Construction Update - September 2019

Page 1

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE September 2019

www.construction-update.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION SITE BROADBAND #ConnectedByTardis4G Call us to register

0800 111 44 86 www.tardis4g.uk | @tardis4g


CONSTRUCTION UPDATE www.construction-update.co.uk

CONSTRUCT I O N N O I E T PDAT C UPDATE U R T U S N 18

st 20

Augu

May 2018

CO

www.constr uction-upda te.co.uk

k .co.u date n-up o i t c stru .con www

THINK lowest c ost per p ick lowest c ost per c ut

K ASTOw in pro

K ASTOm icut

gn. i s e D y b t c Prote

UMAN LAR ORY POPU CATEG E MOST TH E RER IN TH N ES ZO U FACT EAN-OFF OF CL

K ASTOw in tube

✓ TO 25 M HIGH IN DOOR

OF STOR

Anze

bau-

emco

dd

RZ.in

7+3_

0x29

K_21

ual-U

yVis

7_Ke

EFFICIEN

T WAY

✓ HIGHLY PRAGODE AND HANDLING UC TIV E

W ITH ING CA PA BIL ITI ES TO PROC ESSING MACH IN IN VENTOR ERY Y CONT ROL AN D PROCES SING VIA YOUR HO SYST EM ST MI NI MU M 50% SP ACE SAVIN VS CONV G EN TIONA L ME THOD S IN TERFAC

✓ s stem K ASTOun at sy icompact re ce m n g ra in vit o ent g nd in emc ifyin an a spec , cle . coG rt by safe m a t a e et to kno s o ces the from et t w NEWenD tran d at secr tem e s t 2 y a IMENSIO s e 10:3 an The cr at If you are 1.17 m is g cle NS in 27.0 e n running ig c io nin an storage an r ou s t t of e cept n w has the pe D arehouse ee k d o sp rfe p ac ct s e or saw solution fo ing capacit a be r you. w w y, KASTO KASTO Lt w.kasto .com d 01908 571590 6 m sales@uk 5644 u.co .kasto.com o-ba 01952 / 2 .emc 4) www one: (+4 h p le e T 01 ige2

AS STAN DA RD,

OR OU TD OORS ✓ HIGHESTSUP TIME GU AR AN TE ✓ SAFEST, MO E ST

sawing

1

Industry News - Commercial Design - External Works & Landscaping - Tools, Equipment & PPE - Interior Design - Windows & Glazing Systems - Floors & Flooring - Safety - Heating, Ventilation & Energy Efficiency - Education - Coatings, Sealants & Paints - Sustainability & Eco Solutions - Drainge & Plumbing - Bathrooms & Washrooms - Roofing & Cladding

Stay in the Know Subscribe for Free Now


Construction Update September 2019

32 24

8

16 September 2019

www.construction-update.co.uk @ConstructionUpd 04| Industry News 10| Doors, Heating, Gas 20| Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment 26| Vehicles 34| Flooring 44| Clothing

Editorial Lucy Harris Lucy@construction-update.co.uk

Publishing Director JOdIE Little jodIE@jetdigitalmedia.co.uk 01843 595818

PUBLICATION Manager Jake Page jake@construction-update.co.uk 01843 595818


Industry News September 2019

Bauer Technologies Leverages Group Expertise to Deliver Innovative Solutions The geotechnical engineering industry is rapidly evolving and as it attempts to deliver the goals and aspirations of its clients, the drive for sustainable and economical foundations continues to gather pace.

At Bauer Technologies we constantly review what we do and how we do it to maintain our position, both globally and locally, as one of the market leaders within the geotechnical engineering industry. As an innovation-led business, we’re simply not able to do what we’ve always done anymore. We need to be able to demonstrate that we offer unique and innovative solutions, which result in best value and cause the least harm to the environment, including using less materials, producing less waste, enhancing use of recycled materials and reducing embedded carbon. Bauer Technologies is ideally placed to leverage the significant resources that exist within the BAUER Group. In the near future you will see an improved way that we carry out our works as new techniques are adopted as part of our offerings to clients.

04

Bauer Technologies is unique in the UK market in having a parent company whose major activities are the design and installation of specialist foundation works. This means our parent company understands what we do and has a significant Research & Development resource to assist us in driving the UK business forward.

You will see the introduction of techniques that, whilst new to Bauer Technologies, are offered as core competences elsewhere within the BAUER Group worldwide. These include mixed in place walls, displacement piling, ground improvement and grouting. These will complement our current offerings of large diameter bored piles, bored pile retaining walls, diaphragm walls and near-silent pile removal. In addition, it is inevitable that ever stricter sustainability requirements will be imposed upon our business, as we continue to work with sophisticated and informed clients. The current and future requirements for emissions and fuel economy will see Bauer Technologies continuing to investment in the newest, most fuel efficient, low emissions equipment, manufactured by BAUER Machinen, part of the BAUER Group. Digitalisation will play an ever increasingly important part of our lives, from the use of digital 2D and 3D models, to the capture of data on site. Recent advances in digital construction by our parent company will assist us in development of our digital capabilities.


September 2019 Industry News

The safety benefits of arc flash clothing Arc flash hazards are on the increase due to the high demand for power and electricity. Occupational health experts have found that due to this increase in energy demand, higher system voltages and available fault currents are being utilised, which in turn creates a greater risk for an arc flash event. When working with electrical equipment, it’s essential to be properly protected from heat and faults that may occur such as an arc flash. An arc flash – also referred to as a ‘flashover’ or ‘electrical arcing’ – occurs when increasing amounts of light and heat is created from an electrical explosion called an arc fault. This fault can cause deep burns that are slow to heal unless the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn when working with electrical systems. Arc flash risks where there is construction and electric works are plentiful, which is why arc flash clothing PPE will protect you as the last line of defence against injury such as heavy burns due to the thermal hazards. It is important to wear clothing that meets your workplace risk assessment standards, such as arc flash gloves, visors and balaclavas. Ranges of arc flash clothing run from low level to high level switching suits, depending on the Calorific Value tests, where the ATPV (Arc Thermal Protection Value) can be used to match the values during Arc Flash Risk Assessments. This then determines the type of PPE you need to wear. Arc clothing is made from flame resistant material such as cotton and nylon, and sometimes synthetic modacrylics, however the cotton

and nylon blend of clothing is more lightweight, making it more comfortable to wear whilst being more breathable and providing better insulation. For the most effective protection from arc flashes, use under base layers to provide extra insulation should it be necessary. The under base layer is the last line of defence in an electrical safety plan but could be essential to your safety if an electrical explosion were to occur that burned through your arc flash outerwear. High visibility, two tone and single colour arc flash outerwear are available, with high visibility clothing being ideal for outdoor or remote work with electrical exposure. Overalls, shirts, trousers and jackets are included, with double layer protection made of advanced fabrics – ideal for welders who are at risk of molten metal spatter.

When there is a higher arc flash risk where the survey warrants PPE of 29cal/cm2 and above, arc flash switching suit kits will protect engineers in those more hazardous environments. Switching suit kits are lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. By wearing arc flash clothing from Reece Safety when working with electrical risks, you greatly reduce the risk of burns and shocks, however, to ensure your safety at work, always follow your workplace health and safety and risk assessment guidelines. Working with electrical equipment is dangerous, so make sure you keep all equipment and electrical units secure when you are leaving the area unattended.

05


Industry News September 2019

IR35, the impact on construction hiring By Lawspeed Managing Director Adrian Marlowe The ability to hire temporary contractors has been particularly valuable to the construction sector for years. More recently many contractors have wanted to work through their own Personal Service Companies (PSCs), making life even easier for hirers. However there is shortly to be a change in the tax laws that affects the hire of PSCs.

P

SCs have, since 2000, under the tax rules known as IR35, been obliged to report in their annual returns to HMRC indicating whether the hire arrangement would have been employment were it not for the existence of the company in the contractual chain (‘status’). Since the level of tax paid increases if there would be employment, most companies have insisted on their contracts pointing away from an employment relationship, these contracts widely referred to as ‘IR35 friendly’. Relying on those contracts, many contractors have simply not reported that status would be employment and so have continued to take advantage of the company tax breaks.

06

Unsurprisingly HMRC has noted the consequent tax and NIC losses, concluding the problem arises as the contractor, the party who makes the ‘status’ decision,

has a considerable incentive to avoid reporting that the IR35 rules apply. At the same time a significant accountancy related industry has emerged to advise contractors how best to maximise tax breaks, justifying ‘no employment’ status decisions made by the contractor. HMRC believes the overall loss to the Exchequer will be £1.4bn a year by 2024, but there are no indications of the value

arising from the construction sector. However it has decided to make a dramatic change to the law. From April 2020 the status decision will be made by the hirer, not the contractor. Further if status is one of ‘employment’, the hirer will be liable to account to HMRC for PAYE and both employee and employer NICs on the invoice charge for work done. These rules are set to take precedence over the CIS rules and only apply where there is a PSC.


September 2019 Industry News

This radically changes the dynamic and means that HR will, wherever the decision is to hire PSC contractors, have to assess the employment status of the arrangements. Avoiding making a decision leads to liability, and regardless of the outcome, HMRC is entitled to the PAYE and NICs if the arrangement in fact is one of employment, meaning that an incorrect status decision will leave the hirer liable for these taxes. Only where a ‘no employment’ status decision is correct will a hirer safely be able to pay the contractor gross on its invoice. As liability for taxes and NICs last for 6 years this requires careful thought – how confident can a hirer be that the arrangements are not caught under these rules and do not expose it to tax risk? Using an agency does not alleviate risk or the IR35 rules in these circumstances. Although the agency makes the payments, the hirer remains responsible for the status decision and can still be liable if the tax and NICs are not correctly accounted for down the chain. Further there are obligations to pass on information as well as review requirements that add to effort. There is temptation and critically hirers should be wary of solutions offered by other third parties that involve insurance and status reviews, given that none can remove risk but simply change perception of it. Alternatives to hiring contractors using their own companies include hiring through an agency, using an umbrella company,

negotiating the rate and absorb the cost, and hiring as self employed. This last option offers no panacea. Direct hire in any form is risky if the individual is not to be employed, with rights entitlement, or treated for tax purposes as employed with PAYE and NICs following. Whilst this may be displeasing for contractors, in practice it is best for HR to be realistic as to how these rules may be applied. The three remaining options offer a safer approach. The first, using agencies regulated under the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Business Regulations 2003 (Agency Regs) to find and supply suitable workers has an arguably clearer solution to finding the right people than using online sites and social media. Whilst agencies charge a margin, that cost should be balanced against cost savings and time spent in recruiting direct. Policy here may of course affect HR personnel engaged in undertaking contractor recruitment themselves. The second option, umbrella, has mixed advantages. Umbrellas take on the employment obligations but cannot provide a work finding service, so cannot legally search for and propose workers for hire. As they pay workers net after taking their employment charge, the proposition has few obvious benefits particularly for the worker who receives a lower pay packet, no work finding service or agency Regs protection.

The third, negotiating new rates, is a mathematical exercise, but many would question why a contractor would want to retain use of the company when being paid a lower sum net of taxes. Some may, of course. Inevitably the new IR35 rules will affect the approach taken by HR to hiring policy. Whilst it has always been easier to hire a company contractor rather than an individual, the downside of doing so may now seem daunting. That is not to say that some arrangements may clearly be ‘no employment’, but just getting to that conclusion and being ‘tax risk’ free will no longer be straightforward. Many will therefore want to avoid the application of these rules, by ruling out use of PSC contractors, except where the arrangements are for key individuals required temporarily for a project under which the employment status is definitively ‘not employed’ and the right contracts are in place. Even then the process for making and relaying a status decision under the rules will still apply. For more information about IR35 and options contact Lawspeed, recruitment and employment law specialists, on 01273 236236 or see www.lawspeed.com

07


Industry News September 2019

Breaking down the new welding fume update What the updated HSE enforcement expectation means for you

T

08

he Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released a safety alert announcing an update in enforcement exceptions for all welding fume including mild steel welding fume. The update in February 2019, followed the release of new scientific evidence from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which found exposure to all welding fume can cause lung cancer and potentially link to kidney cancer.1

These include:

The findings were so severe that the change in enforcement relating to control of exposure came with immediate effect, with the Workplace Health Expert Committee endorsing reclassification of welding fume as a human carcinogen.

The reclassification of welding fume from ‘possibly carcinogenic in humans’ (Group 2B) to ‘carcinogenic in humans’ (Group 1)

Exposure to all welding fume, including mild steel, can cause lung cancer and evidence linking it to kidney cancer

Welders should be fully aware of the effects caused by exposure to welding fume including fuel gases, inert gases, gas mixtures and solvents. The short-term health effects include irritation of the throat and lungs, metal fume fever and temporary reduced lung function. However, it’s the longterm health effects of occupational asthma and lung cancer that causes the most concern.

Suitable engineering controls (typically local exhaust ventilation (LEV)) need to be provided and correctly used to control welding fume regardless of the duration – general ventilation does not achieve the necessary control and there is no known level of safe exposure

Those exposed to welding fume, including mild steel, and employers operating in all industries need to understand how the update affects them and to review their risk assessment and the level of protection currently offered to the welding workforce. The UK’s leading safety company, Arco, has collated the five key areas that workers and employers need to understand to ensure they are adhering to the HSE update and creating a safe working environment.

Adequate and suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) should be provided to control the visual residual fume risk where LEV does not adequately control exposure indoors. Appropriate RPE should also be provided for welding outdoors.

Risk assessments need to reflect the change in the expected control measures and the increased risk posed by welding fume.


Hierarchy of Control

September 2019 Industry News

There are many different measures that can be implemented to control exposure to welding fume in the workplace.

ulate fumes, erally can’t see,

Using the hierarchy of control, we have developed a list of measures in order of priority, each option should be considered starting at the top.

effects including: hroat and lungs including dryness of the coughing or a tight chest r ced lung function e.g. where breathing ot working

1.

2.

ENGINEERING CONTROLS

effects including: g lung and potentially kidney thma

Redesign the job or substitute a substance so that the hazard is removed or eliminated

SUBSTITUTION

of exposure to fume can include:

Not all options will be feasible, and, in most cases, more than one measure will be needed.

Measures

ELIMINATION

o numerous clude welding

MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS

3.

4.

Conduct a risk assessment to understand the environment, equipment and materials being used and how tasks are being performed. • Choose alternative methods • Remove surface coatings Replace the process or material that causes the hazard Use a welding technique that produces less fume • Assess the risk to health from welding fume through air monitoring

Isolate people from the hazard by removing welding fume at the source Use suitable Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)

Change the way people work, implement procedures to reduce exposure Train all workers on the correct use of LEV Implement a maintenance and testing program for LEV

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Protect workers with adequate and suitable PPE

Campaign.

17.pdf

5.

Provide RPE suitable to the task and environment Where required conduct face fit testing Implement an RPE Program • Inform, instruct and train workers on RPE • Maintain and test RPE

Source: http://www.breathefreely.org.uk/hierarchy-of-control.html

Welding Fume 5

To offer additional guidance on sufficiently protecting employees and contractors from exposure to welding fume, using the hierarchy of control2 Arco has developed a list of measures in order of priority that should be implemented to control exposure. It should be noted that not all options will be feasible, and, in most cases, more than one measure will be needed.

Additionally, Arco supplies a range of quality respiratory protective equipment including respirators, air-fed helmets and welding hoods. LEV should be the first port of call when controlling the exposure to welding fume, however, where there is obvious visual residual fume or where additional protection is required, appropriate RPE should be provided.

As well as the list of key measurements, Arco’s team of in-house experts are on hand to offer technical specialist advice on best practice within the workplace on factors such as risk assessment assistance, air monitoring, appropriate fume extraction, face fit testing and equipment servicing and maintenance.

To find out more information on the updated enforcement exceptions, download Arco’s free Welding Fume Expert Guide

1 http://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/mild-steel-welding-fume.htm?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term 2 http://www.breathefreely.org.uk/hierarchy-of-control.html

09


Doors, Heating, Gas September 2019

Do you need a Gas Cage? Gas Cage Direct is a site dedicated to providing a specialist service for the storage of gas cages. Gas Cages are now an essential requirement of the Health & Safety Executive in the workplace, especially on a construction site, public or private premises. Our cages not only offer a complete security solution from theft and damage, but they also provide the ultimate protection against the torpedo effect caused by a severed regulator or even airborne shrapnel in the unfortunate event of an explosion due to an outbreak of fire. We have a knowledgeable and dedicated sales team who are here to help you at every point in the sales process providing useful content and information. Where we cannot provide advice, we will ensure that customers know where they can find out more.

Trolleys

Design your own cage. We also off a completely bespoke service where we can design and manufacture your cage to exact specification and colour. Call us on 01293 515008 to speak to a member of the team who will be more than happy to assist you. We have a number of types of Gas Cage storage such as: • • • • • •

Mobile Gas Cages Mesh Cylinder Cages Folding Mesh Gas Cylinder Cabinets High security Gas Cylinder Lifetable Cranage Eye Cages Solid Gas Cylinder Storage

Solid Gas Cylinders

We also have a Gas Cage Wizard specifically to help you find the correct model. Simply enter the height, diameter and the number of cylinders you need to store and the Wizard will instantly the most suitable cage from our range. We have a huge amount of information also on our site to assist you further in the correct purchase of your cage. To visit our site and see our complete range and supporting information please click on the following link.

10

www.gascagedirect.co.uk

High Security Cages


September 2019 Doors, Heating, Gas

Chained Wall Rack for 2 Large Cylinders info@gascagesdirect.co.uk 01293 515008 Godzilla ZIL-GC5 •Size H1800 x W900 x D900mm •Modular design •50mm Mesh •Robust construction •Galvanised finish to sustain all weather conditions and provide maximum usability •Padlock point to secure the unit •Relevant signage attached as standard.

BUY

BUY

•Chained Wall Rack for 2 Large Cylinders – 140-270mm Diameter •Wall racks offer storage for 2 cylinders. •Holds bottle diameters of 140 – 270 mm. •Fit at two-thirds of cylinders height to ensure cylinder safety. •Supplied with pre-drilled holes for wall mounting and link retention chains. •Lead time 3-4 working days. British Made. •Weight: 3KG •Dimensions: W765x D195 mm •Finish: Blue Epoxy or Galvanised

BUY

Vectaire has three new models in their vertical whole house heat recovery range. To ensure a comfortable user experience, the Midi, Maxi and Maxi Plus are now available with advanced acoustic attenuation. They are lined with superior sound deadening materials for really low sound levels (the sound pressure levels are down to 14.4, 13.2 and 14.4 dBA respectively). Efficiency, performance and economy remain the same as the standard model. All these “AT-BY” models are complete with summer bypass and frost protection, and are commissioned via an integral LCD. Functions, including trickle, purge and boost speeds for each motor, boost speed over-run time, adjusting the time delay before the boost speed kicks in, holiday mode and night-time boost - all easily adjusted. Products are SAP PCDB Listed and manufactured in our own factory in the UK to ISO 9001. Vectaire offers a design service to ensure that units are installed is the best possible way to provide efficient, effective, low energy and low running cost ventilation. Vectaire can also organise installation, commissioning and maintenance of these products and can supply all necessary accessories. All Vectaire’s residential ventilation is detailed in the latest Low Energy Catalogue.

11


Doors, Heating, Gas September 2019

GenAir are set for a Green Apple Award for their All Weather All Electric Air Compressor GenAir a leading hirer of compressed systems and desiccant dryers, have had the environmental qualities of their emission free, All Weather All Electric Air Compressor formally recognised by the internationally respected campaigners, The Green Organisation.

T

hree senior representatives from the West Midlands based company have been invited to a glittering presentation ceremony, hosted at the Houses of Parliament on 25th November, where they will receive their award. These individually designed compressors have a working pressure of 10 –190psi with a maximum free air delivery of up to 400cfm. With a whisper quiet noise level of just 67dB (A) and protected in a fully weatherproof canopy, these brand new units are perfect for use in all situations and particularly in areas governed by emission and noise rules. There are many advantages for using an electric compressor as opposed to a diesel powered set. Because most diesel sets can only run for about 12 hours before they need refuelling, their fuel levels will require constant monitoring. This can distract an operator away from more important tasks. As Genair’s electric compressors run entirely free from fuel, the environmental

damage from diesel spillage is completely eliminated. Furthermore, a diesel engine’s filters must be replaced every 500 hours – that’s every three weeks for a project that runs for 24 hours. Electric compressors can be left alone for up to 4,000 hours before maintenance is needed, giving them a significant advantage on all major programmes. They continue to operate in extreme temperatures from minus 25º to plus 50Cº and their built-in after cooler and water separator will eliminate up to 70% of moisture. This will help with delivering superior air quality for improved performance. Commenting on this accolade, GenAir’s Managing Director, David Timmins said, “Naturally, we are honoured to receive this award. Emission elimination and compliance with NRMM regulations have been the driving factor in developing these compressors. To have them officially acknowledged as a sustainable product is extremely satisfying.”

12

The Green Apple Awards began in 1994 and have become established as the country’s major


September 2019 Doors, Heating, Gas

recognition for environmental endeavour among companies, councils, communities and countries. The Green Organisation is an international, independent, non-political, non-profit environment group dedicated to recognising, rewarding and promoting environmental best practice around the world. The Green Apple Awards are supported by the Environment Agency, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, the Chartered Institution for Wastes Management and other independent bodies.

Incorporated in April 2007, Genair Limited is independently owned and a leading rental specialist of compressed air systems in the UK. They operate from three strategically placed depots; Motherwell, Slough and in the West Midlands. Registered to ISO 9001, the Genair management team has a collective 140 years’ experience in the compressed air markets, with fully qualified service technicians and ADR drivers. They supply equipment extensively throughout the UK and overseas.

13


Doors, Heating & Gas September 2019

Profab Access Ahead of the Curve with Fire Testing Established in 2001, Profab Access Ltd is a leading UK manufacturer of wall and ceiling access panels and riser doors. The company employs a team of 71 and operates from a 46,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and distribution facility in Atherstone, Warwickshire. All aspects of the design and manufacturing process are carried out onsite. Profab has been working with the global testing, inspection and certification company, Warrington Fire, for several years and has the CERTIFIRE independent third party certification for its 4000 Series riser doors, 8000 Series access panels

14

for tiled walls, 1000 Series access panels and steel doors. The 4000 and 8000 Series ranges are available with up to a 4 hour CERTIFIRE rating. Since the Grenfell Tower fire the issue of fire safety has dominated the construction sector. Following the Hackitt Review and the subsequent Government Implementation Plan, published in December 2018, four key areas were highlighted for improvement, including “Clearer standards and guidance, and product safety�.


September 2019 Doors, Heating, Gas James Fisher, Managing Director of Access 360, comments, “From our perspective actions speak louder than words. In the spirit of the Hackitt Review we wanted to ‘start living the cultural shift’ and to lead the industry by investing in testing and certification because we believe it’s the right thing to do and not just because it’s a legal requirement.” “Fire testing from both sides is a significant investment on our part, in terms of time and cost. It takes nearly twice as long to test from both sides, requires two doors to be tested on opposite sides and doubles the cost of the testing and certification process. The benefit to our customers is that they can have absolute confidence that when they specify a Profab fire rated riser door its performance has been tested and independently verified above and beyond what is legally required.” “We want all our customers to have this level of peace of mind and it is our intention to conduct fire testing from both sides on all the products in the Profab range. Testing on the 1000 Series access panels is already under way.”

Warrington Fire, now a part of the Element Group, is a UKAS accredited laboratory which specialises in fire resistance testing for passive fire protection products. The testing process is stringent, from start to finish. The testing personnel from Warrington Fire come to the Profab Access manufacturing facility to personally select the riser doors they wish to test. Both the doors and frames are signed by the testers to ensure the correct products are delivered to them for testing. Once at the laboratory the riser doors are tested to BS EN 16341:2014+A1:2018, the standard for fire resistance and smoke control. The testing process involves the riser doors being held in a rig in front of a kiln. The size of the rig, 3 metres high by 3 metres wide, enables testing of single, double or triple riser doors to be carried out. The riser doors are tested to measure the integrity of the door and frame when subjected to fire. The process involves ensuring that flaming cannot occur on the unexposed face of the door for longer than 10 seconds and that a 25 mm rod cannot be passed

Profab Access Ltd, part of the Access 360 portfolio, is prioritising fire safety in buildings with the introduction of fire testing for both sides of its 4000 Series riser door range. through the specimen. The transfer of radiant heat though the surface of the doors is also measured. Limiting the transmission of heat from one side of the door to the other to protect building occupants so they can safely exit the building is paramount. Amendments have already been made to the Building Regulations Approved Document B (Fire Safety), notably the ban on combustible cladding on all new buildings over 18 metres in height. Further changes are expected as a result of the call for evidence for the technical review of Approved

Document B, which closed in March. By taking the lead in fire testing both sides of the 4000 Series riser doors Profab Access is future proofing the products being used in the construction sector. When it comes to riser doors building professionals now have the opportunity to specify products that exceed the legal requirements. To find out more about the range of fire rated products available from Profab Access please visit www.profabaccess.com or call the Technical team on 01827 719051.

15


Doors, Heating, Gas September 2019

New BBC HQ proves the Kawneer door to Cardiff’s heart Award-winning building features Kawneer curtain walling and debuts a new door. Two types of curtain walling, and entrance doors, by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer, including the first use in the UK of a new severe duty welded door, feature on an award-winning building at the heart of the dynamic redevelopment of Cardiff’s Central Square. Kawneer’s AA®100 capped and zone-drained aluminium curtain wall, complemented by its SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) and mullion-drained sister product, have been used throughout the glittering façade of the striking new headquarters building for BBC Cymru at Three Central Square. They in turn are complemented by thermally-superior AA®720 doors and the new dual colour AA®190 TB severe duty welded doors with classleading thermal performance that

16

is so robust they are offered with a lifetime guarantee. The project, designed by Foster + Partners and built by main contractor ISG Construction for developer Rightacres Property, won a 2019 RICS Wales award for Design Through Innovation, and it is easy to see why. Set over four floors, the building is the new home for 1,200 BBC Cymru staff and includes 16,292m2 of curtain walling and 3,572m2 of precast stone panels over 150,000ft2 of office, studio and production space. The 2,000-tonne steel frame is an essential design feature, as part of the design’s focus on the building’s visibility. It is left exposed underneath a glass roof garden canopy supported by 10 28m-high supporting steel columns, with the frame’s

connections forming a diamond shape in the centre. The building is designed to be open and welcoming – visitors can access the ground floor and look up through a full-height atrium into the working spaces above, as well as into a new café facing the square. The design also establishes a sense of openness and transparency between different departments to create new opportunities for collaboration and interaction. The heart of the headquarters is a 4,000m2 ‘hub’ which extends across three linked levels and incorporates studios, offices and production facilities. The scheme includes a sheltered garden on the hub’s roof which is connected to a restaurant and provides a unique venue for filming as well as a valuable social amenity for staff. The project targeted BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ environmental accreditation with strategies such as chilled beams, locally-sourced and recycled materials, and an efficient envelope. Mechanical systems have


September 2019 Doors, Heating, Gas

been carefully integrated to create a highly flexible interior which can anticipate and respond to changing technologies. Adam Newburn, partner at Foster + Partners, said: “The Kawneer system was proposed by the façade contractor, Dudley’s Aluminium. We looked at the product closely and found that it met the performance requirements of the design.” The glazed elements are fundamental to Foster’s design which was to have large-format curtain glazing so the Kawneer products were instrumental in allowing that to happen. They met the aesthetic and performance intent of the design, enabling the design intent to shine through and integrating seamlessly with the rest of the façade. Located opposite Cardiff Central railway station, the project is situated on the site of the former bus station. Works on Plots 1, 2, 3 and 6 have completed, or are near completion, and works on Plot 4 are to start soon, and this will create a dynamic area known as Central Square.

The innovative spirit of the project was defined by the BBC’s vision to be the most creative organisation in the world, its commitment to create genuine public engagement and the idea to create an open and attractive workplace. Broadcasting studios usually require a controlled environment for operations, yet the building manages to achieve the contrasting aims of the project to open up to the public as well as be a world-class broadcasting hub for BBC Cymru. RICS judges said the project created a dynamic principal building for the Central Square redevelopment and that the team behind it had created a “spectacular” commercial, pre-let building. Historically, Central Square was the site of the planned settlement of Temperance Town, a 19th Century inner-city suburb, which was demolished to make way for Cardiff bus station which opened in 1954, and office buildings. For many years the area suffered from a lack of sustained investment.

Despite its significant public transport attributes, it failed to deliver high levels of economic activity and provided an underwhelming and unwelcoming arrival for many visitors. The case for regeneration of the site was made because the existing under-development was hindering Cardiff’s potential. Cardiff’s rapidly changing skyline reflects the capital’s huge economic growth over the past 10 years. Central Square is within the Central Cardiff Enterprise Zone which is already home to several financial and professional service businesses. One of the primary aims of the project was to give back to the city and the relocation of BBC Cymru from Broadcasting House in Llandaff acted as a catalyst for change, creating the opportunity to regenerate the historic site and unlock the heart to the city.

17


September 2019

How are schools becoming eco-friendlier with modular construction? MTX Education, like the schools we serve, is an organisation that is conscious of the future. We understand the importance of protecting the planet, so there will be a world that children can enjoy. Engineers in the modular construction sector are continually innovating, striving to minimise the impacts of our buildings now and with continued use.

This is not just a matter of climate change. In a school, when expanding the building, the quality of the air being breathed by students is vitally important. Therefore, with much of the work being completed offsite, away from young lungs, the better for your students.

Here we explore the ways modular construction is an ecologically friendly option.

Reduce: traditional construction methods expose materials to the weather during construction. This means there is natural wastage of resources, as well as a need for remediation work that requires more materials. In contrast, modular constructors can tightly control the necessary resources, therefore reducing the amount of nonrenewable materials used.

Lower carbon emissions Traditional construction methods are responsible for high levels of carbon emissions due first to the transportation of materials to and from the site. This not only impacts air-quality at the level where our children breathe but also sends harmful chemicals into the atmosphere.

18

90% of modular construction is completed within a factory setting. The standardised materials can be ordered and supplied in bulk and stored on site. All the craftsmen working on your building will work within this same factory, and your school will be passed along the conveyor belt. Ultimately, this means there is less traffic too and from the site.

Reduce, recycle and reuse This mantra for effective management of resources for the environment is at the heart of modular construction.

Recycle: modular construction engineers work to make the building they design as eco-friendly as possible. Therefore, the methods employed include recycled materials. Recycling technology now allows for recycled steel, wood and glass, the three major components of a modular building. It is unlikely that every part of your modular build can come from recycled material, but it is possible to use a lot more than traditional construction methods.


September 2019 Reuse: once a modular building has served its purpose, it is easy to deconstruct. You can not only move the building to a new site if required, but you can also take the components and seek to reuse them rather than waste them. Contrast this with traditional construction, where demolition not only destroys the resources used to create the building but also sends harmful dust and fumes into the atmosphere. For a school business manager, someone looking to sell a project to governors, parents and local planning officers, the reduce, recycle and reuse credentials of the modular building will be essential.

Airtight and Energy Efficient First, control of the built environment allows modular construction to use significantly less energy. The buildings are not only quicker to construct, therefore more efficient, but also produced in a tightly controlled factory. The build is generally 50% faster than traditional builds, and the cost of energy is consequently proportionally lower. Second, the buildings are designed to be as energy efficient as possible. The systems include energyefficient glass, geothermal systems, solar panels and more. However, more essential to the eco-

friendly credentials is the module building is airtight. Traditional construction cannot control the conditions the materials are used within as well and are therefore subject to gaps and cracks that create drafts. When a building is airtight, it heats up quickly, requiring less energy, and then retains this heat for longer. The design of the builds also focuses on allowing in more natural light, therefore reducing the need for electricity. The reduced costs in the long term for users is considerable. The cost-benefit analysis for modular build makes sense. You will end up saving money. More importantly, you will be showing a commitment to save the planet.

Summary Modular construction and education make logical partners. Both sectors are interested in the future of our children. Engineering innovation in modular design is continually evolving to reduce the environmental footprint of the buildings. Therefore, they are working to sustain the planet for our children. This is the same concern of schools. Decisions made by leaders in education are always focused on delivering the best outcomes for the future lives of children. Choosing an eco-friendly build method, therefore, makes complete sense.

19


Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment September 2019

#10

TIPS TO GIVE CUSTOMERS A USEABLE, ACCESSIBLE TOILET

The potential risk of flushing £0000s down the toilet can now be avoided for venues wanting to open their doors to disabled customers. Closomat, the country’s leading supplier and installer of Changing Places assisted accessible toilets, has produced a quick reference checklist to help all involved in the design and provision of the facilities get it right. The guide is available for free download from the company’s website www.closomat.co.uk, via the resources/ away from home tabs. “Working as closely with those that need Changing Places toilets as we do, we get to hear about the spectrum of problems they encounter, even though a venue has tried to open its doors to them,” explains Kelvin Grimes, Closomat away from home project manager. “It can be something as simple as the toilet is not signed, so they can’t even find it. It can be something as fundamental as insufficient ceiling height to use the hoist to lift their loved one from a wheelchair, or the hoist not reaching crucial fixtures such as the WC!

20


September 2019 Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment

“Big or small, the issues are enough to prevent those that need Changing Places being able to use the facilities that are available. That means the venue has wasted the capital investment. Hopefully our guide will help get it right going forward, so the venues benefit from their investment, and users benefit from having a toilet they CAN use.” Changing Places toilets are an additional provision over and above conventional wheelchairaccessible toilets. Whilst currently a ‘desirable’ option, there may soon be legislative changes making their provision compulsory(1). Changing Places provide more space and equipment, to

enable people who need help to deal with their intimate hygiene when away from home to do so in an appropriate environment (2). Closomat was the original sponsor of the campaign for Changing Places when it began over a decade ago, and is today the recognised #1 for their supply, install, commissioning and subsequent service & maintenance of the equipment it supplies; its website is the ‘go to’ resource for support information, featuring typical layouts, ‘fly through’ video, CAD blocks, NBS specification clauses, and useful guidance including the ‘top tips’, case studies, and white papers. 5

Changing PlaCes toP tiPs

4

10 2

a provider’s ‘top 10’ for a successful, compliant, useable Changing Places toilet.

1

1. Ensure there is appropriate water supplyingress, drainage and associated connected pipework to where needed for WC, washbasin, shower

3

8

6

7

2. Ensure there is an appropriate electrical supply, with associated spurs, connection outlets where needed for washbasin, shower (and wash & dry WC if included) 3. Changing bench: is the wall strong enough to support the load (200kg)? If not, then a mobile, floor-standing version is more suitable

9

4. Full room cover overhead track hoist: is the ceiling strong enough to bear the load (200kg)? If not, a gantry version using slimline, discreet legs provides the necessary structural support for the hoist. NB the hoist must at least offer sufficient coverage to easily position users over the changing bench, over the WC 5. Ceiling height: 2.4m minimum, to enable adequate space to lift someone from a wheelchair, and transfer them to the equipment, at a height that the equipment can then be used. 6. Height-adjustable wash basin: ensure connections are appropriately concealed behind protective covers to avoid risk of snagging, entrapment 7. Mirror: a “must have” fixture, ideally full length, but at least fixed at a height where people, ambulant or in a wheelchair, can use it 8. Towel dispenser: fixed at a height suitable for access by ambulant people and those in a wheelchair

9. WC: peninsular, to allow transfer, access from either side (at least 1m from the nearest wall to the centre of the WC) NB BS8300:2018 notes that a wash & dry toilet in place of a conventional WC adds dignity and independence for users

The Closomat solution: We are the only specialist manufacturer and supplier of accessible bathroom/toilet equipment to offer clients a complete, compliant project management service.

10. Privacy screen: to provide discretion for users of the changing bench and/or WC

Fully CDM (Construction Design & Management) 2015 compliant, our service gives you the peace of mind that our element of your project will be executed in an efficient, professional and timely manner, to all relevant Standards and Regulations.

For full details of the specification for a Changing Places toilet facility: https://www.closomat.co.uk/changing-places/changing-places.html

Our service encompasses design advice site survey, installation, and commissioning.

The small print: the above ‘top ten tips’ are guidance only, offered as a result of our extensive experience in supplying and installing scores of Changing Places and assisted accessible toilets across the UK. All relevant permissions need to be obtained, and Building Regulations followed. We would also recommend appropriate signage on the door and around your facility: if people don’t know you have it, how can they find it, use it?

If required, we can also offer subsequent service, repair and maintenance: see our service page for further details.

www.closomat.co.uk

Tel: 0800 374 076

Email: info@clos-o-mat.com

21


Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment September 2019

Plumb Inn to unveil their new Enfield IPG flagship store The IPG, the largest and fastest growing membership group for independent plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists, has undertaken a very special project with some of their members, with the unveiling of three IPG Flagship stores.

B

etween the 2nd – 6th September, Plumb Inn, the plumbing, heating and bathroom specialist based in Enfield, will be revealing a brand-new look– as they become one of the first to join forces with The IPG to open a leading store! Plumb Inn was founded in 2010 by lifelong friends Ray Andes and Kevin O’Shea, opening with just three employees before quickly expanding to three London branches, and a workforce of 16. Heavily involved in the local community themselves, they proudly support the IPG’s charity partner Missing People to help locate missing children in the area, as well as having recently supported Brimsdown Primary School. Plumb Inn are excited to launch their flagship store and open the doors to their

22

refurbished site where they will be inviting both new and existing customers, as well as members of the local community, to be one of the very first to glimpse their new look. Visitors to the store during the launch will also be in with a chance to snap up some great offers, plus a goody bag, which they will be giving away every day of the launch. The launch will also be accompanied by some VIP guests, including the Mayor of Enfield who will be in attendance to support one of our great British independent retailers. Pies and refreshments will be provided, with key suppliers, local and trade press also expected to attend. Ray Andes, Managing Director at Plumb Inn, said: “Plumb Inn are now not just a member, we have joined the IPG family and together we


September 2019 Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment

can only become stronger. We have a new look trade counter and showroom, a new look website and an opportunity to be involved in marketing initiatives that as an independent merchant we could not achieve on our own. The IPG’s support of the independent sector will be pivotal to the development and growth of our business and our team are all looking forward to an exciting future” Nike Lovell, Head of Marking at The IPG, said: “The next few weeks are set to be incredibly exciting for our members, and us at The IPG. The launch of our flagship stores is something that we’ve been working on together for some months now, so to see it all come together – is incredible! For me, these flagship stores represent everything that we at The IPG stand for – and that is to support local, independent plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists across the

UK. I hope the grand launch week we have planned for Plumb Inn will encourage the local Enfield community to get involved, and truly get behind their own local independent!” Plumb Inn’s store launch will follow closely behind Newline Plumbing & Heating Supplies, who will open their flagship store on 27 August in Kingswinford. A third store will open in October at Gas & Plumb Bits, based in New Milton. Pop down to Plumb Inn’s Enfield branch between the 2nd – 6th September to show your support for this local independent merchant, and for a chance to win one of their goody bags! You can find out more about The IPG by visiting the brand-new website, www.the-ipg.co.uk. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

23


Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment September 2019

Baufritz Germany-based Baufritz can date its origins back to the 1890s and today over 115 years of experience and science make their way into each of its homes, helping cement its reputation as one of the most innovative eco-home building companies in Europe. This high-standing within the marketplace is apparent from its successful entry into the UK sector in 2006, as well as the wide-ranging award recognition it has received over the years, including its recent 2019 Infrastructure Award from Build Magazine. A major part of Baufritz’s success is based on its ability to deliver all aspects of its clients’ building projects. It starts by taking some of the conceptual ideas and developing these into architectural designs. The company supports its clients throughout the planning process using its in-house architectural teams. Once planning is approved, Baufritz is able to manufacture and erect the building using its own manufacturing and construction teams. The company is therefore able to deliver either a fully turnkey solution managing all aspects of the client’s construction or just the shell made up of walls and roof, with the client being responsible for the internal fit-out.

24

Baufritz is always pushing the boundaries of innovation and design. Its in-house design team is looking to continuously develop its house designs, materials and manufacturing methods.

The company currently has 400 employees, with a dedicated UK team of eight based at Girton near Cambridge. It provides sustainable house support advising on photovoltaics, heat source pumps, low energy buildings supporting the creation of carbon neutral and energy neutral houses. The way Baufritz designs and builds means that no two of its houses are the same. It has developed its six-step process that allows customers to control their house building journey and the company believes this is a continuous work in progress as it is always looking for new innovative ways of delivering its houses. At its heart Baufritz is a family company; it has grandparents, parents and grandchildren all working in its factory to deliver quality houses. It strongly believes in supporting the family and has a crèche onsite to help parents return to work after parental leave.


September 2019 Plumbing, Building Materials, Equipment

It strongly believes that a happy and content employee will be motivated to create the highest quality finished product. Thanks to the strength of its offering, Baufritz’s customer base comes from a wide variety of backgrounds. This includes young families building compact welldesigned dwellings needed to meet the needs of a growing family, while at the other end of the spectrum it has clients wishing to downsize for retirement and construct easy to maintain houses suitable for old age. It also has a number of clients creating grand luxurious mansion buildings that Baufritz has become known for, while it can also provide much smaller functional designs to meet specific size and budgetary requirements. If there is one common theme motivating all of Baufritz’s clients, it is a desire to construct sustainable, natural, high quality prefabricated houses manufactured to a very high standard. Most of its clients understand the benefits in relationship to build quality and speed of construction one finds from a prefabricated house. The fact that all its houses are constructed from natural materials and do not contain any harmful chemicals has been a significant driver behind its success. With the UK having woken up to the benefits of using prefabrication to deliver modern houses, and as building standards become stricter in relation to energy efficiency and sustainability, Baufritz is in an

increasingly advantageous position within the marketplace to meet the growing demand. Having been manufacturing for over 115 years and seen seen many economic cycles in this time, the company believes in the long run there is demand for sustainable energy efficient prefabricated buildings in the UK. As a German manufacturer that exports to Britain, Baufritz has obviously been concerned about the nature of the future relationship between the UK and the EU, but given the growing demand for its offering, the company is confident that the British market will continue to provide plenty of opportunities for further expansion in the years ahead. At the same time, it will continue pushing forward with further investment in technology to reduce manufacturing cost and increase level of prefabrication, reduce travel, CO2 emissions and the amount of on-site work; while also utilising more local resources for professional services and construction work, training local skilled staff and controlling building costs to ensure competitive rates.

To watch the video click here

www.baufritz.com/uk

25


Vehicles September 2019

Precon Products takes a sideways look at safety with new Mercedes-Benz Econic A heightened focus on the health and safety of truck drivers delivering to construction sites in London prompted Precon Products to develop an innovative dropside body concept based on a Mercedes-Benz Econic chassis.

T

he fast-growing company’s new 26-tonner is fitted with hydraulically operated walkways which run the full length of its bed and are accessed via fold-out steps. As a result, the driver does not have to clamber over the back to reach the load. Precon Products, which has just moved the short distance from its

26

previous base to a purpose-built headquarters on a four-acre site in Bury St Edmunds, took advantage of competitive funding support from Mercedes-Benz Finance to acquire its first truck.

Orwell Truck & Van. It is powered by a high-torque, 7.7-litre straightsix engine which generates 260 kW (354 hp) and drives through a 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmission.

Chosen primarily for its low-entry cab and impeccable Direct Vision safety credentials, the Econic 2635 L was supplied by East Anglia Dealer

The six-wheeler’s body was designed and built by ZJB Engineering, of Wisbech. Launched in June 2018 by Zennon Blackburn,


September 2019 Vehicles who has an 18-year track record in the industry, the firm is already winning a reputation for its engineering capability. Deployment of one or both of the 500 mm-wide walkways automatically activates strobe lights fitted beneath the platform at both ends. A fall arrest system means the dropsides are always raised when the walkways are in use. The truck is also equipped to FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) Gold standard with a full complement of safety cameras and side scanners. Finished in a distinctive livery applied by DJ Elbury & Son, also of Wisbech, it is being inspected and maintained under a Mercedes-Benz Complete Service Contract at Orwell Truck & Van’s Newmarket workshop. Precon Products was established in 2008, and is now a £44-million turnover business, supplying a comprehensive range of products, tools, and accessories to the construction and building sectors nationwide. It also has depots in Northamptonshire, South Yorkshire, and Surrey. Precon Products has supported developers working on a number of high-profile developments in London, including The Shard, and the new US Embassy. The company continues to rely on three haulage contractors to fulfil its transport commitments – between them they operate a fleet of 30 vehicles, all of which wear Precon Products’ colours.

“However, we’re employing a driver and running the Econic ourselves,” explained Managing Director Mike Philpot. “It’s all multi-drop work in London, which means that drivers often have to access the back of the truck to move products and materials around, and get them off. “These days customers insist that vehicles must have side rails so no-one falls, which is great from a health and safety perspective. But if the truck is fully loaded there’s no room for the driver, so he ends up clambering over everything. That’s potentially dangerous in itself, and understandably the sites don’t like it. “I therefore came up with the idea of adding walkways down the sides of the vehicle, which the driver can deploy at the touch of a button when he arrives on a site. He can then do whatever he needs to do, before getting off the back of the truck without risk of injury.” Mr Philpot continued: “I’m not an engineer, so sat down with the bodybuilder and together we came

up with a plan. There are other vehicles out there with variations of our walkway which drivers have to pull out manually. But when you’re on multi-drop deliveries time is of the essence, and to be quick you need an automatic solution. The truck is a prototype but the initial feedback from customers who’ve seen it has been very encouraging. If it works as we hope it will, then it could be a game-changer.” Commenting on his choice of the Econic chassis, Mr Philpot added: “Mercedes-Benz trucks are widely recognised as the best on the market when it comes to reliability and whole-life costs. “The Econic is also ideally suited to operation on London’s congested streets in terms of safety. Its deep, wraparound windscreen and fullheight glazed side door contributes to excellent all-round visibility. The fact that the driver sits so much lower than he would in a conventional truck also allows him to make direct eye contact with vulnerable road users, especially cyclists, at junctions and in traffic.” Although Precon Products has not previously operated its own trucks, it uses a trio of 3.5-tonne Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis cabs supplied by Orwell Truck & Van and fitted with dropside bodies to make urgent, same-day deliveries. “The Dealer provides an excellent service, and its Truck Sales Executive Chris Benefer was very helpful when we came to order the Econic,” added Mr Philpot. www.preconproducts.co.uk

27


Vehicles September 2019

Legal speed limits versus safe speeds The need for better measures Andy Walters, Managing Director of vehicle tracking provider, Quartix, describes how to redefine speed limits for your fleet and improve safety out on the roads. The idea behind his unique research received the 2018 Queens Award for Enterprise in Innovation

D

rivers at every construction company travel considerable distances to reach sites every day, and a strong vehicle tracking system can go a long way to encourage safer driving habits. The majority of UK road deaths happen on rural roads despite the relatively low volume of traffic they carry. Accidents on these rural roads, however, often occur at speeds below the National Speed Limit, which raises the question - what is a safe speed and how can we define it for each road we travel on?

A green score is awarded for any speed below the mean. Speeds ranking above 75% are marked in red and identified as dangerous. Our customers find that using this insight not only addresses the most significant danger that their drivers face, but also: • reduces the number of accidents by 5-20% • reduces liability and costs of accidents by 10% • reduces fuel costs by 25%

Safe speeds: How far below the legal limit are they? On single carriageways, research show that only 8% of road users exceed the 60mph limit. With far fewer cases of speeding seen on the roads with the highest fatality rates, the need for a stronger, more robust safety measure than the legal speed limit was a clear focus for us at Quartix. The appropriate speed for any given road depends on its context, layout, width, surface, contour, conditions and time of day. A safe speed for most of a typical rural road is not 60mph, as frequent bends will require you to slow down.

The Quartix Solution The Quartix vehicle tracking system has been installed in over 500,000 vehicles and helps a wide range of businesses improve productivity, cut costs and save on fuel every day. Providing commercial fleet tracking for cars, trucks, coaches and vans throughout the UK, US and France, the system offers a host of valuable features for fleet managers. Evidence suggests a driver’s risk of suffering an accident increases rapidly as they deviate above the average speed of moving vehicles on a specific stretch of road. Putting the theory into practice: Improving your safety metrics

28

Our SafeSpeed Database uses real traffic data to determine a more appropriate benchmark for safety. We collect over 30 million data points each day from 100,000 drivers and then match these against 2 million sections of UK roads.

Quartix offers tiered packages to help businesses identify their safest drivers, make sense of mileage and fuel costs and reduce admin. Get in touch to discuss the best option for your business on 01686 806 663 or enquiries@quartix.net.


Vehicle tracking that works for you

Find out just how much you can save with Quartix

No auto-renewal | Free mobile app | 1st class customer service

Visit quartix.net or call 01686 807 607 to schedule a free demo


September 2019

Welcoming over 200 exhibitors with a vast collection of industryleading products and services, LANDSCAPE 2019 is the trade event you will not want to miss – and the best part is, it’s all FREE! ANDSCAPE - the UK’s premier event for the industry returns to Battersea Park in central London on Tuesday 17th & Wednesday 18th of September 2019.

L

The landscaping industry’s leading trade event is dedicated to products, services and innovation for the design, build and management of exterior and interior landscape projects, with an array of over 200 new and returning exhibitors all under one roof! LANDSCAPE is dedicated to bringing the industry together by introducing its visitors to the latest products, services and techniques necessary to design, build and maintain prestigious and award-winning interior or exterior landscaping projects all over the world. We are proud to say that 86% of our visitors are very likely to recommend and use an exhibitor for a future project, and the exhibitor list continues to go from strength-to-strength yearon-year. Our extensive exhibitor list ensures that when we say that there is “something for everyone”, we really do mean it!

30

Between the LANDSCAPE exhibitors there are products and services for every aspect of the design and build process spanning from CAD systems and tools to plants and stone. LANDSCAPE features an endless selection of products that are available to source, exhibitors include manufacturers and suppliers of everything from living plants, trees and turf, vases, pots and flag stones to furniture and conservatories, water features and sundials. Our exhibitors also provide architectural iron work, planters, sheds, living roofs and walls, sculptures, soil, plants and paving as well as lighting, heating, trees and tools. Also, the LANDSCAPE Show is thrilled to be bringing back the Best in Show competition for another year! We’re giving our exhibitors this fantastic opportunity to highlight a particular product from their innovative ranges to showcase to our visitors. Exhibitors who have entered will be in the running to be awarded ‘Best in Show’ for 2019! The shortlisted finalists will be displayed at the show with the winner of the competition

being announced at 4pm on the Wednesday! It’s down to our visitors to decide the winner so come along to LANDSCAPE to look through the shortlisted products and vote for your favourite! Be sure to visit the LANDSCAPE website to check out our preview magazine, which gives you an insight into the fantastic you can meet and more of the products you can source at the landscaping industry’s most valuable event this September. The LANDSCAPE Show will be open from 10am-6pm on Tuesday the 17th September, and 10am-5pm on Wednesday 18th September 2019. Both the exhibition and all seminar sessions are free to attend. To register for your free tickets to attend the show, simply visit our registration page at

www.landscapeshow.co.uk/register

Further information can be found online: Website: www.landscapeshow.co.uk Email: info@landscapeshow.co.uk Phone: +44 (0)20 7821 8221 Twitter: @LandscapeEvent #LANDSCAPE2019 Instagram: @Landscape.show #LANDSCAPE2019


Landscape THE INDUS T RY TR ADE SH O W

Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 September 2019

The trade event dedicated to bringing the landscape industry together by introducing its visitors to the latest products, services and techniques.

LANDSCAPE exhibitors include manufacturers and suppliers of everything from vases, pots and flag stones to furniture and conservatories, water features and sundials. Our exhibitors provide architectural iron work, planters, sheds, turf, sculpture, soil, plants and paving as well as lighting, heating, trees and tools.

Our international visitors include Garden Designers, Landscape Designers & Contractors, Architects, Facilities Managers, Groundsmen & Parks Officers, Event Florists, Creative Directors, Garden Centres, Contract Gardeners, Hotels and Interior Designers.

Register for your free tickets at www.landscapeshow.co.uk/register

+44 (0)20 7821 8221

landscapeshow.co.uk

@LandscapeEvent #Landscape2019

landscape.show


Flooring September 2019

New Studded Rubber Flooring to the trusted range of products from First Mats The perfect flooring option for areas where extra grip or protection is required, First Mats are delighted to now offer Studded Rubber Flooring.

I

ndustry requirements and customer feedback have inspired First Mats to add a new type of safety flooring to their already comprehensive range of rubber matting. As specialist providers of industrial health and safety mats; this addition is a welcome, affordable option for those seeking to install a safe and protective floor surface in their building. Studded Rubber Flooring offers users a durable option for new and old buildings alike. Firstly, this style of protective flooring is an excellent option to either protect a floor from damage or replace the surface of an already damaged floor. This leads to great cost savings, by extending the lifetime of the base layer of the floor or offering a quick and cheap alternative to fully refurbishing or replacing a damaged floor. Secondly, this mat offers a reliable method for increasing the grip of any surface. This is of paramount importance in work areas where users are in danger of slips and falls. The matting is made from natural rubber materials and adopts a coin-shaped or studded pattern to increase traction and limit the chance of slips. With fantastic wear and slip resistance, as well as resistance against mild acids and alkaline, this is a smart option for those that need a durable and costeffective floor surface. This product is perfect for the majority of commercial situations, including throughout walkways, corridors, stairwells and workshop floors. Although not recommended for use in areas where oils are used, First Mats offer some excellent alternatives when this is the case.

32


September 2019 Flooring

“The addition of Studded Rubber Flooring to our range represents our first step into the flooring market. We want to be able to cater for all of the flooring needs of our customers, to ultimately provide them with a better experience and service.” - Richard O’Connor. Marketing & Strategy Director, First Mats. With flexibility in mind, the new First Mats Studded Rubber Flooring is available in two thicknesses (3mm & 4.5mm), can be cut to custom lengths and can be purchased in either black or grey colours. First Mats pride themselves on offering excellent customer support and impartial advice. To help their customers understand whether Studded Rubber Flooring is the best option for their unique situation, free samples are available upon request. You can find more information and specifications on the Studded Rubber Flooring Rolls on the product page: Studded Rubber Flooring

33


World Beating Adhesive Technology

For Every Flooring

Installation

THE UK’S LEADING MANUFACTURER OF FLOORING ADHESIVES F. Ball’s specialist range of industry leading flooring adhesives provides solutions for every installation from temperature extremes with the highly innovative Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS to adhesive technology for textile, resilient and wood flooring. F. Ball has adhesive recommendations for over 5000 floorcoverings from 200 leading floorcovering manufacturers. F. Ball is renowned for quality, innovation and technical know how. For videos and indepth technical information visit our website at www.f-ball.co.uk

GREAT BRITISH INNOVATION

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. Tel: 01538 361 633 • email: mail@f-ball.co.uk • web: www.f-ball.co.uk Cheddleton, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 7RS, UK


SO QUIET WE HAD TO SHOUT ABOUT IT Ultra Quiet Ecodan The NEW LOW NOISE Air Source Heat Pump • An 8 dB(A) drop in sound output • Virtually eliminates the need for planning permission • Allows installation under Permitted Development

ultraquietecodan.co.uk

Heat Pump Product of the Year (Ultra Quiet Ecodan)

Domestic HVAC Product of the Year – Heating Units

Search #ultraquietecodan


NINE-STOREY YMCA CAMPUS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS AS SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURAL MILESTONE MET WORK at the £19 million YMCA campus in Milton Keynes has now reached roof level. Milton Keynes has welcomed the creation of the 199-apartment scheme. The flagship project will provide crucial housing, support, training and employment opportunities to local young people, creating much-needed conference room facilities and training spaces for local businesses. John Sharp, regional director at Pick Everard said: “We are delighted to be working on this transformational project with YMCA Milton Keynes, prominent developer Peveril Securities, leading development manager Mayforth and national contractor Bowmer + Kirkland.”

36

Pick Everard joined the project team as architects, lead designers and principal designers after a successful planning application. An efficient build programme was required as the new scheme will replace YMCA MK’s existing facilities. Bringing together a highly coordinated Building Information Model (BIM) of the entire scheme

has successfully accelerated delivery timescales. John continued: “The speed of construction has been impressive due to the careful planning and coordination of the entire team, with the project benefitting from use of a hybrid modern method of construction.” Milton Keynes has seen this flagship YMCA campus rise quickly over the past few months due to its unique construction design. The lower two storeys have been constructed with a steel frame to accommodate community areas such as office space; meeting rooms; a nursery; a café and commercial units. The upper seven storeys of housing provision have been constructed from prefabricated panellised LSF walls and floor cassettes. Gregory Malek, architectural associate at Pick Everard added: “The new campus will transform YMCA MK’s current offering and it’s

a project we’re really proud to have been involved in. Once complete, this new campus will bring YMCA MK into closer contact with the wider community and will create affordable homes and valuable work experience and employment opportunities for Milton Keynes’ residents.” Simon Green, CEO of YMCA Milton Keynes said: “Our new YMCA campus will create a housing pathway for young people experiencing homelessness as well as low cost housing for employed young people. Our onsite social enterprise and commercial units will provide direct employment opportunities so that we can support young people to belong, contribute and thrive.” The scheme is being completed by Bowmer + Kirkland and is being delivered in partnership with YMCA Milton Keynes, Peveril Securities and Mayforth. It is due to complete in December 2019.


9-10 October 2019 • Olympia • London

MAKING YOUR BUILDING SMARTER Smart Buildings Show is the largest free to attend commercial smart building conference and exhibition in the UK. n Keep up to date with the latest innovations and technologies n Meet the leading suppliers to the market n Find new partners and business opportunities n Network with your peers from other organisations Speakers* include: Microsoft, Google, WeWork, CityFibre, ENGIE UK, Bluetooth SIG, WSP, Honeywell, Siemens, Tridium, CommScope, Verdantix, IBM, Cisco Meraki, ExCel Redstone & Planon Exhibitors* include: Schneider Electric, Beckhoff, Johnson Controls, Wireless Infrastructure Group, Resource Data Management, Priva, Helvar, Siemens, One SightSolutions, Synapsys, Allied Telesis, HotDeskPlus, Optimised Buildings & Iconics UK * Correct at time of going to press

Official Sponsors: Official Supporters:

Register at: www.smartbuildingsshow.com


September 2019

LIFE AS WE DON’T YET KNOW IT: BUILDING A SMART MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION The government’s new plans to implement a Smart Export Guarantee for solar panel owners from 1st January 2020 could represent a significant step towards creating a cleaner, greener future. The question is, how big of a step? Paul Hutchens, leading green energy advocate and CEO of solar installation specialists Eco2Solar, answers this question and explores how future energy models might develop over the coming years. Ever since the energy system was designed 60 years ago, our predictable behaviour as consumers has remained relatively similar. Most of us would come home at around 6pm, cook a meal, have a shower and watch TV. Now, however, that pattern is changing. Our use of electricity is becoming much less predictable; we have a lot more devices but they’re more energy efficient. Our homes are better insulated. And, most significantly, we have more households producing their own energy through solar panels; a trend that began with the introduction of the UK government’s Feed-In Tariff in 2010. The original Feed-In Tariff – which ended in April 2019 - was designed to incentivise and stimulate use of solar technology which, at the time, wasn’t economically viable for most householders. Through the Feed-In Tariff, homeowners would be paid a set rate for each unit of electricity generated, use as much electricity as they could and export the remainder; for which they would be paid via the Export element of the Feed-In Tariff.

38

Today, however, solar technologies are more affordable than ever, and under the new Smart Export Guarantee, the government’s proposed mechanism beginning on

1st January 2020, homeowners who install solar after that date can still generate free electricity - but instead of being paid a flat rate of, for example, 5p for every kilowatt of surplus energy they export, they’ll be paid a variable amount depending on the value of that energy at the time. Energy is still more valuable to communities at 6pm when people come home from work than it is at 3am when most of us are sleeping - so rates will depend on these usage models, as well as the energy provider themselves and the package they’re offering to homeowners. It’s hoped this will create a thriving market for surplus energy sellers, as they’ll know when it’s most advantageous to produce, store, use and sell energy, and be able to seek out the most competitive export packages from energy companies. The National Grid and the District Network Operators have yet to develop models around how this market could work. There will invariably be opportunities for homeowners with solar panels and a battery to sell energy at the most advantageous rates, but we may also see the emergence of more complex models where the homeowner effectively leases the panels until they’re paid off, or the energy company installs and owns the panels and sells the energy produced from them to the home or building occupier.


September 2019

It’s similar to the model we see with phones; people will rarely spend £1,000 on the latest iPhone, but they’ll happily spend £30 a month leasing it. Just as the way we currently use data, where we can easily buy, store and move data around, the energy market could - and should - adopt the same model, where we’re able to buy unlimited energy on a particular rate. This model could be successful, providing the energy companies ensure that energy is used and moved around in the most efficient way. Since solar energy is generated during the day, when people are generally out of the house, it will also be crucial to develop a mechanism to capture and leverage that energy; whether it’s for our own use or for export. Therefore, as the Smart Export Tariff becomes more embedded, we’ll begin to see a greater emergence of supportive technologies like lithium batteries that allow us to store energy and sell it at the most advantageous times of day. But one of the most important technologies - which, like batteries, exists at the moment but is yet to be adopted on a widespread scale - is smart apps and programmes that can connect real-time weather predictions to excess solar energy and immediate consumer needs. In other words, technology that knows you’re generating excess solar energy at midday because the sun’s shining, and then harnesses that energy to do tasks you’d normally do when you come home from work, like put the washing machine on. And if you don’t have any daytime need for energy, that technology stores it as surplus for you to use later, or sell to someone down the street at that moment in time, because perhaps they work from home and most of their energy usage is during the day.

We’ll also see more technologies that allow us to sell energy to a specific buyer at a certain location, such as our next door neighbours or nearby schools, shops and services. No dirty power stations, no endless cables; just clean, green, locally produced energy, directly from the sun. But there’s another, more pressing driver behind the need to create more sustainable energy. As our lifestyles develop, so too will electric vehicles, battery storage and technologies that are capable of moving energy around as and when it’s needed. In turn, this will significantly grow our electricity usage; while a typical UK household currently uses around 4,000 kilowatt hours of energy every year, that same household could be using 10 times as much within a matter of years. That’s why we need more solar. As the most convenient and cost-effective form of renewable energy, solar is undoubtedly an essential part of our future, offering us a clear model for sustainable energy production where clean power is both generated and delivered locally. If the Smart Export Tariff succeeds in creating a full-blown marketplace for energy, and if energy providers can build competitive models, and if housebuilders construct the kind of homes that move us towards our Net Zero target, and if we as consumers begin to explore producing our own energy - a cleaner, greener future could be closer than we think.

For more information, visit www.eco2solar.co.uk

39


September 2019

British Woodworking Federation 2019 Awards call for entries open The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a call for entries for its prestigious BWF Awards, which includes a brand new category for 2019, ‘The Rising Star Award’. Now in its 11th year, the event provides an unrivalled opportunity for the woodworking industry to come together to showcase its most outstanding work from the past year and to celebrate the individuals behind it.

40

The ‘Rising Star Award’ category has been introduced this year to recognise and champion individuals within the industry who are having a positive impact on their organisation and the wider community.

Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, launched this year’s call for entries: “The BWF Awards shine a much-deserved spotlight on the UK’s woodworking sector to showcase the incredible things that can be achieved using wood, and the people - whether


September 2019 new to the industry or longstanding – that make it the highly innovative and industrious sector that it is. “The quality of submissions we received last year was truly fantastic, and we’d like to encourage businesses of all sizes, focusing on a whole range of wood products and projects, to come forward and tell us why they deserve recognition.” Commenting on the introduction of the Rising Star Award, Helen said: “This new category has been introduced to recognise individuals whose dedication and hard work has made a real difference either to the organisation in which they work, or to the wider woodworking community. As a trade association, we are now placing a greater focus than ever on supporting career development and creating the leaders of the future, and as part of that we want celebrate those who have demonstrated that they have a very bright career ahead of them.” All entries are free and should be submitted by 17:00 on Friday, 13th September. Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by a client or supplier.

The shortlist will be announced in October, followed by the BWF’s Annual Dinner where the award winners will be announced and celebrated at the Honorable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, London on Friday 22nd November. Further information about the BWF Awards and entry forms can be found here. The categories for this year’s awards are as follows: Woodworking Project of the Year Award – Sponsored by Centor® • Recognises innovation and the very best in design, application and ability in joinery manufacture. • The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: Craftmanship, Project Management and Excellence & Achievement. Product Design in Wood Award – Sponsored by Teknos • Recognising excellence in technical innovation, design and application in joinery product manufacture. • The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: Innovation, Design and Excellence and Achievement.

JT Ward team and CITB

Apprentice of the Year Award – Sponsored by Remmers • Celebrates the achievements of those individuals who are on a formal apprenticeship in a woodworking joineryrelated occupation such as Bench/ Architectural Joinery, Wood Machining and Wood Product Manufacturing. • The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: Outstanding Achievement, Commitment, Adding Value and Personal Development. Rising Star Award – Sponsored by the Timber Trade Federation • A new category introduced to the 2019 BWF Awards. This category has been designed to recognise an individual whose dedication and hard work has made a real difference either to the organisation in which they work, or to the wider woodworking and joinery community. • The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: Customer Service, Innovation, Team/ Community and Business Transformation. Health & Safety Hero Award – Sponsored by CITB • Acknowledges individual or collective effort which has made a notable difference to the health and safety practices and culture within a business. • The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: A Focused Outcome, Commitment and Adding Value. Process Efficiency Award – Sponsored by W20 Exhibition & the FIT Show • Designed to recognise the implementation of lean processes to maximise value for money, quality and speed of delivery.

Arden Windows - Winners 2018

• The award will be judged against any of the following criteria: Clear Thinking, Measurable Results, Commitments and Adding Value.

41


Outdoor

1 Swimming Pool ‌ 4 PoolLock Automatic Covers To cover the pool surface on this very particular design of pool, PoolLock supplied one automatic slatted cover and three automatic safety covers, including a customized V4XXL safety cover system spanning an 11m width. Thanks to its many years of experience designing and producing automatic covers, PoolLock is able to work with customers and architects to create tailored solutions to cover almost any kind of pool.

P

oolLock’s unique hydraulic-drive system means that you do not need any electrical components near your pool. The electrical power pack used to operate the cover and drive the two hydraulic motors can be placed as far from the pool as required. Opening and closing the pool is as easy as turning a key switch, which means that the cover (and the pool) are actually used once installed.

42

PoolLock safety covers provide a solid barrier between the water and surrounding area, effectively preventing


September 2019

any access to the water and making them the safest covers on the market. In addition, all PoolLock covers will reduce the amount of heat, water and chemicals lost through evaporation, which means pool owners can save money on electricity and chemical usage. In addition to the standard fabric options, PoolLock also offers HeatLock Thermofoam canvas with enhanced insulation properties. Thanks to the foamed insulation layer applied to one side of the canvas, heat transfer across the membrane is reduced by a factor of 3 when compared to standard fabrics for similar

PoolLock Safety Covers

applications. HeatLock’s closed-cell foam structure ensure that PoolLock covers are not only the safest, but also the most energy-efficient available on the market. PoolLock Automatic Covers offer you the safest, most convenient, most reliable and energy-efficient way to cover your pool. With over 30 years of experience, and installations in over 20 countries, PoolLock is one of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of automatic safety and slatted covers for swimming pools.

PoolLock Slatted Covers

With over 30 years of experience, PoolLock is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of automatic and manual safety covers, automatic slatted covers and heat pumps for swimming pools. Thousands of satisfied customers in Britain over the past 10 years bear testament to the quality, service and reliability of PoolLock products. In 2013, PoolLock opened its first UK production facility in Gatwick, London, with installation teams that are available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. The result: even better service and faster delivery times for our UK customers.

For more information on our complete range of products, please contact us at www.poollock.com

43


Heating Ventilation August 2019 SECTION& NAME July 2019

August 2019 Heating & Ventilation

FLEXIBLE COMFORT FROM ENGEL’S ‘X-TREME’ WORK TROUSERS Recognised for its comprehensive range of stylish and practical workwear, ENGEL builds further on its reputation with the company’s ‘X-Treme’ collection which includes slimfit, stretchable work-trousers that give maximum comfort throughout the day, especially whilst working on any aspect of flooring. The trousers feature a smooth, inner-crotch seam panel and patches of highly stretchable and ventilated material at the backs of the knees and seat areas to help keep cool and provide greatly increased flexibility whilst bending or kneeling. There are two spacious slanted pockets at the front, two back pockets and a mobile phone pocket with a flap on the right thigh; there’s a standard one on the left which has an extra inner, zipped compartment.

44

Engel seem to have thought of everything with yet more useful features including a ruler pocket with extra sections for tools,

tool straps and Velcro-fastened, knee-reinforced pockets with two knee pad positions for height adjustment. Reflector strips are built in behind the knees for greater visibility and the trousers have an extra deep hem so the length can be increased if required. The Engel ‘X-treme’ Slim-Fit Stretchable Work Trousers are made from 65% polyester and 35% cotton and can be supplied with optional clip-on hanging tool pockets. Depending on the model number chosen they are available in a variety of colour combinations and in all sizes. Item numbers to look out for are: 0360-186, 0361-

186, 0362-740 and 0363-740. These and a new ‘4 way stretch’ version of the trousers, together with a comprehensive range of other ENGEL WORKWEAR clothing and accessories will be exhibited by the company in conjunction with specialist distributor Workwear Trade Centre (WTC) on stand B50 at the Harrogate Flooring Show, 1517th September 2019. For more information contact Gareth Bladen – email: gbl@f-engel.com Telephone: +44(0) 7759 520034 or visit: www.engel.eu/en and www.wtc-workwear.co.uk


September 2019 Clothing

ENGEL WORKWEAR’S GALAXY SHORTS WITH HANGING TOOL POCKETS Whether it’s raining or the sun is shining, temperatures during our ‘summer’ are generally warmer than winter, so to keep cool and still have all the tools you need to hand, a pair of ENGEL WORKWEAR’s Galaxy shorts with hanging tool pockets makes perfect sense. Designed for maximum comfort, the 290 g/m2 shorts, which are made from a 65% polyester/35% cotton mix have an inner seam crotch panel and many practical features including two spacious slanted pockets and two front hanging tool pockets. There’s a strap with a D-ring at the front for attaching an ID card, two back pockets with Velcro flaps and an especially roomy thigh pocket with two inner ones, one of which is zipped and ideal for a mobile phone.

The shorts, which are available in a wide range of sizes and suitable for industrial laundering, are offered in 4 colour combination choices White/Anthracite Grey, Black/ Anthracite Grey, Anthracite Grey/Black and Surfer Blue/ Black Further details can be found by visiting www.engel.eu/en or contact Gareth Bladen at gbl@f-engel.com or +44(0) 7759 520034.

Experts in Textile Solutions For more than 85 years, ENGEL WORKWEAR has been selected by customers from all over Europe as the first choice for all-round protection and maximum comfort no matter what a work situation may demand. Founded in 1927 by Carl J. Engel Senior and now 4th generation family-owned, the company has 850 employees based at its Headquarters in Norgesvej, Denmark and 2 factories in Lithuania. Since it first began, with the importing of denim from the U.S. as a hard wearing fabric, the company’s aims have always been the same – to provide superior quality, value for money workwear designed for a perfect, flexible fit and to give long lasting, reliable service. The original fabric was called Bull Denim which was made from 100% cotton. Over the years the materials and manufacturing processes have been continually developed to incorporate many new practical and beneficial design details with the versatility of the fabric improved by adding the yarn combination of polyester and cotton.New colours

have been introduced and many businesses are now recognized by the specific colour combination and design of their Engel corporate workwear where not only is it valued for its practical uses but also as a significant part of a company’s professional statement. Development is an ongoing process as new smart colour combinations and materials are continuously created and tested, with a constant emphasis on innovation, comfort, durability, and environmental awareness. The company has an impressive seven collections (along with a large range of accessories), all of which are ‘tailor-made’ for a wide range of industries with each item of clothing designed to give maximum freedom of movement and reliability; particularly suitable for the construction industry are the X-Treme slim-fit trousers which have knee reinforced pockets and

patches of highly stretchable and ventilated material at the backs of the knee and seat areas to help keep cool and provide maximum flexibility whilst bending or kneeling. Another popular range is marketed under the ‘Combat’ name; this durable and stylish, uni-coloured collection has contrasting and reflective piping for greater visibility on jackets and trousers, many of which are made from 100% cotton. Almost all the trousers in the Engel Workwear collection are multipocketed and the leg-length can be extended an extra 4-6cm if required. For more information contact Gareth Bladen – email: gbl@f-engel.com Telephone: +44(0) 7759 520034 or visit: www.engel.eu/en

45


September 2019

Forklift Safety Month warns of life-changing accidents UK’s leading training provider to release report on site shortcomings and solutions following industry survey.

W

ith October now confirmed as National Forklift Safety Month 2019, employers are being urged to take this as an opportunity to review their working procedures in a bid to drive down what industry leaders describe as the “stubbornly high levels of accidents and injuries”.

According to Tim Waples, CEO of the Fork Lift Truck Association: “Across the UK there are 5 forklift-related accidents every working day. This year alone more than 1300 individuals will sustain life-changing injuries. And, as the ripples spread out, many more thousands of partners, children, parents, friends, workmates and employers will see their worlds turned upside down.” As one of the busiest and potentially most dangerous times in the logistics calendar, the FLTA believes that October is the perfect time to focus, reassess and make positive change under the banner:

Forklift Safety. It’s no accident. “Just as safety isn’t for a day or even a month, it isn’t just for forklift truck operators either,” continues Tim Waples. “It should also embrace pedestrians working on foot alongside forklifts (who account for almost two-thirds of individuals injured by trucks). “More important still, are the managers and supervisors whose responsibility it is to make the workplace a safe space. They need to take a hard look at their practices and procedures to make sure they are up-to-date and always fit for purpose.” The need for urgent action is underpinned by the results of a recent survey undertaken by Mentor FLT Training, the UK’s foremost provider of training for workplace transport, and the FLTA’s Safety Partner. It contains some startling insights into why the number of accidents remains so high.

46

According to the research: • More than 40 percent of managers and supervisors overseeing forklift truck operations have received no formal training to do so (10 percent of these have no experience as an operator either). • Around 30 percent of respondents said their operators had not received all three stages of training required under ACOP L117 • More than one-third of respondents said that forklifts on their sites operate in the same area as pedestrians, with no segregation between them.


September 2019 A report containing the full results of the research along with valuable guidance will be launched on Tuesday 1st October on the Mentor website and will be available free online throughout the whole of October’s Safety Month. For its part, the FLTA will be providing a suite of resources via its website (www.fork-truck.org.uk), including safety videos, downloadable posters, benchmarking tools and fact sheets, as well as materials to support inductions, training sessions and toolbox talks. Visitors to the FLTA’s online store will also find a range of tools to support managers and supervisors, including low-cost employee safety handbooks which spell out the dos and don’ts for anyone working on or in close proximity to forklifts. The highlight of the month will be the National Forklift Safety Convention on Wednesday 30th October, at which all attendees will receive a free copy of Mentor’s report. Visit the FLTA website to find out more and book your place: www.fork-truck.org.uk The Fork Lift Truck Association is the UK’s independent authority on forklift trucks. For more information, please visit www.fork-truck.org.uk or call 01635 277577.

47


September 2019

Communication is key at the National Forklift Safety Convention 2019 Attendees will have opportunities to develop professional skills that make a difference on site.

T

during the convention attendees will hear a series of inspiring presentations filled with tips and advice on improving listening and management skills.

The event is accredited to provide four Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours, as

Guest speakers at this year’s event include behavioural safety expert Tim Marsh, and Head of Transportation at the HSE Kanwal Kanda.

he FLTA’s National Forklift Safety Convention 2019 will be focusing on the importance of clear communication under the theme of managing behaviours to transform onsite operations.

48

The latest addition to the lineup is former hostage negotiator Rich Mullender, who will be giving audiences unique insight into ways to apply crucial communication strategies to the world of business. Presentations will be given by convention sponsor Toyota, as well as Kellogg’s, who won the Safe Site Award at the 2019 FLTA Awards


September 2019

For Excellence, and will be sharing a case history on the company’s transformative safety initiatives. “2019 will be the 17th National Forklift Safety Convention, and every year we try to find new ways to increase awareness on the importance of safe operations,” said Tim Waples, Chief Executive of the FLTA. “This year’s event will not be one to miss, as there will be so much to learn and take away from an agenda packed with expert advice.” A recent FLTA survey revealed that 62 percent of respondents have attended the convention before, and 74 percent said they were very likely to recommend the convention to a colleague. The quality and content of the convention is also held in high regard, with 74 percent describing it as very relevant to their job and 83 percent believing it to be good value.

“People come back to the convention time and again, which just goes to show how popular it is,” said Tim Waples. “We want people to feel inspired and empowered by what they learn so that they can go back to their businesses and start making positive changes that will secure the safety of their staff in the long term.” The National Forklift Safety Convention will be held on Wednesday 30th October at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry. For a limited time, the FLTA are offering a 20 percent early bird discount on tickets with code EARLY19. Normal ticket prices are £185 +VAT (£135 for members of the FLTA and its Safe User Group). For more information call 01635 277577, email admin@fork-truck.org.uk or click here to visit the FLTA convention website.

49


The UK’s Best Solar & Mains LED Belisha Beacons High quality, fully Highways, EMC and CE compliant 3 year Warranty (solar) - 5 year extended available In stock for next day delivery Made by us in Somerset supplied nationwide and overseas Post Top or purpose made column versions inc. Flange Mount Illuminated Column - Belisha & Refuge (Retro-fit kit) with 2 year warranty Fully tested to all current regs.

Feeder Pillars Standard sizes in stock Made to specification - 2 weeks appox Galvanized steel, GRP, Stainless Steel range of powder coat finishes Styles and sizes for every purpose Pre-wired or shell only Fast lead times

Bespoke work a speciality - contact us for your next project, we'd love to hear from you! Tel. 0333 666 2122 email: info@fisherandcompany.co.uk

www.fisherandcompany.co.uk


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.