WHAT'S INSIDE
The Road Sweeping Round Up
I N S I D E
Pg 2 – Welcome
Pg 3 - Urgent Appeal
Pg 4 - Comm unity
Pg 5-6 - Important Driver Info
Pg 7 - Incident Alert
Pg 8-11 – Health and Safety Reminders Pg 12 – Business Development and Innovation
Page 13 - Social Reach
Pg 14 – TJ Murphy News
In the 2024 Winter edition of the Road Sweeping Round Up we will be looking at Winter driving safety tips, our KTP update, social support, plus many other exciting updates. Additionally we will provide insights into the latest company happenings and offer some new ideas for activities as we head into the Christmas period.
Pg 15 - KTP Update
Pg 16 - Social Support and Charity
Pg 17 - Winter Activities
Pg 18-19 - Company News
Pg 20- Get Involved
Pg 21- Ważne informacje dla kierowcy
Pg 22- Ważne informacje dla kierowcy
Urgent Appeal - Please See Page 3
Welcome to the December issue of the UBU and TJM newsletter
Welcome to the Christmas 2024 Newsletter.
This issue has been put together by our new MMU associate Thomas Kenyon who joins UBU and TJM as part of his year in industry. Thomas commenced his placement in September and so this is a great achievement as it takes lots of time and effort to pull together all this information! I'm sure you will join me in congratulating Thomas and we would remind you that if you have any stories, charity suggestions or good news events you can contact Thomas via marketing@ubusweepers.co.uk.
We also welcome our new Finance Director Mr Michael Davies who will be helping UBU and TJM to develop more robust controls in its operations. Michael comes from a construction background and prides himself on being a people person with a focus on support and development.
Finally, at this time of year its always important to thank all the employees and colleagues for their continual hard work and commitment over the year. We are so proud of the dedication and care that you take in your work and we look forward to continuing to grown and develop our people and our business into 2025.
We wish you a safe and healthy Christmas with your families and friends.
Rebecca and Eddie
URGENT APPEAL
COMM...UNITY
HGV Caution
Being a professional driver of a Heavy Goods Vehicle requires continual assessment of the environment you are driving in. This winter we would remind you that roadsweepers with heavy wet loads on board require additional consideration for longer stopping and braking distances Overloading of sweepers can also cause overspill from the top of the sweeper which can cause dangerous spillages especially when turning corners.
As a friendly reminder, we urge our drivers to be mindful of their vehicle, particularly during winter. Below, we have outlined, in line with National Highways, some measures to ensure UBU and TJM maintain harmonious relationships with others:
Stay clear of HGVs' blind spots for extended durations
Remember, if you cannot see the vehicle's external mirrors, the driver likely cannot see you either. HGVs have significantly larger blind spots compared to standard vehicles. Left hand drive sweepers are even more restricted when lane changing.
Ensure enough space before overtaking large vehicles, as it takes longer. After passing, maintain a safe distance ahead before returning to your lane to avoid being unseen by the driver, which could hinder safe braking.
A HGV driver may not be able to see you or be able to stop if you try to pass them while they are turning, so wait until they have completed their turn before passing. Assume that they'll need more than their own lane to turn. They may need to cut a corner when turning at an intersection.
IMPORTANT DRIVER INFORMATION
A Message from Payroll...
Dear employee, Please hand in all timesheets on time for processing including all timesheets that cover holidays.
Please contact payroll@ubusweepers.co.uk if you have any questions.
DRIVING LICENCE CHECKS
An early reminder that the next licence checks are in January - please send them to Payroll@ubusweepers.co.uk, failure to do so can result in a fixed penalty notice!
SAFETY AND SECURITY ALERT!
We would like to remind all drivers of the critical importance of turning off the ignition and removing the keys from your vehicle every time you exit, even if only for a brief moment Leaving your vehicle running and unattended not only violates safety protocols but also exposes you and others to significant security risks
Unattended vehicles are vulnerable to unauthorized use, theft, and potential accidents, putting both property and personal safety in jeopardy In addition, running engines while parked can lead to unnecessary emissions, contributing to environmental concerns.
To ensure the safety of all individuals and safeguard the security of vehicles on the premises, it is mandatory that all drivers comply with this policy Please remember that securing your vehicle is a shared responsibility, and your actions play a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone.
We appreciate your immediate attention to this matter and your ongoing commitment to safety. Thank you for your cooperation
IMPORTANT DRIVER INFORMATION
WINTER WARNINGS
Winter driving can be hazardous due to snow, ice, and cold temperatures. Prioritizing safety and environmental awareness, we've created essential tips to help you drive safely while reducing your ecological impact. Remember these guidelines before hitting the roads this winter!
WEATHER PLANNING
SLOW DOWN
SAFE DISTANCE
FUEL TANK
Always check the forecast before heading out. Snowstorms, freezing rain, or black ice can appear unexpectedly, making driving treacherous If conditions are severe, consider delaying your trip
Icy roads increase stopping distances, so driving slower than usual is critical. The posted speed limits are designed for ideal weather conditions, not icy or snow-covered roads. Reduce your speed to stay in control.
Increase the gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you On slippery roads, it can take 10 times longer to stop, so ensure you have enough space to react in time
Cold weather can cause condensation in your fuel tank, which might lead to freezing in your fuel lines. Keeping your tank at least half full reduces the risk of this happening and ensures you won’t be stranded if traffic delays occur.
SUDDEN MOVEMENTS
Avoid sudden movements Sharp turns, abrupt braking, and quick acceleration can cause you to lose control on icy roads. Drive smoothly and gently to keep your car stable and prevent skidding
BLACK ICE SNOW
LOW BEAMS
Black ice is nearly invisible and forms on bridges, overpasses, and shady areas. Stay alert and avoid sudden movements if you suspect you're driving over ice.
Driving through deep snow can cause your vehicle to lose traction or even get stuck. Snow buildup under your vehicle can also affect steering and braking Stick to well-plowed roads whenever possible, and avoid areas where snow has drifted or piled up.
When driving through snow or fog, always use your low beam, even during the day. High beams can reflect off snow and fog, reducing visibility and making it harder to see the road ahead.
TITLE:
I
N C I D E N T A L E R T
Overfilling Sweepers
TARGET AUDIENCE:
All sweeper drivers
Recently, the company addressed an incident where a sweeper was overfilled, resulting in the need to compensate two members of the public for car cleaning services. We’ve ensured their vehicles were thoroughly cleaned, and we appreciate their patience as we resolved this matter
To illustrate this event, we’ve included photos of the affected vehicles
While the incident involving the overfilled sweeper was quickly resolved, it highlights some important areas for improvement that directly impact the company’s operations, reputation, and accountability.
1. Reputation Management:
Incidents like this, while unintentional, can affect public perception Our swift response and willingness to reimburse those affected demonstrate our commitment to responsibility and customer care. However, repeated incidents could erode trust, emphasizing the need to prevent such issues in the future
2. Operational Standards:
The mishap underscores the importance of adherence to operational procedures, especially regarding equipment maintenance and monitoring. This incident serves as a valuable reminder to reinforce proper training and checks to prevent similar occurrences.
3.Costs and Resources:
While the financial impact of compensating for car cleaning was minimal, recurring incidents could lead to larger financial burdens, both in direct costs and the resources required to manage public complaints or reputational damage. Proactively addressing the root cause saves both time and money
By treating this incident as a learning opportunity, we can strengthen our processes, enhance public trust, and reinforce our dedication to operational excellence.
INDUSTRY SECTOR:
Any sweeping activties
H
E A L T H & S A F E T Y
R E M I N D E R S
Wear correct Hi-Vis at all times around the depot and on site.
On site, staff must wear re-enforced toe cap boots at all times. Trainers or rigger boots are not acceptable.
Wear correct PPE when carrying out daily tasks. For example goggles when jet washing.
We remind drivers to be mindful that alcohol CAN REMAIN IN YOUR SYSTEM for MANY HOURS. If you are drinking in the evenings or when you are off work you should keep close track of your units. We would like to remind staff that as well as carrying out random alcohol testing, we also operate a ZERO TOLERANCE drugs policy.
We remind staff about hygiene practices at work. Please regularly wash hands with soap, cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and keep your vehicle cabin clean at all times
FALLS FROM HEIGHT ARE A REAL RISK. Employees should NEVER climb on top of their wagon/vehicle/tanker/sweeper. The only employees who have received the relevant training an SSOW are the garage staff who have been trained to work at heights using the relevant equipment.
H E A L T H & S A F E T Y
R E M I N D E R S
We remind staff that smoking is only permitted in the smoking areas provided. We also warn that electronic cigarettes can cause catastrophic damage when thrown into skips due to the batteries, please think before you throw away anything that contains batteries.
Remember that with the evenings getting darker, you are required to use the correct lights on your vehicle to ensure that you remain visible at all times
Drivers MUST check their vehicles regularly and report any damage/defects using the defect reporting procedure. Checking your wheel nuts is an essential part of this process.
All staff must also give way to other drivers when exiting the yard. You must look left and right to ensure other road users aren't at danger as you leave the yard. Also, all staff must follow the walkways on site at all times.
As the conditions get colder, we ask that employees take extra care and ensure that when wearing additional layers, they do not affect the visibility of your Hi-Vis clothing.
Do not leave washing and refuelling till the next day! Please refuel and wash vehicles after your shift.
PointsofContact
IMPORTANT:Whenyouopenthe driversidedoor,alwaysrememberto LOOKDOWNandcheckthefloor beforesteppingout-thiswillhelp preventinjuries
3 Ittakes forstability
Be careful of other drivers
IMPORTANT REMINDER:
Remember that there is no parking allowed for private cars in the depot with the exception of;
Please see the map below for the dedicated parking areas - Parking is not permitted anywhere else on site
Evaluating our Carbon Use
We have started a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Manchester Met University in order to thoroughly evaluate our carbon use and to find ways to reduce it. This project will help us continue to minimise our impact on the environment going forward!
Safety Rep for Help
For any health and safety queries or ideas that we could implement, please don’t hesitate to contact Constantin (pictured above) our safety rep! His email istraining@ubusweepers.co.uk
Our Euro 6 Fleet Target
We are working towards making our fleet completely Euro 6 compliant in order to meet our own and local government targets for net zero As part of this commitment we hope that due to some recent pre-loved acquisitions, we will meet this target by April 2025.
National Highways Job
It’s always nice to receive feedback from the work we do Here is what the customer had to say about our service:
A brand new vehicle was provided Operator was professional, helpful, and polite Service was brilliant and we would be happy to use UBU again
Well done to our Operator:
Piotr Horvowicz
S O C I A L R E A C H
Road Safety Week
UBU Environmental Ltd supports Brake Road Safety Charity in promoting safer roads.
On November 17th, we observed the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, honoring those affected by road accidents and committing to safer practices daily
We shared a reel showcasing the company's support for Brake's efforts to raise awareness of vehicle defects through training, proactive maintenance, and daily inspections
Unblocktober/ Blocktober
Hello readers!
In October we celebrated a month long social media campaign celebrating Unblocktober!
During Unblocktober, UBU Environmental ran a campaign to promote keeping drains clear. Week 1 introduced the initiative, urging people to share the message
Week 2 showcased our Jet Vac Whale Tankers, whilst Week 3 highlighted the impact of Gully Sucking on drains and sewers, Week 4 offered simple actions to prevent blockages
BENTLEY OR UBU?
As Ajaz wrapped up his role as the Marketing Placement Student, he left us with one final gem a video that has everyone laughing!
Featuring Constantin, the video is a playful, laugh-out-loud comparison montage inspired by the iconic Bentley video
The video was a hit, capturing the UBU spirit with wit and creativity.
If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out!
T J M U R P H Y N E W S
Here are some updates to the work TJ Murphy is currently working on Concrete Yard Extension, Walkden
Timber retaining wall and stone paving, Standish
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Jack Wright, who has been an apprentice at TJM, for completing and passing his L2 Apprenticeship!
This achievement marks a significant milestone in Jack's career, showcasing his dedication and hard work. Everyone at TJM is proud and look forward to his continued growth and success. Here's to more achievements, Jack! Keep it up!
General Updates
Ever wondered what happens to the waste you pick up?:
The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) has been developing recycled soils from road sweeping waste for tree planting - diverting the material from landfill
Daniel has been completing a considerable amount of lab work since 2022
Almost all data has been obtained for the 12-months material assessment, including metal concentrations, nutrients and elements
Bellow is an example of our materials being used:
Tree Planting, Huyton
S
A N D C H A R I T Y
ARMISTICE DAY
On the 11th day, of the 11th month, at the 11th hour - we remembered them
As a mark of respect, on Armistice Day, we posted pictures of our sweepers wearing a Royal British Legion Poppy.
WEECHAIRTY DONATION
In November, we donated a selection of older technology accessories and appliances to WeeCharity
CITY OF TREES
Back in July the company made a donation to City of Trees - this is what our donation does:
City of Trees invests £10 to plant and maintain each tree in Greater Manchester, aiming to plant 1,000 native broadleaf trees with a 15-year maintenance plan The initiative features free volunteering events that provide training and equipment for community involvement in climate action Each tree helps combat climate change, improve air quality, and enhance local biodiversity
WeeCharity is a UK registered charity that helps to relieve poverty by offering free complete recycling of computers and electrical equipment.
MANCHESTER
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
The 2003 film "Elf" tells the story of Buddy, an orphan raised as an elf who journeys to New York City to find his biological father Despite facing challenges with his father's behavior and a doubtful step-brother, Buddy aims to win his family's affection and rekindle the true spirit of Christmas. This modern classic encourages embracing one's inner elf and spreading holiday cheer through music.
SKATE MANCHESTER
In its 26th year, the markets continue to enchant, attracting crowds eager to indulge in the festive spirit. With over 225 stalls, it offers an endless array of holiday treats!
For all the details, check out the link below! https://www.visitmanchester.com/shopping/ manchester-christmas-markets-p327351
ELF THE MUSICAL @ THE PALACE THEATRE
Make this winter truly memorable with Skate Manchester! The covered rink ensures a delightful skating experience, regardless of the weather conditions.
Found at Cathedral Gardens, right in the city center – the rink welcomes the public from November 8, 2024, until January 1, 2025.
COMPANY NEWS
Welcome to New Staff
UBU and TJ Murphy are delighted to announce the new team members listed below who are joining our expanding teams We are thrilled to have you on board!
Pawel Wieczerzak
Marcin Borowski
GOODBYE SAM!
Miroslav Angelov
Derela Fabian
At the start of November, we said goodbye to Sam, who's been an invaluable part of the UBU team!
On behalf of everyone here at UBU we wish Sam all the best in his future job and look forward to seeing all the great things he will acheive!
Dariusz Swierczynski
WELCOME MICHAEL!
We’re pleased to welcome Michael Davies, who has become our new Group Finance Director.
We eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will make. Please join us in warmly welcoming him on this new journey.
Give a round of applause to these amazing UBU employees who've reached a milestone! Your hard work and dedication are truly appreciated.
COMPANY NEWS
EMPLOYEE BIRTHDAYS
Zbigniew
Bargiel
Gospodin Stoanov
Kevin Fitzgerald
Martynas Stankunas
Matthew Cain Marcin Borowski
Ana Almeida
Mental Health Support
MENTAL HEALTH
FIRST AIDER
Helen Wigley
helen@ubusweepers co uk
NAV SYSTEMS
Gistaw Lipowski
Thursday 10th October was World Mental Health Day.
On the back of the company supporting the day - the Mental Health Hub was launched. Let’s promote open conversations.
Scan the QR Code or contact Helen Wigley!
As we know many of our drivers like to buy navigation systems to help better plan journeys and recieve updates on traffic changes, here is a navigation system to make your searching easier
SOFTWARE IMPROVEMENTS
We have enhanced our software and interface systems to streamline our operations. We will be continuously working on improvements in this area
SOCIAL MEDIA
UBU Environmental Ltd
@ubusweepers
UBU Environmental Ltd
ubu environmental ltd
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Maybe a personal victory beyond your professional life? Or perhaps a blog idea that you're eager to explore? We want to hear from you! We're excited to highlight the amazing individuals on the UBU team. Don't hesitate to contact us at marketing@ubusweepers.co.uk.
WAŻNE INFORMACJE DLA KIEROWCY
Wiadomość z działu płac...
Szanowny pracowniku, Prosimy o terminowe dostarczenie wszystkich arkuszy czasu pracy, w tym również tych obejmujących święta.
Jeśli masz jakiekolwiek pytania, skontaktuj się z payroll@ubusweepers.co.uk.
SPRAWDZANIE PRAWA JAZDY
PROSZĘ
Przypominamy, że następne kontrole praw jazdy odbędą się w styczniu prosimy o przesyłanie dokumentów na adres Payroll@ubusweepers.co.uk. W przeciwnym razie możemy otrzymać karę pieniężną!
MNIE
ZESKANOWAĆ!
ALERT BEZPIECZEŃSTWA!
Chcielibyśmy przypomnieć wszystkim kierowcom o krytycznym znaczeniu wyłączenia zapłonu i wyjęcia kluczyków z pojazdu za każdym razem, gdy wysiadasz, nawet jeśli tylko na krótką chwilę. Pozostawienie pojazdu włączonego i bez nadzoru nie tylko narusza protokoły bezpieczeństwa, ale także naraża Ciebie i innych na poważne ryzyko bezpieczeństwa.
Pojazdy pozostawione bez nadzoru są narażone na nieautoryzowane użycie, kradzież i potencjalne wypadki, narażając na niebezpieczeństwo zarówno mienie, jak i bezpieczeństwo osobiste. Ponadto, uruchamianie silników podczas postoju może prowadzić do niepotrzebnych emisji, przyczyniając się do problemów środowiskowych.
Aby zapewnić bezpieczeństwo wszystkich osób i zabezpieczyć bezpieczeństwo pojazdów na terenie obiektu, wszyscy kierowcy muszą przestrzegać tej polityki. Pamiętaj, że zabezpieczenie pojazdu jest wspólną odpowiedzialnością, a Twoje działania odgrywają kluczową rolę w utrzymaniu bezpiecznego środowiska dla wszystkich.
Doceniamy Twoją natychmiastową uwagę poświęconą tej sprawie i Twoje stałe zaangażowanie w bezpieczeństwo. Dziękujemy za współpracę.
WAŻNE INFORMACJE DLA
KIEROWCY
OSTRZEŻENIA ZIMOWE
Jazda zimą może być niebezpieczna z powodu śniegu, lodu i niskich temperatur. Priorytetem jest bezpieczeństwo i świadomość ekologiczna, dlatego stworzyliśmy podstawowe wskazówki, które pomogą Ci bezpiecznie jeździć, jednocześnie zmniejszając Twój wpływ na środowisko. Pamiętaj o tych wskazówkach, zanim wyruszysz na drogi tej zimy!
SPRAWDZAJ
PROGNOZY
POGODY
KIEROWCO
ZWOLNIJ
BEZPIECZNA ODLEGŁOŚĆ
ZBIORNIK
PALIWA
NAGŁE RUCHY
CZARNY
Zawsze sprawdzaj prognozę pogody przed wyruszeniem Burze śnieżne, marznący deszcz lub czarny lód mogą pojawić się niespodziewanie, czyniąc jazdę niebezpieczną. Jeśli warunki są trudne, rozważ opóźnienie podróży.
Oblodzone drogi wydłużają drogę hamowania, więc jazda wolniejsza niż zwykle jest krytyczna. Podane ograniczenia prędkości są przeznaczone do idealnych warunków pogodowych, a nie do dróg oblodzonych lub pokrytych śniegiem. Zmniejsz prędkość, aby zachować kontrolę.
Zwiększ odstęp między twoim pojazdem, a pojazdem przed Tobą. Na śliskich drogach zatrzymanie się może zająć 10 razy więcej czasu, więc upewnij się, że masz wystarczająco dużo miejsca, aby zareagować na czas.
Zimna pogoda może powodować skraplanie się paliwa w zbiorniku, co może prowadzić do zamarzania przewodów paliwowych. Utrzymywanie zbiornika przynajmniej w połowie pełnego zmniejsza ryzyko wystąpienia takiego zdarzenia i zapewnia, że nie utkniesz w korkach.
Unikaj gwałtownych ruchów. Ostre zakręty, nagłe hamowanie i szybkie przyspieszanie mogą spowodować utratę kontroli na oblodzonych drogach. Jedź płynnie i delikatnie, aby utrzymać samochód w stabilności i zapobiec poślizgowi.
Czarny lód jest prawie niewidoczny i tworzy się na mostach, wiaduktach i zacienionych obszarach. Zachowaj czujność i unikaj gwałtownych ruchów, jeśli podejrzewasz, że jedziesz po lodzie.
Jazda przez głęboki śnieg może spowodować utratę przyczepności pojazdu lub nawet jego ugrzęźnięcie Nagromadzony pod pojazdem śnieg może również wpływać na kierowanie i hamowanie. Zawsze, gdy to możliwe, trzymaj się dobrze odśnieżonych dróg i unikaj obszarów, na których śnieg się zasypał lub spiętrzył.
ŚWIATŁA
Podczas jazdy przez śnieg lub mgłę zawsze używaj świateł mijania, nawet w ciągu dnia. Światła drogowe mogą odbijać się od śniegu i mgły, zmniejszając widoczność i utrudniając widzenie drogi przed sobą.