom pods, provides some insight into the growing demand for factory-built bathrooms and the latest trends.

PSBJ is a proud supporter of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor's hands.

In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Cross Platform Media Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher.

The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Elsewhere, I am delighted to share with you yet another jam-packed issue of inspiring case studies, advisory articles and thought-leadership comment. In this month’s edition, we focus on Washrooms, Security, Damp-Proofing, Anti-Ligature Solutions and Inclusive Design.

You will also find a dedicated focus on each of the four key areas of the public sector build market – Healthcare, Leisure, Housing and Education.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information on PSBJ’s user-friendly and engaging website. Fully responsive, the website allows you to read all the latest stories on-the-go either on your phone or tablet. Simply search www.psbj.co.uk.

Hannah

Hannah Woodger | Editor | hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Follow us on Twitter:

@psbjmagazine

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Contents

06 News A round up of the latest industry news, including charity events, awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.

08 Upfront Offsite Solutions provides some insight into the growing demand for factory-built bathrooms and the latest trends.

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12 Housing

20 Talking Point

26 Washrooms

Nigel Ebdon at Secure Meters UK discusses the Homes Act, what it will mean for tenants and landlords, and how new technologies can improve home environments.

Jerald Solis, Director of Experience Invest, offers his expert insight into how developers can make new-build properties attractive to buyers and also support the needs of local communities.

Trevor Bowers, Director at Washroom Washroom, explains how to create agespecific washroom facilities which will also withstand the rigours of a high traffic school environment.

Saunders Boston Architects was tasked with a unique brief for The Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre in Essex, which featured an ice rink situated directly above its swimming pool due to space restrictions.

22 Education

28 Security

Codelocks explains how well-designed schools with practical and well-appointed facilities encourage students to engage more in physical activities.

The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) issues security guidance to schools to ensure their premises are protected over the holiday period.

18 Healthcare

24 Legal & Business

30 Technical Focus

Karen Trigg, Business Development Manager at Allegion UK, discusses the importance of addressing fire safety in buildings that house elderly residents.

Nigel Thomson, Housing Consultant at Civica, discusses how the user experience is critical to help housing providers transform future services.

Domus Ventilation looks at the minimum continuous extraction requirement for new domestic properties under Building Regulations Approved Document F.

16 Leisure

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4

Contents

18

08

12

32 Damp-Proofing

36 Inclusive Design

Gas protection and waterproofing systems from Visqueen have been specified for Fresh Wharf, a riverside development of 900 homes.

Noakes Meadow comprises two affordable homes suitable for wheelchair users – the scheme has been celebrated at the recent LABC South East Building Excellence Awards.

34 Anti-Ligature Solutions Jamie Johnson, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect, looks at some key fixtures to consider when ensuring the safety and security of vulnerable building occupants.

40 Product Showcase A dedicated focus of industry news, products and case studies to help specifiers and local authorities make informed decisions.

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SETTING THE STANDARD FOR SCAFFOLDING The NASC is the national trade body for access and scaffolding in the UK and has been setting the industry benchmark for nearly 80 years. Our full contracting members are among the best in the business, accounting for the vast majority of the UK’s scaffolding spend – with a total annual turnover in excess of £2 billion – and are independently audited every year.

For demonstrably safe, skilled and compliant contractors it has to be NASC. www.nasc.org.uk

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News

INDUSTRY UPDATES

Each month PSBJ rounds up the latest public sector construction updates, from new contracts to industry awards.

Haverhill Leisure Centre transformation punches above its weight Abbeycroft Leisure, working in Partnership with Alliance Leisure, has achieved an incredible leisure centre makeover in Suffolk. The seven-month transformation project has seen a tired and under-used facility reworked into a modern activity hub, all within the existing footprint, all within a budget of £1.5m, provided by West Suffolk Council. Forming part of West Suffolk Council’s Indoor Sports Facility Strategy, 2015-2031, the investment has been provided to create a resilient, healthy and active community whilst also providing opportunities for economic growth. The project was managed by Alliance Leisure and procured through the UK Leisure Framework. The development works have also incorporated the Self Centre Health and Wellbeing facility. This area is served by its own, dedicated waiting space and houses three studios, used mainly for holistic classes such as Pilates and Yoga, plus five therapy rooms. The facility’s main occupier is Allied Health Professionals (Suffolk) who is the NHS commissioned provider of MSK physiotherapy services. In addition to enhancing the community wellness offer, this provides a rental opportunity for Abbeycroft Leisure, creating a consistent, new, revenue stream.

Balfour Beatty awarded contract to deliver two community hospitals Balfour Beatty has been awarded a £37m contract to deliver two community hospital facilities in Scotland on behalf of hub North Scotland; Badenoch & Strathspey Community Hospital and Health Care Centre in Aviemore

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and the Skye, Lochalsh and South West Ross Community Hospital at Broadford on Skye. The contract will see Balfour Beatty construct two new 24-bed facilities which, on completion, will provide in-patient and X-ray services for the community in Skye and an urgent care facility, GP practice, in-patient and Scottish Ambulance Service facility in Aviemore. Balfour Beatty was appointed as main contractor for the delivery of these works following close collaboration with hub North Scotland throughout the 18-month preconstruction phase ensuring the provision of the most cost-effective and high-quality design solution. In line with Balfour Beatty’s commitment to reducing onsite activity by 25% by 2025, the facilities’ energy centres, which will provide heating, electricity and water, will be constructed offsite to improve safety while enhancing productivity and efficiency on site. In addition, Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering will apply its ground engineering expertise and specialist geotechnical knowledge to deliver the project’s crucial ground engineering requirements including concrete driven piles.

Avonmouth Fire Station receives planning approval Bristol City Council has approved plans for the new Avonmouth Fire Station, replacing the previous fire station with a modern and responsive building that will advance Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s (AF&RS) ability to serve the local area. The circa £4m newbuild fire station for AF&RS, designed by AHR, is focused on delivering an optimised working environment for the staff within, with improvements that will both progress operational efficiency and prevention work, as well as ensure staff have access to dedicated spaces that enhance their day-to-day working life. The new fire station includes five Appliance Bays of increased size and height, allowing for use of the most up-to-date appliances, with greater

room for maintenance, access and serving also being made available. A two-storey accommodation wing has been designed to improve response time to ‘call outs’, as well as include amenities and working areas that are better suited to staff. Further facilities benefiting firefighters include a new kitchen and dining area, modernised change facilities and showers, as well as individual quiet rooms which provide valuable space for staff to relax and take a break in.

Restoration project takes major step forward South Tyneside Council has appointed a contractor to deliver a multi-million pound restoration project. Esh Construction has been awarded the contract for the £3.2m restoration of the historic North Marine Park on South Shields’ seafront, following a competitive tender process. Work will start later this summer to return the park to its original Victorian splendour as well as introducing new features, with support from a £2.4m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF). Preliminary works began earlier this year and Esh is expected to begin construction in August, undertaking the work in phases so that the park remains open for visitors. The work, which is expected to take around 12 months, will involve creating better links with Littlehaven Promenade and improving the area around the Lawe Top, which as the park’s highest point, acts as an incredible viewing platform for the coastline, harbour and mouth of the river. The project will also involve creating a new themed play area, which will reflect the Borough’s maritime links and Roman heritage, and restoring the park’s original features such as the grotto and the grand promenade staircase.

Improvements to the park’s open areas, lighting, seating, footpaths and bowling area are also planned.

Bradford city centre scheme given the go-ahead Plans for a £21m major regeneration scheme in Bradford city centre by architect firm Greig & Stephenson have been approved by Bradford Council. The 5670m2 scheme involves the demolition of buildings including the former Marks & Spencer and Woolworths in Darley Street, part of the historic town centre, which will be replaced by a new multi-level food focussed market building and linked to a “city square”. The proposed market building includes a floor with a variety of street food vendors and additional areas for musical events and bars to cater for the late-night economy. The project will also have two ground floors as it is on a sloping site together with an adjacent public square. The market hall will have natural ventilation, with photovoltaic panels and grey water storage for toilet flushing and other uses. The intention is to lower the potential costs passed on to traders, enabling the building to be more environmentally, economically and socially sustainable. The scheme is a major regeneration programme for Bradford city centre involving the reconfiguration of its city centre markets and on its completion the Oastler Market will be demolished to make way for a new housing/mixed use development.

Architype launches a new environmental consultancy service Following the recent accolade for Architype as the Sustainable Practice of the Year in June’s unveiling of the AJ100 awards, the firm has demonstrated its relentless push to improve environmental standards and building performance in the launch of a new consultancy service; PERFORM+.

The creation of the service has been born from the increasing demand experienced

by Architype from owners and users of buildings that are not performing as they should. Due to the sheer volume of work picked-up by the practice outside of the usual scope of architects’ services, it was felt that a new platform that gave recognition and impetus to this direction of work, as well as a growing skill-set within the practice was imperative. The core purpose of PERFORM+ as an environmental consultancy service is to help clients to

Topping out ceremony marks latest milestone for Nottingham City Hub International property and construction consultancy Gleeds has marked the end of the first phase of works for Nottingham College’s £58m City Hub scheme, on which it is appointed as cost manager and project monitor as well as providing additional support to the project management team, with an exclusive topping out ceremony.

This landmark addition to Nottingham’s skyline has been designed by Bond Bryan Architects and will be home to up to 2000 students every year. The ceremony celebrated the completion of the building’s structural frame, with works now moving on at a pace to ensure it is fully operational

by September 2020. The Hub aims to provide high-quality college and community facilities, as well as a Grade A business centre to encourage the formation of new start-ups and better collaboration between students and employers. It will feature a new performing arts space, student retail outlet, cafe and training restaurant and bar, as well as delivering improved education and skills resources to the wider community.

Occupying an area of disused brownfield land next to the Broadmarsh Centre on Canal Street, the site is being completely transformed in a bid to provide a more fitting entrance to the southern part of Nottingham city centre. It is expected to be the first major project under the city’s £250m Southern Gateway regeneration programme to reach completion.

Turley warns of truncated northern housing supply Planning and development consultancy Turley is warning Government that local authorities in northern England are paring back housing delivery because of its National Planning Policy Framework. The framework sets out Government planning policy for England. However, the consultancy says its introduction of a new standardised method

for calculating ‘minimum’ housing need is inadvertently encouraging a ‘do minimum’ approach across councils. This could have a significant economic impact across the region. Turley cites Leeds, where 32 Green Belt sites have been removed from the city’s development plan, as an example of reduced ambition on new development. Greater Manchester is another example where the planned delivery for housing has reduced in the most recent draft of its joint plan since the revised framework was published. A reduced supply of housing will be detrimental to the economic prosperity of key hubs like Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds according to the consultant. It is calling on Government to accelerate its commitment to a further revision to this aspect of the framework and has advised councils to continue to view housing as a national priority.

News

get the best operational results from their buildings. Architype works at design stage and with existing buildings to ensure that long-term performance tackles current issues for users and enhances the future potential of built assets. The service boasts a menu of 20 unique services that tackle five key issues of sustainable design.

These are; Making-Buildings-Work; Energy Performance; Healthy Buildings; Cutting Carbon and Aftercare.

First 11 ZED Pod modular houses to be built in Bristol ZED Pods, the manufacturer of rapid build, affordable modular homes, has received planning permission from Bristol City Council for 11 houses to be built above the Chalks Road car park, next to St George Park. The scheme, including nine one-bedroom pods and two two-bedroom pods, will be the first development to be built as part of the five-year Bristol Housing Festival. Some of the pods could be on site in time for the next Bristol housing Festival exhibition in midOctober. The pods will be road-tested, in a real-world scenario, to accelerate the delivery of quality, affordable housing in Bristol. This decision pioneers a way to create a 100% affordable, low carbon housing development over an existing land use, a car park in this case. This environmental and socially-focused development will deliver much needed affordable housing in the area for young people and others at risk of housing crisis.

By creating a mixture of affordable tenures, with four units to be let at social rent level, a new community model will be created to ensure that the support networks are in place for the tenants. This project is a collaboration between Bristol Housing Festival, ZED Pods, a Bristol-based Housing Association, the YMCA Bristol, Bristol and Bath Regional Capital and Bristol City Council. National planning and development consultancy Turley provided planning and strategic communications services for the scheme.

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Upfront

INSIGHTS INTO THE INCREASING DEMAND FOR BATHROOM PODS

In this article, Richard Tonkinson, Executive Director of Offsite Solutions, the UK’s longest established manufacturer of bathroom pods, provides some insight into the growing demand for factory-built bathrooms and the latest trends.

T hepodsuseinofthebathroom residential sector has increased hugely in recent years. Prior to that, bathroom pods were most commonly used in student accommodation and hotel projects. A significant change is the adoption of pods across all market sectors and price points. Volumes in higher specification residential applications are also increasing.

The majority of bathroom pods currently manufactured are for private residential schemes – apartments for rent or market sale – hotels and student accommodation. The use of pod technology in these residential sub-sectors has been enormous.

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Latest trends The benefits of using pods in high-rise buildings are well documented but their application for detached, lowrise housing is currently less prominent. However, we are now seeing a significant rise in future demand in mediumdensity, medium-rise housing.

A recent trend is the large shopping centre groups reallocating surplus land to residential and particularly to build-to-rent. These schemes are often three to four-storey buildings where offsite construction is being designed in from the outset to accelerate delivery, reduce programme times and improve the quality of construction.

We are also receiving more enquiries and interest from developers of senior living schemes and have engineered a solution that allows pods to be installed into timber-framed structures.

What is a bathroom pod?

In simple terms, a pod is only a pod for the purpose of manufacturing and transportation to site. Once it is installed, it is just a bathroom and is little different from an in-situ built bathroom, aside from an improved quality of fit and finish.

The principal function of the pod carcase is to allow offsite fitting out and delivery to site.

Offsite Solutions was awarded a £1.6m contract for Crown Student Living

The carcase is typically either steel-framed or GRP composite, depending on the end use and budget: Steel-framed pods allow traditional tiled interior finishes and a higher level of design flexibility. Applications include large-scale apartment schemes and hotels.

GRP pods have lower capital expenditure and are robust and easy to maintain and clean.

These pods are widely used for student accommodation, social housing and hospitals.

New innovations in pod technology include: Hybrid concrete/steel pods for high specification wet rooms and luxury bathrooms Demountable GRP pods for projects with restricted access Hybrid GRP pods which offer an enhanced finish with options such as recesses and tiled feature walls Floorless pods for projects where a continuous level floor  finish is required.

Upfront The waterside scheme, Crown Place, will have an extensive range of communal facilities

Crown Place in Swansea was Offsite Solutions’ sixth and largest student accommodation scheme for the developer

The Swansea project awarded to Offsite Solutions follows its earlier student schemes for Crown Student Living

Offsite Solutions manufactured 645 GRP composite bathroom pods working with main contractor Midas

A pod is only a pod for the purpose of manufacturing and transportation to site

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Upfront Fully completed bathrooms can be supplied and delivered to a carefully planned programme for installation in just a few hours

Key drivers for the use of bathroom pods Pods offer significant benefits for projects on constrained urban sites where the space for material storage is a particular challenge. Fully completed bathrooms can be supplied and delivered to a carefully planned programme for installation in just a few hours – removing the need for additional storage on site and reducing the number of vehicle movements.

One of the key drivers for bathroom pod procurement is to reduce programme. By moving bathroom construction into a controlled factory environment, the programme saving on a large residential project can be as much as 20 weeks. This means a faster return on investment for the developer or earlier occupation for the client – and much greater certainty of completion on time and to budget.

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Site-based bathroom construction typically requires around seven different trades and 10-15 operations plus the required drying times. With offsite manufacture, this is reduced to a single pod supplier, which means less risk of delays and simplified procurement.

Bathroom pods also reduce the requirement on site for skilled subcontracted labour, supervision and the associated health and safety obligations.

The production line environment of pod manufacture offers consistently higher quality, and improved productivity. The repetitive nature of bathroom pod production means that the units can be completed to higher quality standards than on site.

Pre-delivery testing in the factory should be rigorous and quality assurance procedures stringent for ready-to-use installation, mitigating defects and remedial works.

How to procure bathroom pods The most critical consideration for bathroom pod procurement is to engage early. Pods should be designed into the first stages of a construction project and installation must be allowed for in the build-up of walls and floors to reduce the likelihood of access issues.

To optimise efficiency, specifiers should rationalise the number of design types in size and shape, and variations, such as left and right-hand versions, as far as possible. This is key to achieving the economies of scale required for efficient offsite manufacture.

When procuring bathroom pods, we would always advise checking: Guarantees and accreditations – The manufacturer’s guarantees should be 12 years for steelframed construction and 50 years for GRP composite pods, with back-to-back guarantees for sanitaryware and fittings.

Customer service commitments – In-house design resources, a dedicated site manager who will visit site at regular intervals; and after sales support to advise on any installation issues.

Quality control – A robust pre-delivery testing regime should be in place – look at the procedures closely.

All pods should be supplied with a unique ID number, so they are fully traceable throughout their life for enhanced quality control.

Visit the factory – Look closely at the manufacturer’s financial stability, figures for repeat business, and project management expertise. Talk to past customers as part of the procurement process.

Pod construction – Examine the pod construction details to ensure longevity. For example, the entire walls and floor to the wet area of a steel-framed pod should be fully tanked – not just

Upfront The production line environment of pod manufacture offers consistently higher quality

half of the shower wall. GRP pods should have robust wall detailing with encapsulated honeycomb polypropylene. Be aware that cheaper alternatives such as cardboard and timber can be susceptible to delamination.

Some projections for the future We expect the demand for private rented housing will drive more development in this area and it will continue to be a strong market for bathroom pods.

The adoption of bathroom pods by the major housebuilders will require a change of mindset – and to facilitate that, workshops can be hosted to work through how bathroom pods can be used for different building types and projects to maximise the benefits, whilst still offering a degree of customer choice.

Developers often give homebuyers the opportunity to specify a wide range of finishes for their new homes.

However, in order to suit offsite manufacture, the choice for the

bathrooms has to be rationalised and the number of footprints limited. It is still possible to offer a choice of finishes, such as colour palettes, provided the bathroom footprints are consistent, specification decisions fit with the production scheduling, and there is sufficient volume for production runs of at least 100 bathrooms.

Quite often when members of a project team have worked with bathroom pods, they are very keen to take those learnings and skillsets to their next project to improve efficiency. We have seen this knowledge transfer work very well, for example, from student accommodation projects to build-to-rent schemes.

Student accommodation Offsite Solutions was awarded a £1.6m contract for Crown Student Living. Crown Place in Swansea was Offsite Solutions’ sixth and largest student accommodation scheme for the developer and brings the total value of its projects for Crown Student Living to £6.8m.

The waterside scheme will have an extensive range of communal facilities including an on-site gym, cinema, hotelstyle lounges and 1000ft2 of commercial space.

The Swansea project awarded to Offsite Solutions follows its earlier student schemes for Crown Student Living in the university cities of Bristol, Reading, Cardiff, Portsmouth and most recently Norwich, which is nearing completion.

The bathroom pod solution Offsite Solutions manufactured 645 GRP composite bathroom pods working with Midas who are main contractor for the £40m scheme on Swansea’s waterfront. All the bedrooms in the nine-storey development are ensuite and furnished to a high standard.

Designed by ECE Westworks, Crown Place has shower rooms with a tile-effect wall finish, a large mirror, wall cabinet, contemporary dark bamboo-style flooring, and specially-designed access for ease of maintenance.

The ensuite shower pods were designed by Offsite Solutions in collaboration with Crown Student Living.

Alan Pulver, Director of Crown Student Living, said: “Our aim is to create an exceptional student experience which is reflected in our approach to bathroom construction. The quality of the ensuite shower rooms is definitely a significant factor in students’ choice of accommodation – which can be their home for up to three years. We have specified Offsite Solutions’ bathroom pods from our very first development – a refurbishment and conversion project in Bristol – and for every scheme after that.”

“This use of offsite construction allows us to have every ensuite built to the same exacting quality standards. It also gives us the benefit of a much shorter programme than in-situ bathroom construction. There is no assembly on site, only M&E connections which are extremely efficient and fast. We would never consider traditional bathroom construction for any of our schemes.” 

 www.offsitesolutions.com

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Housing

HOW PROPERTY SENSORS CAN ASSIST SOCIAL LANDLORDS Here, Nigel Ebdon, Market Development Manager at property tech specialist Secure Meters UK, discusses the Homes Act, what it will mean for tenants and landlords, and how new technologies can improve home environments and help to protect social landlords against the risk of increased disrepair claims.

Homes (Fitness for T heHuman Habitation) Act is new, beefed up legislation designed to ensure that private and social rented accommodation is up to defined standards.

The act gives tenants more power against landlords who do not fulfil their legal obligations to keep properties safe from hazards such as cold and poor air quality.

The act is an amendment of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. It states there is an implied agreement between the tenant and landlord at the beginning of the tenancy that the property will be maintained to a certain standard meaning that it is fit for human habitation.

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The act gives tenants the ability to hold their landlord to account without having to rely on often over stretched, under resourced local authorities.

In the past, local authorities would have to intervene on behalf of tenants to enforce property standards, or bring private prosecution in magistrate courts which was often prohibitively costly and complex.

What tenancies does it apply to?

The Homes Act applies to all new tenancies, private and social, which started on or after the 20th of March 2019.

It also applies to tenancies that began as a fixed term

Home sensors can monitor various aspects of the home environment

What landlords need is a remote way of monitoring and recording that all homes are up to the new specified standard

before the 20th of March 2019 but become a periodic tenancy after the commencement date, so technically the act will apply to nearly all tenancies in existence from 20 March 2020.

What does it mean?

For a property to be fit for human habitation, landlords need to ensure that it is free of hazards that make the home not reasonably suitable for occupation. The act uses the 29 hazards currently listed in the Housing Health and Safety Rating system (HHSRS), and these are categorised by seriousness.

Category areas that could be of particular concern to social landlords are:

Is there a serious problem with damp, and is this causing mould in the property?

Is there adequate natural light in the home?

Is there adequate ventilation?

Is there a problem with the supply of hot and cold water?

Is the property too hot or too cold?

What does this mean for social landlords?

With responsibility for thousands of properties, the new legislation creates specific challenges for social landlords.

These will include ensuring that their homes meet the specified standards, quickly identifying those that aren’t – and  importantly understanding

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Housing

why and who was responsible for any persistent failings.

Law and claims firms are already aggressively targeting social homes and tenants to gather potential claims, and landlords fear that a significant number of disrepair claims could start flooding in within a year.

This could prove extremely costly for housing providers, because even if they aren’t found in breach of standards, the cost of processing and fighting claims will be an added financial burden.

Damp and mould claims can be particularly troublesome to decipher, as without realtime evidence it’s difficult to understand the source of high humidity.

What landlords need is a remote way of monitoring and recording that all homes are up to the new specified standard.

Granular, usable data on home environments.

Home sensors – usable data Remote home sensors and internet of things solutions are now delivering just that capability to landlords – along with a host of other benefits.

Home sensors can monitor various aspects of the home environment, including damp, air quality, temperature and humidity in real-time.

By identifying issues early, landlords can ensure that homes remain at the required standard as specified by the Homes Act

This data can then be automatically processed or organised in a usable or ‘granular’ way – highlighting specific issues and courses of action before they become a health risk for tenants or damage the fabric of the property.

By identifying issues early, landlords can ensure that homes remain at the required

standard as specified by the Homes Act, providing a more comfortable home environment for tenants.

Where there are persistent problems, such as high humidity and mould growth, sensors can be used to decipher the cause enabling landlords to work with tenants on finding an ongoing solution, but in the face of

Remote testing can provide a significant cost saving, improves customer service and assists in improving business efficiency

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litigation, this data can also be used as evidence to support a landlord’s case.

Common issues such as boiler faults can also be assessed remotely and more accurately.

Landlords can test heating systems and set minimum and maximum temperatures all without having to visit a tenant’s home. If a home is over or under heated then data can be used to understand the reasons why, so that an appropriate intervention can be made.

Gaining access to properties can be a costly and frustrating issue for repairs and maintenance teams, therefore remote testing can provide a significant cost saving, improves customer service and assists in improving business efficiency.

To summarise, although landlords can use the data derived from home sensors to prove the delivery of the required, new home standards (and ultimately protect themselves from litigation), in my mind both sensors and the Homes Act are aiming for the same fundamental outcome: protecting tenants by ensuring that that rented homes remain at a consistently high standard. 

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Leisure

The facility features an impressive eight-lane regional short course swimming pool and learner pool

Project: The Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre Location: Romford Architect: Saunders Boston Architect

Boston S aunders Architects, the

A LEARNING CURVE The Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre in Romford, Essex, closed its doors to the public in 2013. Five years later, in spring 2018, the centre reopened as a striking development, built in honour of the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee.

The centre not only provides state-of-the-art facilities to the public, it has also provided a space for the community to come together

This is one of a few centres in the UK that has an ice rink situated directly above a swimming pool

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Cambridge-based architecture practice that designed the £30m redevelopment, was tasked with a unique brief for the build that required innovative approaches to light and space design; overcoming a limited build site to provide one of only a few centres in the UK that has an ice rink situated directly above a swimming pool, as opposed to sitting side by side at ground level.

The unique design and construction of the redevelopment required close collaboration between Saunders Boston Architects and a range of building specialists, from the early planning phases to the final touches.

Through the combined expertise, research and knowledge of specialist condensation consultants, structural engineers, mechanical and electrical designers, manufacturers, and the main contractor, Willmott Dixon, Saunders Boston Architects was able to overcome a number of technological uncertainties presented by the unique brief.

The resulting facility features an impressive eight-lane regional short course swimming pool, learner pool, 100 station fitness suite, multi-purpose studios, sauna and steam room, and full size ice hockey rink.

Aside from the obvious structural issue of accommodating the weight of an ice rink on an upper level, the architects had to achieve a robust and stable structure without the support of internal columns, due to the swimming pool below, which required extensive steelwork protection.

Further problems were presented by the complex issue of temperature control between the two facilities; as the swimming pool area is heated at 30ºC with a relative humidity of 80%, and the ice rink above must maintain a temperature of -5ºC. To overcome this, detailed

Leisure The Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre has injected immediate vibrancy and positivity into its urban location

workshops were held between the architects and specialists in order to decide the allowable deflections of the ice rink floor and the temperature and vapour control between the ice rink and swimming pool below.

Lighting within the centre also presented a unique technical challenge during the redevelopment; while all leisure centre designs must consider lighting, it requires additional specialist expertise when involving water.

In order to ensure that the right atmosphere at the swimming pool was created, while understanding safety considerations such as excess glare on the water’s surface, Saunders Boston Architects worked closely with Everlite Concept and cladding expert SD Samuels to provide the leisure centre with Danpalon facade and rain screen solution; the first project in the UK to use the panels in this way. The striking architectural design clads an economic building envelope with translucent polycarbonate panels, allowing natural light into the building during the day whilst projecting artificial lighting back through the envelope at night.

The versatility of the Danpalon meant that the architecture practice could define a unique panel pattern that would avoid any obvious repetition or clash of adjacent dark or light blue colours; appearing to look completely random and organic – or naturally occurring as a result.

Situated between traditional red brick buildings and opposite a multi-storey car park, the Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre has injected immediate vibrancy and positivity into its urban location; the development signals a bold intent for the local council’s ongoing city centre regeneration and cultural renewal programme, and is in line with the council’s long-term commitment to providing state-of-the-art leisure facilities for the local community.

Overcoming the site’s limited space was essential to delivering the council’s commitment; without the careful attention to detail in the design process and the unusual layout, the range of facilities on offer to the public would have been compromised.

The centre not only provides

state-of-the-art facilities to the public, it has also provided a space for the community to come together in support of their local ice hockey team, The Raiders. On top of this, the leisure centre is also expected to have major impact on the local economy by helping to attract new inward investment to the Romford city centre.

Saunders Boston Architects has developed a strong reputation for expert design of public sport and leisure schemes over the recent years. Leisure and sport is one of its key areas of expertise, alongside education, higher education and science, residential, retirement living and care. It was due to the practice’s knowledge of the sector that it was appointed by the local authority, through Willmott Dixon, as lead consultant.

The collaboration between Saunders Boston Architects, design partners, London Borough of Havering, Willmott Dixon, contractors and funding partner, Sport England, was essential to the successful creation of Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre.

Mark Butler, London Borough of Havering, commented on Saunders Boston Architects’ involvement in the project: “When Saunders Boston Architects joined the team, they brought with them a fresh approach, working collaboratively with the design partners including the local authority, contractor and sub-contractors and our key funding partner Sport England." 

 www.saundersboston.co.uk

Saunders Boston Architects worked closely with Everlite Concept and cladding expert SD Samuels to provide the leisure centre with a Danpalon facade and rain screen solution

17

Healthcare

For those actively looking to ensure their building meets current fire safety regulations, education is key

UK’S CARE-HOMES PRESENT FIRE RISK Karen Trigg, Business Development Manager at Allegion UK, discusses the importance of addressing fire safety in buildings that house elderly residents. topic of fire safety T heis one to be taken very seriously by those involved in both the construction and day-to-day running of residentoccupied care homes.

Across the country we have seen the number of fire safety audits for group residential buildings rise.

Fire safety issues are particularly important for care homes that house vulnerable residents, with early 2019 reports uncovering a number of facilities that are failing to meet the necessary standards.

In order for these facilities

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to address these issues, it’s important for the industry to find the heart of the problem, beginning with an understanding of the risks involved.

Although a general statement, our experience tells us that a number of privatelyowned UK care homes have been converted from older facilities that were originally constructed for a different purpose. When transitioning into a care home, not all buildings have been subject to an upgrade in fire safety procedures and

solutions, with many using existing hardware or opting for the most cost-effective solutions. Building owners can also sometimes neglect to ensure that their building meets today’s fire safety regulations due to a lack of knowledge or understanding.

Care homes at risk The first half of 2019 has been subject to some unfortunate reading surrounding the fire safety of care homes. Following a string of fires in care homes across the capital, the London Fire Brigade recently took action, inspecting 177 care homes in a mass audit, finding more than half were putting residents at risk after failing their inspections. Both public and privately-owned care-home

facilities have come under scrutiny, too, with similar news stemming from towns and cities across the UK. In 2017, the Home Office conducted a report that found numerous trends between fire incidents and the UK’s ageing population, highlighting the safety of an ageing population as an ‘upward pressure’. The report essentially alludes to the fact that group residential buildings are housing older residents at an increased rate, putting pressure on those responsible for accommodating them. With most care-home residents classed as vulnerable, and with all the additional support elements that are needed for these residents, you can see why some building owners are feeling the strain.

Healthcare

Today, the growing number of care-home incidents poses a huge challenge for those responsible for ensuring compliance and reinforces the ‘upward pressure’ that was cited by the Home Office some two years ago.

With age comes responsibility Care-home fire incidents lead to a huge range of problems.

Resident safety, financial and legal consequences, as well as re-housing, are all big issues in themselves, and all are consequences of a significant fire in this type of building. With care-home facilities, resident safety is especially difficult to manage when considering an individual who may be physically compromised or suffering with dementia, for example. Should an incident take place at a care home, facility managers need to have the safety of these occupants front of mind – providing the necessary hardware, solutions and processes that will accommodate a successful and timely evacuation.

With this in mind, as part of a recent study conducted

by Allegion UK, results found that almost half of healthcarebased facility managers (47%) do not strongly trust the fire safety solutions they have in place. What’s more, the findings suggest that as the age of a building increases, facility managers trust their fire safety solutions even less. Most think the age of their building will hinder the opportunity to install up-to-date technology and solutions. However, this isn’t normally the case.

For those actively looking to ensure their building meets current fire safety regulations, education is key and it’s important to recognise that taking a one-size-fits-all approach could turn out to be detrimental in the long run. Tailored solutions offer decision makers the option to upgrade their systems while still integrating new hardware around the core structure of the building, no matter its age.

Increased education across the industry would go a long way to ensuring that installer and contractors, in particular,

Tailored solutions offer decision makers the option to upgrade their systems while still integrating new hardware around the core structure of the building

are aware of the full range of compliant solutions available – cutting down the time it takes to get a suitable product in place.

Assess and take action As we’ve seen with high-rise residential buildings, safety

and security risks can be nullified, starting with a proper education. By working closely with manufacturers who understand the requirements and challenges faced with providing safe and secure buildings, a solution can be

found that allows ease of use and exit in an emergency.

Right now, the pressing issue is ensuring that the UK’s ageing residents are safe and secure in the buildings they reside in. 

 www.allegion.com

Should an incident take place at a care home, facility managers need to have the safety of these occupants front of mind

19

Talking Point

The lack of regard some developers have displayed towards future residents has fuelled some concerns concerning the quality of new-builds

WHAT MAKES FOR AN ATTRACTIVE NEW-BUILD DEVELOPMENT? Jerald Solis, Director of Experience Invest, offers his expert insight into how developers can make new-build properties attractive to buyers and also support the needs of local communities.

A

recent report issued by one of Britain’s biggest mortgage lenders, Santander, found that 70% of young people now believe the dream of home ownership is over for their generation. What this stark figure shows is that years of demand outstripping supply

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have fundamentally altered the housing market to the point that people no longer feel that owning their own home is a realistic proposition.

But what can developers and policy makers do to help turn people’s home ownership aspirations into a reality? In

short, the answer is to build more housing and to that end, the Government has its own target of funding the construction 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s.

However, when you dig a little deeper you quickly realise that while hastily completing new

Jerald Solis is the Business Development and Acquisitions Director at Experience Invest.

housing projects might be well intentioned, it’s far from the panacea it might seem.

This is not to say that building more homes won’t form an important part of any solution to the housing crisis. The problem is that while people are generally

Talking Point

supportive of building new homes in the abstract, they are often unwilling to put up with the short-term disruption this entails or (if they can avoid doing so) live in the properties once they are completed. While this might seem counter-intuitive, it’s worth acknowledging that new builds have had a poor reputation for years and it’s important that people like me, who have some standing in the industry, recognise the role that developers have played in this.

Of course, some of the reasons new builds are unpopular are out of our control – a lack of transport links serving recent housing developments for example – but it’s also true that the unpopularity of new builds stems from the fact that they often fail to meet residents’ expectations on quality and aesthetics.

Consequently, I welcome the findings contained within the Government’s Building Better, Building Beautiful (BBBB) Commission interim report.

The report entitled ‘Creating space for beauty’ is centred around a plea for developers to start thinking beyond their bottom line and start prioritising residents’ considerations. Granted, the commission’s stated aims do come across as ambiguous – they include advocating for beauty in the built environment as well as developing workable ideas to help renew high streets and inform the planning and design of new settlements.

A wide-ranging set of aims for sure, but I believe this is the sort of radical thinking the industry needs to change people’s expectations of newbuild housing.

People are wary of newbuilds for a number of reasons.

According to a poll conducted

by YouGov on behalf of the housing charity Shelter, 51% of homeowners of recent new builds in England said they had experienced major problems including issues with construction, unfinished fittings and faulty electricals.

For too long, the lack of regard some developers have displayed towards

Ultimately, by adopting a collaborative ethos, developers can overcome people’s concerns about new builds

future residents has fuelled some concerns concerning the quality of new-builds developments. Indeed, the housebuilding industry’s own Home Builders Federation survey found that only 25% of house buyers would consider buying a property which had been built in the last 10 years.

The problem is that the reluctance of many to live in new-builds only compounds the housing crisis further. In part, this is because it’s now harder to get community approval for significant new developments but crucially, it has driven demand for older properties to unsustainable levels.

Consequently, I was so delighted to see an influential Government commission lobbying for more, and better, development. As someone who works in the property sector, I believe the whole industry could do with undergoing a cultural shift. The role that developers play in shaping the housing market often goes without comment and by simply raising the level expected of them, the BBBB commission could go a long way to changing people’s perceptions of new build housing.

This is something we’ve always been conscious of here at Experience Invest. We work closely with local community groups and public sector organisations to determine how our new-build developments

can best reflect their needs.

We take pride in the fact that our projects in Luton, Liverpool and Newcastle showcase just how new-builds can be constructed that are modern and reflective of the local communities in which they are based. Ultimately, by adopting a collaborative ethos, developers can overcome people’s concerns about new builds and begin to change the mood around the property market in general.

With Britain’s housing crisis deepening, it’s essential that influential figures from both the public and private sectors continue lobbying for better residential developments. The British public demand more housing than ever and while the

onus is on developers to ensure that what they produce is of the highest quality, it’s important that the market is not simply left to its own devices.

Consequently, the Government’s decision to convene the BBBB Commission is a crucial first step towards improving the quality and availability of housing. I believe that developers can and indeed should be aiming higher. It’s not enough to just build houses in which people can live, the industry has to start building homes of which people can be proud of. This is something we take great pride in supporting at Experience Invest. 

 www.experienceinvest.com

Of course, some of the reasons new builds are unpopular are out of our control – a lack of transport links serving recent housing developments for example

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Education Coded locks offer complete control and convenience

INTRODUCING THE KL10 Designed with simplicity in mind, the KL10 is a sleek, easy-to-install, mechanical lock ideal for nurseries, schools, colleges and universities. Offering seamless access via a fourwheel code combination, the durable lock is the perfect solution for a wide variety of internal applications including lockers, cabinets and cupboards.

Benefits of installing KL10: Saves budget – eliminates time and money spent replacing and looking for lost keys.

Removes the issue of pupils losing keys and causing disruption to learning.

Unique 4-digit code ensures belongings are kept safe from other pupils.

Allows teachers to secure personal property and expensive equipment such as; iPads, mobile phones and any confiscated gadgets.

Caretakers and cleaners can store hazardous items away in cupboards and gain access 24/7.

Private individual function only is ideal for settings where the same code is repetitively used.

Code retrieval function allows codes to be easily changed or reset whilst the code is on the door. Master key provides access to all lockers if codes are forgotten.

Easy to manage, maintain and install.

Affordable for institutions such as the education sector who have restricted budgets.

Allows future security and refurbishment budget to be allocated to learning projects

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TRANSFORMING EDUCATION FACILITIES TO ACTIVATE HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES

Modern technology has certainly transformed education over the years, from tablets to interactive whiteboards, the learning experience has been taken to the next level. With this in mind, it is important that the education sector has affordable access control that offers a safe environment for its pupils and staff, and spaces that provide maximum security for equipment and personal belongings. be involved in the T odesign, build and management of a school, college or university is a privilege and a responsibility. The opportunity to create an effective learning space that has the power to shape students of today into healthy, active adults of tomorrow is rewarding. Whatever the stage of development or refurbishment an education facility is at, some relatively small changes to buildings and amenities can have a significant impact on staff and students.

activities. An active student is likely to become an active adult, and there is plenty of evidence to show the benefits an active

lifestyle has on both physical and mind health – helping to keep mental health problems, disease and obesity at bay.

Learning to be healthy Well-designed schools with practical and well-appointed facilities encourage students to engage more in physical

Regular, frequent access to facilities can easily be arranged for teachers and students

Education

fitted during term time with minimal disruption to lessons.

Maintenance requirements are limited which makes them a cost-effective option for schools with a restricted budget.

And, for any caretaker still unsure whether coded locks are a good investment, with keyless access for doors, lockers, cabinets and cupboards, there is no more wasted hours looking for lost keys or arranging for new keys to be cut.

A* solution

For cleaners who require regular temporary access, a time-sensitive code can be issued for use on a certain day, or at specific times of the day

Conveniently managing sports facilities Using the latest smart, electronic and mechanical locks can help schools manage sports facilities safely. Coded locks can provide appealing, hassle-free access control to swimming pools, sports courts, equipment stores and in changing rooms.

Regular, frequent access to facilities and lockers can easily be arranged for teachers, students and caretakers using codes or cards. For cleaners who require regular temporary access, a time-sensitive code can be issued for use on a certain day, or at specific times of the day.

Outside of school hours, time- or date-sensitive codes are also useful when contractors need access during the summer holidays for routine maintenance. Other advanced features, such as code-free entry, enables open access periods, convenient for break times, after school clubs, and fire drills.

In addition, smart locks have an integrated audit trail facility.

By downloading a history of code or card use it is possible to monitor pupil, visitor and staff movements.

Generating additional income Time-limited codes can enable the use of school premises to generate income, by hiring out

facilities such as swimming pools, sports halls and tennis courts. Using time-sensitive codes, independent clubs and sports teams can be issued with codes that allow temporary access on specific dates, times and for set durations.

Coded locks offer complete control and convenience, allowing players to book courts and access changing facilities and lockers at any time, without having to meet anyone to gain entry. ‘Pay as you play’ solutions are also available to simplify financial transactions for both parties.

powered rather than part of a complicated wired system.

The standalone locks can be

With years of experience supplying the education sector, Codelocks can help people choose the right access control solution for their school, college, university or nursery helping to create a safe and accessible environment. 

 www.codelocks.co.uk

More productive use of time One of the biggest challenges for people in charge of school buildings is the time spent managing and changing access codes on keypad locks.

While changing the code on some mechanical locks can be laborious as you have to remove the lock from the door, electronic locks eliminate this problem by enabling on the door code changes. Smart locks take the level of convenience a step further, with management and operation via smartphones.

Refurbing or upgrading your school’s locks does not have to be done over the holidays along with the majority of other building maintenance, although this is certainly possible. Electronic and smart locks are individually battery-

Coded locks can provide appealing, hassle-free access control to swimming pools, sports courts, equipment stores and in changing rooms

23

Legal & Business

The user experience will remain key to unlocking the potential of any future digital platforms

BETTER BY DESIGN Nigel Thomson, Housing Consultant at Civica, discusses how the user experience is critical to help housing providers transform future services. social housing T oday’s providers face the combined challenge of increasing tenant demand and reduced budgets. Cloud-based technology, AI and automation are providing the answers, improving services for tenants and the way they interact with providers but just as important is how we interact with the technology, as users or customers.

Software developers now spend equally as much time on the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) as they do on the actual programming of features and functions and need to take into account the context in which the system is being accessed.

A housing officer needs to be able to update the system directly when carrying out a visit, so the system needs to be as easy to use on a tablet or phone as it is in the office.

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When it comes to tenants ‘selfserving’, for example logging their own repair or booking an appointment, the requirement for a seamless user experience increases tenfold.

If a tenant can’t instantly access the services they need, they will simply pick up the phone and avoid the experience altogether, doubling the time spent in trying to resolve an issue and adding to the call centre’s workload. The tenant is also unlikely to repeat their online experience, for this or any other function.

Housing management systems have been around for the last few decades and have evolved at a relatively modest pace compared with other technologies that have come and gone over that time. A few years ago, Civica took the step of starting from scratch in the design of Cx Housing, our digital platform for social housing, focussing on the user experience and employing UX

designers as well as programmers to provide an intuitive and engaging user interface.

As consumers, we don’t need to be trained to search for an item for sale on Ebay, so why should it be any different when we’re searching for a person or property in a housing system?

This shift in emphasis requires a change in mindset across product and programming teams. Bringing in designers who have developed websites for major commercial customers as well as for the public sector.

Another important point is that user interface design is iterative and doesn’t stop with the release of a specific version. The actual UX can only be measured when a piece of software is ‘tested in anger’ for the purpose that it was designed. So, it’s vital to engage customers and end-users in the design process as it evolves. This is because it’s critical for the long-term sustainability of any

Nigel Thomson is a Housing Consultant at Civica. He joined the company in 2005 previously working as a Pre Sales Manager and Product Manager.

software that customers who have invested in it feel they have a say in its future.

Developers can benefit from users’ perspective and business expertise, plus the knowledge of their customers and how they think, act and behave, especially when it comes to engaging with a software application.

You’d expect your housing system to allow you to collect rent, manage repairs or help let a vacant property. But today’s customers are looking for that interactive Instagram or Amazonstyle experience when carrying out these tasks.

So wherever the use of cloudbased technology takes the social housing sector, be it enhanced artificial intelligence, Internet of Things or advanced analytics, the user experience will remain key to unlocking the potential of any future digital platforms. 

 www.civica.com/en-gb

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Washrooms

Specially designed low-level toilet cubicle doors are ideal for very young nursery and primary aged children

Well designed washrooms can also help promote healthy habits for good hygiene from a young age and can even reduce potential issues such as antisocial behaviour and bullying.

One size doesn’t fit all

PROVIDING FIRST-CLASS WASHROOM FACILITIES FOR SCHOOLS Trevor Bowers, Director at leading washroom manufacturer, Washroom Washroom explains how to create age-specific washroom facilities which will also withstand the rigours of a high traffic school environment to keep ongoing maintenance costs to a minimum. well as catering for A schildren from nursery age through to teenagers, increasing numbers of academies and

schools today also open up their facilities to the wider community. It’s therefore more important than ever before to

ensure that school washrooms are designed to accommodate the different requirements of end users across a range of ages.

The role washrooms play in any nursery, school or university should not be underestimated.

It is essential that they’re not just fit for purpose, but can also add value by creating a pleasant environment for students, staff and visitors alike.

Providing separate visitors’ washrooms with upgraded materials, contemporary colour schemes or full height floor-toceiling cubicle doors is an ideal solution for situations where a school’s facilities such as library, sports training area or IT suite, are shared with the community.

While full height toilet cubicle doors are perfect for visitors, staff and older students, specialist washroom manufacturers like Washroom Washroom have developed an extensive array of toilet cubicle sizes for younger children.

Specially designed low-level toilet cubicle doors are ideal for very young nursery and primary aged children, to make sure they feel at ease while also allowing for a greater degree of adult supervision if necessary.

With different cubicle door heights ranging anywhere from 1050 to 1950mm and up to full floor-to-ceiling doors readily available to those specifying for the education sector, there is a toilet cubicle suited for children of all ages requiring differing levels of supervision.

Adding a splash of colour

Well designed washrooms can help promote healthy habits for good hygiene from a young age

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Using bright colours to create an attractive space is a good way to ensure young children in particular will feel comfortable which can encourage them to adopt healthy habits from a young age. It has never been easier to incorporate colour into a washroom environment as cubicles, vanities and lockers can all be manufactured in a wide range of colours to suit any design.

Creating washrooms built to last Future maintenance needs – whether planned or reactive – should also be considered at the outset in order to keep ongoing maintenance costs to a minimum for the school.

Specifying an integrated duct panelling system, which is easy-to-clean and allows ease of access for future maintenance with minimal disruption, also hides unsightly pipework for a cleaner appearance.

Another key consideration is to ensure any materials chosen are as hardwearing as possible.

Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) is extremely durable and provides a hygienic surface which is easy to clean and is totally impervious to water. The solid construction of SGL means that with no substrate, it removes the need for independent edging which could come off, looking unsightly over time. It’s also highly resistant to vandalism, making it perfectly suited to a busy school environment.

While SGL offers a host of practical benefits, this does not come at the expense of aesthetics as it is available in a wide choice of different colours, to complement or tone in with any design scheme. When it comes to cubicles manufactured from SGL these can be specified

Washrooms

The addition of digital screenprinted designs on cubicle doors and partitions as well as on duct panelling, vanities and lockers, will also help create a unique space for children to use. Such designs have the added bonus of being easy to refresh and replace with new prints to create a new look quickly and easily.

Washroom Washroom’s colourful Frutti range of toilet cubicles has been developed specifically for the education sector and demonstrates how colour and screen-printing can be used effectively within a school washroom area.

Designed with rounded edges and machined to resemble fruit shapes, the low-level toilet cubicle doors are completed with digitally screen-printed designs to add to the overall fruity effect and provide element of fun within the washroom space.

Reimagining the traditional washroom layout and opting for more open layout designs has been shown to reduce such anti-social behaviour

with matching pilasters to create a flush front finish for a more contemporary appearance.

Minimising the potential for antisocial behaviour School washroom design also needs to deliver the perfect balance between the level of privacy and supervision required by students and staff. If this isn’t addressed as part of the design, school washrooms can become areas where antisocial behaviour such as vandalism and bullying happen, away from the watchful eyes of school staff and making some no-go areas for younger students.

Reimagining the traditional washroom layout and opting for more open layout designs has been shown to reduce such anti-social behaviour.

One option is to create a more open space by removing the door to the washroom areas in favour of individual full height cubicle doors and an open vanity area or unisex selfcontained cubicles including a WC, washbasin and hand-drying facilities. The more open design allows washroom areas to be overlooked by staff at all times, reducing the threat of bullying and other common issues, while the full height doors provide the privacy students need.

Another simple step is to install InfraRed sensor-operated taps, which are designed to turn off automatically, to reduce the possibility of costly damage from flooded washbasins if taps are left running by accident. Senoroperated taps also make for a more hygienic washroom area – something which is essential in a school environment where viruses can spread very quickly.

Education, perhaps more than any other sector, can benefit from a bespoke approach to washroom design, to ensure the different needs of various end users are effectively met. 

 www.washroom.co.uk

Washroom Washroom’s colourful Frutti range of toilet cubicles has been developed specifically for the education sector

27

Security

SCHOOL SUMMER HOLIDAY SECURITY TIPS

Ensuring gates onto the premises are securely locked will help to prevent burglaries

Alarms and security systems can act as a great visual deterrent

With holidays being an opportune time for thieves to target empty school buildings, the Master Locksmiths Association – a leading trade association for the locksmithing industry – is advising educational facilities to be prepared and vigilant to ensure their premises are protected over the holiday period.

Steffan George, D rManaging Director of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), commented: “As schools are left empty for long periods during the holidays, unfortunately they are subject to theft, vandalism and arson attacks. However, with adequate planning and security measures in place, you can help to deter these attacks and the risks can be easily minimised.”

The Master Locksmiths Association is urging schools to follow these simple steps to ensure the empty buildings are kept safe and secure during the summer holidays:

Locks Make sure all windows are double glazed, have security film where necessary and are fitted with appropriate locks which are in good condition and meet your insurance requirements. Ensure all external doors are fitted with high security, independently tested and approved locks and that where applicable all internal doors are locked/access control systems active. Doing this and ensuring gates onto

28

the premises are also securely locked will help to prevent burglaries, as well as providing additional peace of mind.

A local MLA-approved security expert can correctly specify security that needs to be secure when a building is not in use and provide the correct egress on escape routes when a building is in use. Fitting the wrong type of security can lead to entrapment areas with devastating effects so safety requirements must be met.

Expensive items such as these can be safely stored in a room with enhanced security features or in specific secure storage well away from any prying eyes.

Your MLA approved locksmith will be able to assist to increase security in areas required.

Secure the grounds Any fencing around the school site should be inspected to see that it is fully intact with no damaged bolts, hinges or handles and with no potential

access points which could work as a foothold for easy access to thieves.

Tend to the trees Large or overgrown trees and shrubbery can provide unnecessary cover for intruders.

This aspect of security is often overlooked but it can lead to blind spots on your CCTV coverage, leaving you susceptible to burglary. 

 www.locksmiths.co.uk

Sound the alarm As well as immediately alerting the police to any issues, alarms and security systems can also act as a great visual deterrent.

Ensure that your alarm is regularly maintained and that you change the code every six months to gain maximum benefit from the system.

Secure storage High value items such as IT equipment, musical instruments etc should not be visible from the outside and empty packaging must be discretely disposed so it doesn’t entice opportunist criminals.

Ensure all external doors are fitted with high security, independently tested and approved locks

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Technical Focus

CMX-MULTI MEV void

BREATHING LIFE INTO A HOME With buildings becoming increasingly air tight in a drive to improve energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions, the need for ‘pro-active’ ventilation has never been greater. Penny Jones, Product & Marketing Manager at Domus Ventilation, explains more. ventilating B ya correctly property we not only bring in fresh external air to breath but we also dilute and remove airborne pollutants (including odours) and control excess humidity. Every single person reading this will know what it’s like to be in a poorly ventilated room, whether it be hot and stuffy or damp from condensation. It not only makes

Group of duct products including bends

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for an uncomfortable home environment but poor indoor air quality (IAQ) also has known links to allergies, asthma, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease and even dementia.

Ventilation requirements Building Regulations Approved Document F, which details the

means of ventilation in new and materially altered properties, sets the minimum continuous extraction requirement for domestic properties at 13l/s from the kitchen, 8l/s from each bathroom/utility area and supply at the same rate.

Clearly opening a window is never going to achieve this, which is where mechanical ventilation steps in.

Types of ventilation systems There are four ventilation types suitable for a domestic property: System 1 – Intermittent Extract Ventilation System 2 – Passive Stack Ventilation System 3 – Continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) System 4 – Continuous Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) To achieve the levels of extraction required under Building Regulations, MEV and MVHR whole house ventilation systems are necessary in most cases.

An MEV system actively extracts air from ‘wet rooms’ (kitchens, bathrooms, utility spaces) via ducting to a central ventilation unit which further ducts to an exhaust point.

The systems are typically dual speed, providing low speed continuous trickle ventilation

and high-speed boost flow.

Replacement fresh air is drawn into the property via background ventilators located in the habitable rooms and through air leakage.

Unlike MEV, MVHR systems combine supply and extract ventilation in one system.

They work on the principle of extracting and re-using waste heat from wet rooms. MVHR systems efficiently temper the fresh air drawn into the building with heat attained from waste stale air using a heat exchanger; up to 95% of waste heat can be recovered by this mechanism.

The filtered, pre-warmed air is then distributed around the home, effectively meeting part of the heating load in energy efficient dwellings.

Key considerations All new homes can benefit from mechanical ventilation, but there are some aspects that are important to consider when specifying a system, based on the nature and location of the property.

Size: in larger properties, you have a far wider range of options in terms of the unit to use, where it’s located and how/where you run the ducting.

In smaller properties, that choice is reduced. Installation of the main MEV/MVHR unit in the loft used to be common practice, but with access issues and potential problems caused by lower temperatures in the loft, most units are now wall mounted within the heated

envelope of the property; most commonly in a cupboard.

The size of the unit therefore needs to be compact, especially when it comes to height; the Domus Ventilation HRXE MVHR, for example, is just 507mm in height. Where installation in a cupboard is not an option, then a ceiling void should be a consideration. Here the depth of the unit and weight are key factors.

The Domus Ventilation HRX-aQ is the shallowest in the market place, measuring down to 199mm in depth and weighing from just 7.9kg, making it compact and light enough to be easily installed in the most restrictive of ceiling voids.

Noise: nothing annoys a homeowner quite as much as being kept awake by a noisy appliance or building service.

Mechanical ventilation systems aren’t silent but they can be very quiet. Opt for a system that generates less than 24dBA (typically whisper quiet) at a distance of more than one meter away from the air valve.

Also, consider the use of an Anti-Vibration tray and duct sound attenuators to further reduce system noise.

Ducting: poor ducting (and that relates to the product quality, the duct run design and installation) impacts the air flow, sound and overall effectiveness of a system. Ensure quality ducting is used that fits together to minimise air leakage and avoid sharp bends which negatively impact air flow.

Instead of traditional branch based ducting systems, you might want to consider using a Radial semi-rigid ducting system when fitting MVHR systems – especially good in small spaces. Radial systems allow each room vent to be served by single or twin duct runs which connect directly to the central distribution system, evenly splitting the air from the MVHR unit. Some manufacturers enable you to combine both types of ducting through the use of special adaptors, for a versatile solution where lack of space or tight void areas are an issue.

Polluted areas: inner-cities have higher concentrations of pollution so bringing that air into a property may meet Building Regulations, but it’s not good for the inhabitants.

Here an MVHR system is ideal as it comes with filters to remove pollutants.

Technical Focus

CMX-S MEV plan

HRXD MVHR

Continuous Mechanical Ventilation systems have never been so popular. Look at any of the property shows on TV these days and you can bet a mechanical ventilation system will be part of the house specification in one form or another. For housebuilders, these systems have become an important means of addressing the issues borne out of making homes more air tight and are even a useful marketing tool; a value add.

For homeowners, considerable savings on energy bills can be achieved due to the reduced heating demand but, more importantly, there’s a considerable benefit from improved IAQ that goes way beyond simply making a home a comfortable one: it needs to be a safe, healthy one also. 

 www.domusventilation.co.uk

HRXD MVHR

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Damp-Proofing

Visqueen’s innovative solution protects against the ingress of harmful ground gases, as well as preventing water ingress

For Fresh Wharf, Visqueen recommended the use of Visqueen Ultimate GeoSeal and Visqueen Gas Barrier

VISQUEEN TO SAFEGUARD RIVERSIDE DEVELOPMENT Gas protection and waterproofing systems from Visqueen have been specified for Fresh Wharf, a development of 900 homes being built on reclaimed industrial land next to the River Roding in Barking, east London. of one-, two T heandmixthree-bedroom apartments, and a number of townhouses, is being developed in two phases by Countryside Properties, in partnership with Notting Hill Housing, and is to be completed by 2026.

The membrane installation contractor is NEA Contracts.

Monitoring of the 10-acre site, a former industrial estate, revealed a cocktail of potentially hazardous ground gases that, when coupled with hydrostatic water pressure from the river, presented a number of technical challenges that needed to be overcome at the design stage.

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Paul Vincent, Technical Support Manager for Visqueen, said the combination of a brownfield site with a river bank location meant it was critical to work closely with the architect, main contractor and membrane installation contractor early on to ensure a good understanding of each building and enable specification of the right products and systems to protect the development in the long term.

Paul said: “Available green spaces for inner city developments are becoming more and more sparse, which

has meant that brownfield sites have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in places where demand for residential property is high.

“Gas monitoring of this site revealed ground gases including carbon dioxide, methane and radon, so it was imperative we had systems in place to protect the site against these harmful gases, as well as water ingress.”

For Fresh Wharf, Paul recommended the use of Visqueen Ultimate GeoSeal and Visqueen Gas Barrier, a multi-layer reinforced gas barrier solution

that meets the strict criteria set out in BS 8485:2015+A1:2019 guidance documents.

Paul added: “The high ground surrounding the development and its underground elements in basements and lift pits was another key consideration during the design stage and throughout our on-site meetings with the architect and contractor.

“The below ground structures are subjected to multiple complex conditions such as hydrostatic water pressure and harmful ground gases, so it is paramount that the product design and product detailing cover all of these elements.”

Visqueen Ultimate GeoSeal, a pre-applied membrane, and Visqueen Gas Resistant Self-Adhesive Membrane were specified for use as a dualpurpose application in the lift pits and in the basements. This innovative solution protects against the ingress of harmful ground gases, as well as preventing water ingress, which are common issues faced when protecting underground structures.

Paul continued: “Damage to buildings is often caused by leaking junctions in pile foundation systems. Water and moisture can track its way along the steel reinforcement, leading to potential corrosion and carbonation of the steel, which carries a risk to the structural integrity of the building.

Therefore implementing a solution that waterproofed the joins between the piles and building slab was a critical design element.”

Visqueen Pile Cap Sealer is a specialised formulation that,

Visqueen’s total approach is first class and delivers the difference that the latest building projects now demand

when applied to a concrete surface, causes a chemical reaction with the free lime and moisture within the concrete to form in depth, insoluble crystals that fill and block all capillaries, fissures, pores and minor cracks within the concrete.

Traditional construction membranes can’t pass through pile foundation junctions, so a Visqueen Pile Cap Sealer solution was used to waterproof the junction between the pile foundation and the floor slab.

This provided an innovative non-membrane water and gas proofing solution that would last for the lifespan of the building.

Garry Tarvet MCIOB, Associate Technical Director (East London), Countryside Properties, said: “Working with Visqueen gave us complete peace of mind. They supplied everything from technical drawings and product durability statements, through to the wide range of products

required to deal with protection challenges on-site. Visqueen’s total approach is first class and delivers the difference that the latest building projects now demand.”

Neil McNamara, Director at NEA Contracts Ltd, said: “Technical expertise is key for the complex waterproofing and ground gas protection

Damp-Proofing

Visqueen Pile Cap Sealer solution was used to waterproof the junction between the pile foundation and the floor slab

experienced today on many sites. Visqueen Special Projects provides a complete solution, from identifying the specific challenges on-site, to supplying the unique combination of protection products required to meet the latest technical building standards.” 

 www.visqueen.com

A solution that waterproofed the joins between the piles and building slab was a critical design element

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Anti-Ligature Solutions The ‘hook’ is fixed in a ball joint, which is held in place by a spring-loaded ball bearing

Anti-ligature products are a top priority when building or retrofitting mental health facilities or secure units to mitigate risk

handle is on a curved rose, which is set at a 45-degree angle. When pressure is applied it falls to 90 degrees (vertical), causing ligatures to slip off.

The lever also bolts through the door so that no fixings are visible on the inside of the door. For maximum protection, an Anti-Ligature Escutcheon should also be installed, which is smoothly curved to deter the attachment of ligatures.

For larger doors equipped with door closing devices, the Anti-Ligature Pad Handle has a large diameter which gives sufficient grip to pull the door closed, but is angled top and bottom to prevent the introduction of ligatures.

Bathrooms

Enduro Ball Bearing Anti Ligature Tip Hinges are a good option for heavy duty fire doors of up to 120kg

An Anti-Ligature Lever Door Handle is a crucial component when trying to ensure safety and security

ENSURING SAFETY WITH SPECIALIST ANTILIGATURE PRODUCTS Whilst designed to be extremely robust, anti-ligature products are also intuitive and easy to use, ensuring quick operation for staff in complex or challenging situations. With a range of hardware available, Jamie Johnson, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect, looks at some key fixtures to consider.

Door hardware When choosing anti-ligature door hardware, it is important to select products that are crafted from materials such as stainless steel for added strength and durability. As fire safety is paramount in any multi-occupancy building, anti-ligature door hardware must also comply with fire door regulations.

Door closers are an essential part of fire safety to prevent smoke and fire from spreading.

However, in psychiatric health and secure accommodation facilities it is vital that they are

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fully concealed so that they can’t be used as a ligature point.

They can also be installed at a low height, thereby reducing the risk of the closer being used as a suspension device.

The Ryobi Transom Door Closer is a robust but discreet alternative to the traditional overhead door closer. Fully concealed within the door, it retains the aesthetic look of the door and also prevents vandalism of the closer. With easy and accurate latching and closing speed adjustment, it’s suitable for single and double action doors.

Enduro Ball Bearing Anti Ligature Tip Hinges are a good option for heavy duty fire doors of up to 120kg. CE marked to conform with health, safety, and environmental protection standards, they also comply with British Standard EN 1935 for hinges on fire-resistant doors, providing they are used with the relevant intumescent pads. The anti-ligature knuckles ensure that the hinge knuckle projection cannot be used as a ligature point.

An Anti-Ligature Lever Door Handle is a crucial component when trying to ensure safety and security. The lever door

As coins are generally allowed in mental health facilities, a standard turn and release doorknob is not suitable for bathrooms in these buildings.

Therefore, a product like the Anti-Ligature Barricade Turn & Release should be considered.

This operates on a specialist key that is held and used by staff and the clutch knob can also prevent barricading.

For bathrooms where towels or garments will need to be hung up, an Anti-Ligature Single Coat Hook is essential.

The ‘hook’ is fixed in a ball joint, which is held in place by a spring-loaded ball bearing. It will take the weight of a normal towel, but additional weight will cause it to collapse, releasing any ligature.

Considerations Anti-ligature products are a top priority when building or retrofitting mental health facilities or secure units to mitigate risk. Understanding the scope of hardware available will enable you to choose the best solution and achieve the highest levels of safety and security.

Whilst there is no official British Standard for antiligature products, they should be tested to comply with the DHF Technical Specification TS001:2013. Products that are compliant with the BS 8300 Equality Act should also be considered in order to meet the needs of disabled people. 

 www.ironmongerydirect.com

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Inclusive Design

The property at Noakes Meadow has square rooms with a wide hallway in which turning circles are possible for Carole in her powered wheelchair

Project: Noakes Meadow Location: Ashford Architect: RDA Consulting Architects

There are three accessible standards for new builds under Part M of the Building Regulations:

BLUEPRINT FOR INCLUSIVE DESIGN

Ashford Borough Council has scooped the Best Social or Affordable New Housing Development award at the LABC South East Building Excellence Awards for its wheelchair-standard Noakes Meadow scheme.

Meadow N oakes comprises two affordable homes suitable for wheelchair users. The council had already identified the site for development but by pre-allocating one of the twobedroom bungalows for Mr and Mrs MacGregor, it was able to liaise closely with the couple to provide a bespoke build to fully take into account Mrs MacGregor’s disability.

Occupational therapists who viewed the semi-detached property during its construction had commented that it should be the blueprint for the type of bespoke wheelchair-standard accommodation that ought to be built across the country.

The Noakes Meadow project team included Ashford Borough Council, contractors DCB (Kent) Ltd, RDA Consulting Architects (Kent) Ltd, and Pellings LLP.

The worktop heights can be adjusted to enable Carole to cook and wash up should she so wish and all of the cupboards are also fully accessible

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The property at Noakes Meadow has square rooms with a wide hallway in which turning circles are possible for Carole in her powered wheelchair. The wet room is accessed via two very wide doorways and the wooden flooring throughout enables Carole to use her standing aid, something that is not possible on carpet. Sections of the internal walls could be removed to enable a hoist to be fitted in the property in due course, should Carole require one to still enjoy their home.

In the kitchen, the worktop heights can be adjusted to enable Carole to cook and wash up should she so wish and all of the cupboards are also fully accessible. The smaller paved garden is also wheelchair friendly and will enable Carole to plant in pots and enjoy the sunshine throughout the summer months.

When Ashford Borough Council handed over the property to the couple in February last year, Carole MacGregor said: “It’s just amazing, the council and DCB have bent over backwards to accommodate us. Finally someone has understood a disabled person’s every need. I have been included in the design process from the outset and am beyond pleased with the result. I am so grateful to everyone involved.”

M4(1) which is visitable (and which every new dwelling must achieve and is the default Building Control checking position) M4(2) which is adaptable (an optional standard that can be imposed in a planning consent), which means the dwelling layouts can be adapted to be reasonably suitable for all in the future with some alterations.

M4(3) which is fully accessible for wheelchair users (an optional standard that can be imposed in a planning consent), which effectively means the dwelling layouts are suitable for all from the outset. This is the most onerous standards, and it is not considered possible, once built, to even adapt an M4(2) dwelling to achieve this M4(3) standard.

Cllr Bill Barrett, Ashford Borough Council comments: "Initially the homes at Noakes Meadow were to just meet the M4(1) standard as there was no planning condition stipulating otherwise. However, when the council became aware of the MacGregor’s situation, we met with them and decided that the best way forward would be to redesign the layout to be fully M4(3) compliant. We managed to turn this redesign around in a week, as the on-site build was already at ground floor beam and block level and we couldn’t really afford a delay to the build programme."

Fortunately the initial design for Noakes Meadow lends itself to a workable redesign to achieve the M4(3) standard.

The extra build costs to achieve this standard compared to the initial M4(1) standard have been less than half that quoted in Government documents, which represents a great result for Ashford Borough Council. 

 www.dcbkent.co.uk  www.pellings.co.uk  www.rdaarchitects.co.uk

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Community centre heralds a New Beginning, thanks to Armstrong Ceilings A year after it won Armstrong Ceiling Solutions’ competition for an admirable cause to win a new ceiling, a community centre in West Yorkshire is heralding a New Beginning for local residents.

The Space Field Lane is a £480,000 renovation project using Armstrong’s ultra-green Dune eVo ceiling tiles. The community centre had lain empty for almost seven years, on the Field Lane estate in Rastrick near Halifax.

Dune eVo is the next evolution in ceiling tiles. Fully recyclable, it provides class-leading aesthetics and improved acoustic performance through a new surface which is both brighter and smoother. It is also the first ceiling system in the industry to gain Cradle To Cradle accreditation.

 www.armstrongceilings.com/commercial  sales-support@armstrong.co.uk  0800 371 849

Helifix adds to its portfolio of Masonry Repair Details

Ancon’s technical seminars now available in bite size webinars

Structural repair specialist, Helifix, has recently made an addition to its extensive range of over 100 Repair Details, which give full technical and installation information on how to overcome a wide variety of structural faults. The new Repair Detail, RD WT35, gives guidance on how to connect a new timber frame to an existing masonry wall, when the new timber stud is erected within an existing masonry building and there is no access to install wall ties from the outside. Every repair detail features drawings and provides details of the required products and tooling, specification notes and a step by step guide on how to undertake each repair using concealed installation techniques.

Ancon has extended its technical services offering with the addition of webinars to complement a highly successful CPD-approved seminar programme of over 30 years. The first webinar available in the series is entitled The Correct Use of Wall Ties in Brick-to-Block Construction. This webinar provides viewers with information on the various types of cavity wall restraints and their design considerations including how to limit heat/sound transfer. The webinars are delivered by Ancon technical staff who have considerable technical experience of applying seminar content in practice and in answering questions from both specifiers and contractors.

 www.helifix.co.uk  info@helifix.co.uk  0208 735 5200

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The project was entered for Armstrong’s eVoNewBeginnings competition by the project’s coordinator Neil Hardaker of Pickles Architecture in Brighouse.

The competition for up to 250m2 of Dune eVo tiles and grid plus up to three days of free installation by a member of Armstrong’s national network of approved Omega installers was promoted through Armstrong’s social media sites (LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest).

Open to any non-commercial project in the UK and Ireland that serves a community, it was judged by two internal and one external judge, with the winner being the project they thought most deserved.

Quality Ceilings of Elland, who is a member of Armstrong’s Omega network of approved installers, had two men on the project for a total of a working week. They installed a total of 350m2 of Dune eVo tiles in the main hall, offices, toilets and kitchen area.

The Space Field Lane was selected as the winner by judges Sara Rees, head of fundraising at the Rays of Sunshine Children’s Charity (Armstrong’s chosen charity for 2018), Armstrong sales director Graham Taylor and Armstrong HR director Sara Carter.

 www.ancon.co.uk/resources/webinars  info@ancon.co.uk  0114 275 5224

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Sarnafil HD proves it’s tough enough New Elgin primary school in Moray, Scotland, has had a Sarnafil HD system installed to meet its need for a new high-quality flat roof refurbishment. With previous roof re-coverings not up to scratch, the school needed a system to improve the building’s thermal performance, save energy and improve robustness – providing a solution tough enough to mitigate damage caused by vandalism attacks experienced at the school. By combining the thickest single ply membrane available – 2mm – and the most robust insulation board – SarnaTherm HD – the Sarnafil HD system offered a resilient and well-insulated solution. Plus, with the 2mm membrane outperforming all other membranes according to puncture test data, the system guarantees a long-lasting roof.

With a combination of the hard-wearing Sarnafil HD and the use of SarnaLite roof lights and SikaLastic liquid polyurethane to finish the installation, the durable roof is now protected for years to come.

And with a 20-year Sarnafil Plus Extended Product and Installation Guarantee, the school has gained complete peace of mind.

Designer Contracts wins big at recycling awards Designer Contracts has been named ‘Take Back Partner of the Year’ for the fourth time by Carpet Recycling UK (CRUK), at the annual awards and conference held at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham. Its National Distribution Manager, Glenn Mitchell, who made a presentation to the conference about the company’s recycling initiatives, was also named ‘Recycling Champion of the Year’. Said Designer Contracts MD, Peter Kelsey: “We are absolutely thrilled to be regarded so highly by Carpet Recycling UK for both our recycling efforts – and for Glenn who works tirelessly to ensure the systems are in place to divert over 250 tonnes of waste from landfill each year. We also won the ‘Take Back’ award in 2015, 2016 and 2017, so to win for a fourth time is fantastic!” The company’s ‘Take Back Scheme’ works by diverting 90% of unfitted carpet waste through waste solution companies who convert it into a sustainable resource.

 www.designercontracts.com  enquiries@designercontracts.com  01246 854577

 www.sarnafil.co.uk  01707 394444

Crown paints a bright future with Bournemouth University

Crown Paints has secured a prestigious agreement with Bournemouth University, which will see products from across the Crown Trade range used for future new build and refurbishment projects. As the university’s sole supplier of paints and specialist coatings, Crown’s specification team has worked closely with the Bournemouth University’s facilities department to devise a bespoke paint package and colour scheme that will provide long term cost benefits and reduce ongoing maintenance requirements.

The chosen paint specification, which includes Crown Trade’s high performance Clean Extreme Stain Resistant Scrubbable Matt and Acrylic Eggshell, and water-based Fastflow Quick Dry Gloss, will now form part of the university’s official Design Standards Manual.

 www.crowntrade.co.uk

 info@crowntrade.co.uk

Mipolam Symbioz – a sustainable futureproof flooring for hardworking places  0330 024 0297

Colorcoat Urban provides 25-year Guarantee The Colorcoat Urban standing seam roof and wall system now benefits from a complimentary Confidex Home Guarantee for the pre-finished steel.

Offered directly to the home owner, the registration process is quick and simple via the Confidex Home web page. Colorcoat Urban delivers excellent aesthetics, performance and eco-credentials, and provides a superior sleek finish as the panels fit seamlessly together with a quick fit system. Available in a range of colours to blend with the surrounding landscape, including colour matched gutters and fascias, everything in the Colorcoat Urban system has been designed to create an innovative, durable, high performance result.

 www.tatasteelconstruction.com  colorcoaturban@tatasteeleurope.com  01244 892449

The Mipolam Symbioz homogenous range is Gerflor’s first flooring to contain a 100% bio-based plasticiser made of corn and wheat. The range now includes 38 stunning colours overall, with 14 brand new colours supplementing Mipolam Symbioz and a further seven added to the new Mipolam Symbioz Nova collection. Nav Dhillon, Marketing Manager, Gerflor UK commented: “The refreshed palette of colours now on offer with Mipolam Symbioz and the new Mipolam Symbioz Nova collection is aimed at giving designers more freedom to creatively express themselves, whilst at the same time delivering outstanding performance that is synonymous with our Mipolam range of products.”

 www.gerflor.co.uk  contractuk@gerflor.com  01926 622600

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HVAC

Rinnai is an acknowledged global leader in the manufacture of tankless hot water heating units

RINNAI DELIVERS HOT WATER AT SCARBOROUGH CARE HOME Rinnai hot water: Instant, continuous, limitless and sensibly economic for every type of commercial site. continuous flow hot R innai water heating units have replaced a vastly oversized, and close to redundant, traditional style of system at the Coombe Hay Care Home in Scarborough.

Coombe Hay is situated in large, attractive and tranquil gardens on the outskirts of Scarborough, only minutes from the town centre and seafront. Coombe Hay offers accommodation which is fully en-suite and suitable for male and female residents, with some larger apartments available for two people.

Coombe Hay began in 1958, when money bequeathed

by George Edward Smart established the Charitable Trust which now owns and runs the Home. Nowadays the Board of Trustees ensure that the benefactor’s vision for a home providing excellent care for its residents continues to develop, incorporating all that anyone would want from their new home.

As a registered charity, all money is reinvested into the home to deliver excellent services and to keep fees and costs affordable.

Comgas Heating advised on the replacement system and

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chose two Rinnai HD55i units: Heavy duty, high efficiency, gas fired, continuous flow water heating units with optimal fuel consumption. In like-for-like comparison to more traditional methods, the continuous flow system is proven to be more cost effective over a lifetime. Rinnai is an acknowledged global leader in the manufacture of tankless hot water heating units with group sales approaching £2bn.

The Rinnai HD55i is an internal wall hung, gas fired, continuous flow water heater capable of producing hot water in excess of 820L per hour at a 50°C rise. The HD55i has a 125mm concentric flue which can be extended up to 15m, less 1m per 45° bend.

As with the whole of the Rinnai range the HD55i is ErP A-rated.

The unit is compact, reliable and combines industry standards with innovation and quality. The HD55i operates between 1-10 bar pressure, which is suitable for mains cold water supply and systems with booster pumps. It reaches water temperatures of up to 85°C, making the HD55i suitable for secondary return systems.

Rinnai continuous flow hot water heating units have replaced a vastly oversized, and close to redundant, traditional style of system

Rinnai heavy duty, continuous flow, gas fired, water heaters feature outputs up to 58kW and water can be delivered at very precise, high volume temperature control. The smart digital controller regulates to within +/- 1ºC without any variation of temperature even with additional outlets. All models have full electronic ignition with no pilot light and operate on demand only, consuming no gas when not in use.

The Rinnai HD55i is a fully modulating 52.6kW unit that can also be installed in a manifold arrangement. This ensures that the

system can and will meet any hot water demand at all peak times, no matter what the demand.

Typical applications include major restaurant chains, industry offices, hotels, sports centres, schools, sports clubs and shower blocks in holiday parks – anywhere with a need for extremely reliable supplies of hot water delivered economically and at energy efficiency levels, which surpasses all building regulations and European standards.

 www.rinnaiuk.com  info@rinnaiuk.com  01928 531870

The system can and will meet any hot water demand at all peak times, no matter what the demand

www.firmanglass.com

Established in 1975 Firman Glass is one of the leading independent glass processors in the UK, manufacturing toughened glass, laminated glass and specialist sealed units.

Based in Harold Wood Essex within 5 minutes of junction 28 of the M25 and half an hour from Central London we are ideally situated to service our ever growing and diverse customer base.

Manufacturing all forms of processed toughened glass, with comprehensive stocks of clear float, low iron, satin, body tinted, mirrors, laminated glass, acoustic laminated and fire rated glass.

With some of the most advanced capabilities in place Firman Glass is able to manufacture high quality products for all markets sectors including architectural, retail, leisure and domestic.

Glass Excellence Products • • • • •

Toughened glass Processing CNC shaping Laminated glass Toughened and laminated constructions • EVA and Vanceva coloured interlays • Fabric and decorative interlays • Structural interlays

• • • • • • • • •

Specialist insulating glass units Anti–slip glass Fire rated glass UV bonding Electric switchable glass Heated glass Decorative glass Sandblasting ColorfirmTM back painted glass

Applications • • • • • • •

Structural glazing Glass floors Partitions Roof lights Balustrades Full height barriers Canopies

• • • • • • •

Staircases Treads and stringers Shower screens Shelving Glass doors Acoustic reduction Fire rated

• • • • • •

Decoration Wall cladding Splashbacks Privacy Technical Support Nationwide Coverage

Further information is available from our sales and technical offices or visit www.firmanglass.com Firman Glass,19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 OJH Tel: 01708 374534 Fax: 01708 340511 Email: sales@firmanglass.com

www.firmanglass.com

HVAC

Rinnai’s HDC1600i/e low NOx, gas-fired continuous flow water heater, delivers commercial qualities of hot water, up to 37 litres per minute on demand to any site

RINNAI - ‘E’ BEFORE ‘I’ OR VICE VERSA? Rinnai offers big performance, heavy duty, diminutive appliances that offer virtually limitless volumes of hot water at useable temperatures – all through engineering design and excellence. And both ‘E’ (external) – and ‘I’ (internal) versions are offered. Here Chris Goggin, Rinnai Operations Director, explains the why and the where of using either model to suit the application. appliances such G asas fired hot water heating units or domestic or light commercial boilers tend to be wall hung on the interior of a site. Having a unit sited internally on a kitchen wall or a plant room is convenient for the end-user and for the installer or contractor in terms of installation, maintenance or servicing.

However, external models of hot water heating units have become increasingly popular.

We are seeing more and more units sold as installers seem to be favouring external siting for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, having a gas fired unit internally has its own restrictions – lack of internal space, flueing restrictions and impediments, exact siting for installer convenience, inspections etc. On external units a whole stack of advantages come into play – starting with the fact that it is

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a gas fired appliance and it is outside habitable space; and with no need for a flue there’s greater flexibility on exactly where you place the unit; it is easier to service and maintain; all units have robust casings and comprehensive weather controls, for example a Rinnai external appliance is frost protected down to minus 25ºC. All these factors add up to possible economies for the end user and ease of installation for the installer.

Rinnai offers several units in both external – ‘E’ – and internal – ‘I’ – models. They are in the more heavy-duty part of our product range – 1600, 1500, 55 but also at the smaller end – the 17e.

Rinnai’s HDC1600i/e low NOx, gas-fired continuous flow water heater, delivers commercial qualities of hot water, up to 37 litres per minute on demand to any site and application. And they are ErP ‘A’ rated.

Rinnai offers several units in both external – ‘E’ – and internal – ‘I’ – models

The Rinnai external version HDC1200e gives end users 105.5% net efficiency because the condensing process delivers up to 95% thermal efficiency, translating to significant energy savings when compared to standard tankless water heaters.

All of which makes the HDC continuous flow hot water range by far the best option for all types of applications. With a continuous flow water heater you can never run out of hot water no matter how many individual baths or showers or delivery points are being used simultaneously.

The only time the unit is using energy is when there is a demand, in other words it is only burning gas when a tap or shower is being run and, design improvements by Rinnai have increased the lowered NOx levels and increased efficiencies to market ready levels.

The Rinnai 17e is designed for use directly off the mains, with no need for large, ungainly

storage vessels. Weighing just 17kg and measuring 503mmH x 355.6mmW x 181mmD the Rinnai 17e has been developed to allow maximum flexibility as it can be easily mounted on an external wall thereby eliminating the need for flueing and freeing up valuable interior space. This feature gives greater flexibility at the design stage and can offer an alternative solution where flue runs are problematic or internal space is not available.

A range of external ancillary items including a pipe cover box and security cage are available where necessary.

Capable of flow rates of up to 510 litres per hour at a 50°C rise, the 17e is suitable for multiple applications, such as cafes, small restaurants and kitchen facilities.

 www.rinnaiuk.com  info@rinnaiuk.com  01928 531870

HVAC

Warmafloor introduces smart heating interface unit ‘Cool’ new ventilation system enhances student experience A new cooling and ventilation system has been installed at Central Library at Imperial College London – thanks to Waterloo.

Air distribution products were supplied by expert manufacturer, Waterloo Air Product, as part of the four-floor refurbishment.

As part of the planning process, specialists from Waterloo were invited to discuss the project, which included the installation of an active chilled beam. In the early stages, architects chose not to have a false ceiling in the new library, but designers still had to create the right aesthetics. To cope with fluctuating levels of occupancy, Waterloo recommended a VAV system. Variable air volume boxes feed the active air side of the beams so that the air can vary to suit the load requirements and the occupancy levels.

To create a feature of the installation, the active beam plenum boxes and interconnecting ductwork were supplied in matt black.

And because the units were being installed in a working library, a very low noise level of NR30 had to be achieved.

 www.waterloo.co.uk  sales@waterloo.co.uk  01622 711500

Warmafloor, a leading provider of underfloor heating and cooling systems, has launched Calefa, its first-ever heating interface unit (HIU) for the district heating market, setting new standards for heating and domestic hot water delivery. Featuring a unique, four-option control bypass, Calefa is the most efficient unit available on the market, confirmed by independent BESA testing.

The system’s ‘keep warm’ function can be set to 24/7, off, schedule mode – where the user sets certain times for it to come on – or auto mode. When switched to auto mode, the smart system monitors and learns usage patterns in the home, gaining accurate insights after just two weeks. This ensures that hot water will always be quickly available at key usage times, while reducing overall energy consumption.

Having been engineered in collaboration with parent company Wavin, the unit can also be linked to Warmafloor’s underfloor heating control system, Sentio, allowing for appbased domestic hot water control.

 www.warmafloor.co.uk  sales@warmafloor.co.uk  01489 581787

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Doors & Windows

GEZE SOLUTION IS JUST THE TICKET

With a height of just 70mm, Slimdrive SL NT operators are almost invisible, virtually silent in operation and can move leaf weights of up to 125kg

Laser precision proved to be just the ticket in the redevelopment of Telford’s bus station where the latest GEZE technology has combined efficiency with passenger safety. hub – part of T hethetravel Telford Shopping Centre – has undergone a £1.9m refurbishment and transformed an ‘out-of-date’ terminus to a light and airy atrium geared to improve passenger experience.

The new Telford Bus Station separates the transport and customer areas with a bank of automatic doors powered by the GEZE Slimdrive SL NT operators.

Each set of doors is fitted with a

GEZE laser scanner LZR sensor – a new product devised for use in environments that have specific and demanding requirements.

The movement sensors provide a three-dimensional protection of the monitored area which initiate door openings at the optimum time. This is a massive boon to passenger safety as the automatic doors stay closed – activated only when the bus is parked and in position.

This protects passengers from wandering into the area when bus manoeuvres are taking place.

As LZR scanners are fitted to the doors they are easier to install and are more aesthetically pleasing than sensor loops, which need to be embedded into the ground and sealed with bitumen in order to install.

Sensor loops also deteriorate over time and can be expensive and awkward to replace.

The new Telford Bus Station separates the transport and customer areas with a bank of automatic doors powered by the GEZE Slimdrive SL NT operators

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They not only make an ideal safety barrier but also add to the improved aesthetic of the station. With a height of just 70mm, Slimdrive SL NT operators are almost invisible, virtually silent in operation and can move leaf weights of up to 125kg. They are ideal for buildings with high levels of footfall and a continuous flow of people heading in and out of the building.

Integrated within the shopping centre, the bus station acts as a ‘hub and spoke’ operation for the borough’s transport network and is intended to boost economic growth by encouraging increasing visitor numbers into to the town and providing an ‘attractive gateway’.

The re-development is a partnership between Telford Shopping Centre, Arriva and Telford & Wrekin Council which secured £1.3m for the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership towards the improved bus station facility.

The improvements are part of a wider programme of expansion and modernisation costing £200m and coincided with Telford 50 – the golden anniversary of the creation of Telford as a new town.

Andy Howland, Sales and Marketing Director for GEZE UK, comments: “The redevelopment of Telford Bus Station has significantly improved the facilities for commuters using public transport and making it a pleasurable experience.

“We are delighted that GEZE technology has helped bring about some of this change and delivered a solution that is effective, efficient and brings real benefits to bus station operations and the people who use such an important transport hub.”

Matt Powell, Network and Transport Group Manager at Telford & Wrekin Council, also comments: “The provision of intelligent access solutions at bus loading points was a key part of improving safety in the new building. The solution provided has been a great success, and helped us meet this objective without any manual intervention.”

 www.geze.co.uk  info.uk@geze.com  01543 443000

Doors & Windows

Comar launches the ECO LT window and door systems Designed specifically for the British market and offering a truly British engineered solution, Comar profiles have thicker walls, providing extra strength and durability.

Comar ECO LT is a newly-launched aluminium window and door system designed for the trade and installer market, where a competitive price yet the highest installed performance is required.

Sightlines have been minimised whilst not sacrificing product performance. Large sizes come as standard from the same range of profiles.

With low U-values, energy ratings of A++ and Document Q compliance with Secured by Design status, this is a feature rich system which guarantees a quality installation.

Comar ECO LT is a lightweight version of the ECO range, but the aluminium profiles wall thickness has not been sacrificed, ensuring guaranteed long-term performance.

Due to its robust British design, the size and

weight limitations surpass the competition on a size-by-size basis.

5P.I ECO LT – Aluminium Window System Comar 5P.i ECO LT Aluminium Casement window system has both internally and externally glazed options. The square chamfered profiles are a distinctive feature of this system, keeping the square look of a truly aluminium solution.

7P.i ECO LT – Aluminium Door System Comar 7P.i ECO LT Aluminium door system has both inward and outward opening options in single or double door combinations. There are two thresholds available; high weather performance and low-rise for seamless balcony terrace integration.

Utilising Comar’s trademark P.i. (Polyamide Insulation) thermal break technology, it delivers superior thermal performance with an aesthetic edge.

 www.comar-alu.co.uk  projects@parksidegroup.co.uk  0208 685 9685

Prevent False Fire Alarms Protective covers designed to reduce the threat of accidental or malicious activations causing unwanted fire alarms and evacuations

Stand FX920  www.sti-emea.com  info@sti-emea.com  01527 520 999  PSBJ_STI_June19_185x122.indd 1

02/05/2019 09:42:40

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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

BAUDER SELECTED AS TRUSTED SUPPLIER FOR FACILITY UPGRADE Hexagon Tower is a specialist science and technology facility located in North Manchester. The roofs of the laboratories were experiencing water ingress due to poor original detailing and aged interfaces. looking to replace the W hilst failing roof, the client also wanted to upgrade the insulation to increase the U-value and improve the appearance of the rooftop using a trusted system.

Bauder was selected as the supplier due to its comprehensive service offering, which includes detailed report, bespoke specification, project advice and ongoing inspections to ensure a full system guarantee can be issued.

The building was occupied by employees during the works with multiple trades on site.

Bauder provided a system and installation methodology, to keep disruption to a minimum for both the employees within the building and the residents of the surrounding areas. The sensitive nature of the work being carried out within the building meant that mechanical and electrical equipment could not be switched off for more than a few hours at a time.

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A Bauderflex system incorporating vapour control layer, 120mm PIR FA-TE insulation and two-layer bitumen waterproofing, with a brown finish was installed

PROJECT FACT FILE Project Name: Hexagon Tower Location: Manchester Roof size: 6000m2 Waterproofing system: Bauderflex Client: IF Building Consultancy Roofing contractor: BBR Roofing

Elements of the existing roof surface were removed, details modified and then a Bauderflex system incorporating vapour control layer, 120mm PIR FATE insulation and two-layer bitumen waterproofing, with a brown finish was installed.

BBR Roofing installed the system, finishing the roof area with expertly installed complex detailing around columns, windows and the area protected with a new freestanding guard rail.

Tom Frankel, Director, IF Building Consultancy was delighted with the finished result. His words to Bauder personally were: “Thank you for making this project as seamless as possible.

Your continued support has reaffirmed my position that you are the ‘go to guys’ for flat roofing. A job well done.”

 www.bauder.co.uk  0845 271 8800

The building was occupied by employees during the works with multiple trades on site

Vibrant new student accomodation in Norwich Using a new solution to fix non-combustible insulation to a steel frame structure, ROCKWOOL delivered on creating a fire proof and thermally sound building for students in Norwich.

Pablo Fanque House is part of a rejuvenation of Norwich’s city centre and provides brand new state-of-the-art accommodation to over 244 students.

Wanting to reach the highest standard of fire safety by using non-combustible insulation, Alumno Developments and HG Construction

were determined to push the boundaries and approached ROCKWOOL to see if the stone wool manufacturer could provide a solution.

ROCKWOOL’s Technical Specification Manager, Hedley Thompson, worked with structural building components manufacturer ACS to develop a fully tested

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

solution that would allow ROCKWOOL RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB to be used in conjunction with ACS ROCKWOOL Framefix.

ROCKWOOL SP Firestop was installed alongside 125mm ROCKWOOL RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB. Specifically designed for high rise buildings, ROCKWOOL RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB is a dual density insulation board that is manufactured from volcanic rock and comprises a robust outer surface and a resilient inner face. By compressing the primary fleece onto the top 15mm of the insulation, the product can be used, unprotected, in conditions of severe climatic exposure, including strong wind and rain as experienced at high altitudes.

ROCKWOOL SP Firestop is designed to form an open-state cavity fire barrier within external cladding systems that allow for ventilation and drainage of the cavity under service conditions. The SP Firestop VRB has been tested with ROCKWOOL RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB to ASFP TGD 19: “Fire resistance test or ‘Open State’ cavity barriers, used in the external fabric of buildings”. The combination of non-combustible insulation and an effective fire barrier supports fire safe facade systems and aids the design of high-rise buildings above 18m.

 www.rockwool.co.uk  customersupportcentre@rockwool.co.uk  01656 868400

The world leader in timber preservation technology

Protim

®

TRIED AND TRUSTED METHOD OF PRESERVING TIMBER AGAINST FUNGAL DECAY AND INSECT ATTACK, FOR INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL TIMBER THE ORIGINAL WOOD PRESERVATIVE AND STILL THE BEST

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit: www.kopperspc.eu Email: kpc@koppers.eu Call: +44 (0)1628 486644 Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757 Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1LS ™ Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered Trademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that effect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information. Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1LS. Visit: www.kopperspc.eu, Email: kpc@koppers.eu, Call: +44 (0)1628 486644, Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757.

Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2018.

by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire

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Focus & Innovation

From high rises to new builds, Shelforce has experience with all types of social housing refurbishment and maintenance

Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce

SHELFORCE: UNDERSTANDING WHAT LOCAL AUTHORITIES WANT Shelforce – one of the leading PVCu windows and doors manufacturers – is an experienced specialist in providing PVCu windows and doors for Local Authority social housing projects. is Birmingham S helforce City Council’s chosen manufacturer and supplier and has worked on a huge number of local authority projects.

From high rises to new builds, Shelforce has experience with all types of social housing refurbishment and maintenance, and has developed a first-class reputation for providing Local Authorities with the highest quality products – finishing each project on time and within budget.

Whether a Local Authority needs casement, reversible or tilt-and-turn windows, or composite, residential or patio doors, Shelforce provide the best solution that is most costeffective for you, and more attractive and secure for your tenants.

The reason for its success is simple according to Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce. He says: “We understand the challenges Local Authorities face and what is important for both them and their tenants.

“We understand that Local Authorities are under pressure to complete maintenance and refurbishment programmes on

48

time and within budget, and as budgets are cut, they need to deliver more for less.

“They also want to provide the best service for their department and their tenants, but they want quality at a fair price. We also understand that tenants want to feel safe and secure and have pride in their home.”

Social responsibility and values Shelforce leads the way in inclusivity when it comes to training and employment opportunities in the glazing industry, with 75% of its workforce disabled.

A training facility will also be opening at its factory in Erdington to welcome students from nearby schools, including special needs schools, offering regular work experience placements.

Howard explains: “Investing in the future by helping young adults of all abilities take their first steps into the workplace is one of the keys to both our and the industry’s future growth.”

Sustainability is also a big consideration for Shelforce. It uses new profiles made from

recycled material from unwanted PVC-U frames thanks to Eurocell’s very own recycling plant.

Integrity Shelforce is highly accredited and ensures that all windows and doors surpass the standards of PAS 24. It also works closely with both landlords and tenants if required to ensure that everyone is satisfied with all work undertaken.

Value for money Shelforce’s Eurocell Eurologik profile system not only offers high performance, but huge value for money too.

The advanced six-chambered system and innovative PVC-U Thermal Inserts work together to lock in heat which maximises thermal performance making the window incredibly energy efficient. This means that a cheaper glass unit can be used, and the window will still achieve an ‘A+’ energy rating.

The slim, six-chambered outer frame costs no more than the standard Eurologik outer frame too, so there is no cost barrier to installing the highest energy efficiency-rated profiles.

 www.shelforce.com  0121 603 5262

Shelforce is highly accredited and ensures that all windows and doors surpass the standards of PAS 24

Slovenian manufacturer installs Advanced at state-of-the-art head office Advanced – a global company in the design, manufacture and supply of intelligent fire systems – has been specified in the head office of a leading European manufacturer. Situated in Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is Pirnar’s 47,000ft2, state-of-the-art facility. At the centre of the building’s active fire protection is an Advanced Axis EN fire system linked to 230 devices. The industry-leading Axis EN system, which was recently certified by FM Approvals to the EN54 standard, communicates with the site’s BMS, third party CO detection system, Access Control system and third-party Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system for the purposes of smoke control, enabling the fire services to operate smoke vents, fans and dampers in cases of emergency. Responsible for the design, installation and commissioning of the fire system was Advanced’s partner, Bildos. Mr. Damjan Birk, Managing Partner at Bildos, said: “With Pirnar’s reputation for quality and perfection we knew that only the best would be good enough. It’s for these reasons that Advanced was specified to protect their head office.”

Spirotech has gifted a SpiroCross waterconditioning unit to the Coventry Resource Centre for the Blind in support of the charity’s plans to develop a central hub, for services for the visually impaired. The AX125 deaerator, dirt separator and hydraulic balancing unit has been installed in the boiler room in the adjacent Boston Lodge, which the Centre is refurbishing with the help of volunteer tradesmen and donations from manufacturers. The Centre hopes that by bringing Boston Lodge back into use it can expand its facilities while also creating a valuable source of income by letting rooms for residential and office use. The AX125 will help keep the Lodge’s newly-refurbished heating system running smoothly and efficiently. Dave Goodyer, Area Sales Manager for Spirotech, says: “We are really pleased to support the Centre. It offers a social lifeline to the people who access its services.” The SpiroCross was installed by Wayne Kirby, Director of Kirby Plumbing and Heating.

Focus & Innovation

Spirotech supports resource centre for the blind

 www.spirotech.co.uk  info@spirotech.co.uk  0208 451 3344

 www.advancedco.com  jmountain@advancedco.com  0345 894 7000

Offsite solutions manufactures bathroom pods for the UK’s first vineyard hotel Offsite Solutions – a UK bathroom pod manufacturer – has provided high specification bathrooms for the first vineyard in the UK to open a dedicated hotel.

The hotel owners specified two pod designs from Offsite Solutions’ extensive library of bathroom solutions. This significantly reduced design time and facilitated production. The bathroom pods feature a granite counter top and shelf with underside LED lighting; a large picture frame demisting mirror with halo lighting; bath with granite surround; semi-recessed vanity basin; wall-mounted toilet; separate cubicle with overhead rainfall and hand-held showers; granite floor tiles, and contemporary push button controls to the shower and bath for ease of use.

 www.offsitesolutions.com/hotels  info@offsitesolutions.com  01278 780807

Yale sets the standard by upgrading to stainless steel Yale has announced that it is upgrading to stainless steel on all of its multipoint lock faceplates as standard, providing new user features and benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics and reduced carbon footprint.

Stainless steel is instantly associated by the consumer with its anti-corrosion properties; is more durable in transportation and fabrication and is less susceptible to surface damage and corrosion, ensuring a longer lasting and sturdier locking solution. Yale’s shift to stainless steel supports the ASSA ABLOY group’s sustainability initiatives, tackling industrial processes that are present and challenging throughout the hardware industry today.

 www.yaledws.co.uk

 info@yaledws.co.uk

 01902 366800

McAvoy constructs new Romford free school academy offsite The McAvoy Group has constructed a stunning new 630-place primary school offsite for Concordia Academy, in Romford, which was delivered as part of an £8.2m design and build contract. The 2972m2 school has created an exemplar learning environment for local children, reflecting the academy’s vision and ethos, increasing parental choice, and providing a valuable facility for the community.

Funded by the Department for Education, the school is operated by REAch2 Academy Trust – the largest primary-only academy trust in the UK. The design maximises the external play space within the site and the landscaping has created a positive external environment to reflect and support the school’s educational needs.

 www.mcavoygroup.com/education  info@mcavoygroup.com  0288 774 0372

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Focus & Innovation

Corridors refreshed with Yeoman Shield wall and door protection Yeoman Shield products were chosen as part of the refurbishment of the Northern General Hospital’s Firth C & D floor corridors. Corridor doors were fitted with Yeoman Shield Door Edge Protectors and PVCu clad glazing beads, both in a graphite colour. Contrasting mid grey Door Protection Panels were installed to both sides of the doors where vulnerable architrave and framework were also protected by Yeoman Shield products. Yeoman Shield Guardian Handrails were fitted along the hospital passageways with FalmouthEx Wall Protection Panels below.

 www.yeomanshield.com

 sallyann@yeomanshield.com

 0113 279 5854

Safety in the washroom

The SafeGuard anti-ligature washroom dispenser range

by Dudley Industries was designed collaboratively with a leading industry expert.

The range is stylish and durable whilst helping to safeguard the most vulnerable. The innovative design sees the dispenser work in-conjunction with a wall plate to securely house the dispenser and reduce the potential to attach a ligature in the gap between wall and dispenser. The recessed lock protects the contents whilst being easy to refill by the cleaning team. Finished in an attractive, brushed texture, this range will complement the most stylish of washrooms. The range contains soap, paper towel and toilet roll dispensers and a mirror.

 www.dudleyindustries.com

 sales@dudleyindustries.com

Magply boards in harmony with technical demands of HMV store conversion The elevations to a five-storey former record store on the South Coast are being finished using a proprietary render system, applied across 12mm Magply boards, secured to the refurbished fabric of the building. Given the exposed location of the building and aggressive marine climate, the specification for the exterior cladding had to be both very durable and suitable for application in all but the most challenging of weather conditions. The solution decided on by the project team features a proprietary two-coat reinforced render system – K-Rend – spray applied to the Magply panels, which were easy to cut and fix, and takes the HP12 base coat very well.

 01253 738311

 www.magply.co.uk  gmp@intpetro.com  01621 776252

Shower specification checklist for council housing

Landmark specification for Marmox Multiboard

An iconic new residential development

by Barratt London is including the use of Marmox Multiboard for its outstanding physical performance with two walls around the 20m swimming pool being lined with the moisture resistant backing board. The ground floor pool and spa is being fitted out by a specialist subcontractor consuming close to 100 of the 2500 x 600mm Multiboards for the work, as well as six boxes of dowels to secure them and 30 rolls of Marmox Jointing Tape. Marmox Multiboards are manufactured from extruded polystyrene or XPS and offer a range of positive physical characteristics, including good thermal insulation and being fully waterproof.

 www.marmox.co.uk  sales@marmox.co.uk  01634 835290

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Triton Showers lists all the things which should be considered when choosing a shower. As with any application, the needs of the occupant will of course determine product selection. Plus, one of the most important considerations when choosing a shower is the plumbing and electric supply arrangements in the property. Those in social housing will have a duty of care to provide their tenants with products which feature low running costs and are as sustainable as possible, but that still perform well and meet requirements. Having products which are quick to install and repair can be a real asset to the social housing sector. Product guarantees, servicing, maintenance and reliability could play a significant role in reducing life time costs.

 www.tritonshowers.co.uk  specification@tritonshowers.co.uk  0247 634 4441

New improved locking mechanism is the key to success Camden Windows and Doors is at the forefront of home security as it has introduced new locks to its PVCu window range. The new Inliten espagnolette locking mechanism is fitted to the vertical edge of the window and meets stringent security tests. It also comes with British Standards Institution (BSI) Kitemark approval. Roy Harrison, Camden Group Sales Manager, said: “The new locking system is taking our product up a level, as the added security it gives for the home owner as well as commercial properties is second to none. Our customers peace of mind is important to us and that’s why here at Camden Group our products are covered by a ‘Secured by Design’ licence, awarded to us by the Police Crime Prevention Initiatives Limited. Our customers can be assured they have the best products on the market today."

 www.camdengroup.co.uk

 info@camdengroup.co.uk

 0289 446 2419

To allow for safe storage of essential personal protective equipment (PPE), SafetySigns4Less has created a new range of low-cost, high-quality PPE stations, ideal for use in offices, warehouses and construction sites.

UK MANUFACTURERS OF STREET FURNITURE

POSTS - HINGED & TELESCOPIC BOLLARDS - STEEL & STAINLESS HOOPED BARRIERS CYCLE STANDS & RACKS CYCLE SHELTERS HEIGHT RESTRICTORS SWING GATES ARM BARRIERS SMOKING SHELTERS SEATING MADE IN BRITAIN

 www.safetysigns4less.co.uk  sales@safetysigns4less.co.uk  0808 169 9147

+44 (0)114 282 3474 info@timberplay.com www.timberplay.com

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH RICHTER SPIELGERÄTE TO CREATE OUTSTANDING SPACES FOR PLAY

01788 550556 info@autopa.co.uk www.autopa.co.uk

AUTOPA Limited, Cottage Leap, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3XP

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Manufactured from 2mm rigid plastic, the boards are built to withstand constant use and tough conditions. They display clear and appropriate mandatory PPE symbols and are printed to a high-quality standard, ensuring each board is easy to read and stands out.

SafetySigns4Less PPE Stations start from prices as low as £6.95.

Safety Signs 4 Less is one of the UK's leading sign specialists. Safety Signs 4 Less is part of Value Products Ltd, a registered company since July 2007. It has grown significantly over the years and gone from strength to strength.

At Safety Signs 4 Less it is important to supply fantastic customer service and top quality products.

AUTOPA

The range has been designed with the most popular PPE products in mind, such as helmets, goggles and hi-vis workwear.

Simple to install on walls, or temporary fencing, with a fixing kit and predrilled holes, the stations make PPE clearly visible and allow easy hanging after use.

PPE Safety and Hi-Vis stations feature a write-on panel allowing ownership of each hook. There is also a visitor’s station available, making it easy for visitors to see at a glance exactly what PPE is required in any given area, thus limiting risk and time spent by other employees finding the correct items.

The design of the new stations matches the SafetySigns4Less Workplace PPE Station, an informative board that provides details for employees and visitors on the purpose and types of personal protective equipment for each area of the body.

Focus & Innovation

New range of stations ensures PPE is easily accessible

2/14/2017 9:36:48 AM

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CUBE ONE SHAPE, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES FROM A FLEXIBLE, ROBUST AND HIGHLY EFFICIENT EXTERIOR LUMINAIRE The Cube LED exterior luminaire series offers a versatile solution for lighting designers and architects. The design is a study in clean lines and minimal form which takes the shape of a cube and can be mounted as either a floodlight, wall wash effect feature or on ground bollard. A wide range of beam angles and accessories allow comfortable viewing from any angle. Extremely precise beam spread optics offer the opportunity to create specific light effects.

To see further models in the range please visit our website.

www.concord-lighting.com

Tel: 0800 440 2478