Building and Facilities News Issue 998
People that read Building and Facilities News work in the key areas of the UK Building and Facilities Management sectors in such positions as Specifiers, Facilities Managers, Directors, Senior Buyers, Project Managers, Site Managers, and individuals involved in Buildings Management.
People that read Building and Facilities News work in the key areas of the UK Building and Facilities Management sectors in such positions as Specifiers, Facilities Managers, Directors, Senior Buyers, Project Managers, Site Managers, and individuals involved in Buildings Management.
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Tel: 0121 550 4593 ● www.buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk ● September ● Issue 998
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Heavy Duty
Tarpaulins
Trusted Since 1832
Page 6
Bags
Tonne Bags
Debris
Netting
Panasonic
34
Rope and
Cord
36 Sandpit
Bradshaw EV
Creations
37
Economy
Tarpaulins
Editor’s Comments
It’s been an outstanding
year for Duration Windows,
one of the UK’s foremost
manufacturers of aluminium
windows, doors, and roofs.
Named our Windows &
Doors Company of the
Year, Duration Windows
continues to set new
standards in design and
aesthetics. Their exceptional
customer service team delivers an unmatched,
customer-focused experience, supported by
an industry-leading range of products. On
pages 4 & 5, we explore their Heritage Range,
recently expanded to include Internal Screens
due to strong customer demand. The range
has also been enhanced with the launch
of their innovative 25mm thermally broken
transom – the
slimmest on the
market – offering
the most authentic
steel-look windows
and doors available
today.
This issue’s sponsor and our
selected Fleet Innovation
Company of the Month
is CheckedSafe. With over 1,100 companies
now utilising its award-winning system,
CheckedSafe manages more than 110,000
assets on its platform. As leaders in providing
digital tools for workforce management and
safety, CheckedSafe ensures clients meet
regulatory compliance with ease. In this
edition, we spotlight their new LoneWorker
Contents
Nicola Tromans
Editor & Office Manager
app, which offers a comprehensive
maintenance and fleet management
solution. Available for download
on both iOS and Android, this app
brings a host of valuable features.
Learn more on pages 8 & 9.
Show reviews and previews in this
issue: SALTEX 2024, InstallerSHOW 2024,
Homebuilding & Renovation Show 2024.
Other topics covered: Internet Security, Fire
Safety, Lighting & Electrical, Health & Safety,
Facilities & Estate Management, Heating,
Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Turfcare,
Landscaping, External Works & Drainage.
Share all news:
info@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Building and
Facilities News
Company of the Year 4-5
It’s been
a fantastic
twelve months
for Duration
Windows, one
of the UK’s largest leading aluminium
windows, doors & roof manufacturers.
Company of the Month 8-9
We are pleased to
feature CheckedSafe
as our Fleet Innovation
Company of the Month.
SALTEX
Preview 14-16
SALTEX, the
Sports Amenities
Landscaping Trade
Exhibition, returns
for its 78th edition.
InstallerSHOW Review
20-27
InstallerSHOW has
again exceeded all
expectations as a
record number of
visitors flocked to the NEC.
On the Cover
Mudfords 6
Mudfords is a leading specialist outlet for purpose-made covers:
tarpaulins, hessian and jute sheets, nets, straps and slings, rope
and cord, sandbags and any other bespoke related products
predominately for the construction and transport industries.
Heating, Ventilation &
Air Conditioning 33-35
Panasonic is working
with heat pump
installers, Plug Me In,
to provide Panasonic
Aquarea heat pumps
for ScottishPower.
Facilities & Estate
Management 36-37
Sandpit Creations
is an awardnominated
creative
workshop based
in London.
Contacts
Editor & Office Manager, Nicola Tromans – 0121 550 4593
nicolatromans@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp
production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack
The entire content of this publication is advertorial based.
To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 4593.
BFN is sponsored
by CheckedSafe –
see them on
pages 8-9
Windows & Doors Company of the Year
Our Award Winners
In this issue of Building & Facilities
News, we are delighted to showcase
Duration Windows as our Windows
& Doors Company of the Year
It’s been a fantastic twelve months for Duration
Windows, one of the UK’s largest leading
aluminium windows, doors & roof manufacturers.
Despite the challenges currently facing the whole
sector, the company’s managed to maintain a
steady performance, with sales faring in line
with forecasts. With close monitoring of market
conditions, projections have closely matched
actual sales figures.
Innovation and diversification have proved to
be key factors towards sustained growth in a
highly competitive fenestration industry. Duration
Windows has proved time and time again that
while others stagnant or falter, the only way to
truly remain distinctive is to lead, not follow. With
signature trailblazing flair, this company pushes
the boundaries of design and aesthetics and
with a flawless customer service team, offers
an unparalleled customer-centric experience,
backed by a leading portfolio of products. It is for
these superlative reasons, that we have selected
Duration Windows as our Windows and Doors
Company of the Year.
“We are absolutely delighted
to be selected as Building
and Facilities News’ Windows
& Doors Manufacturer
Company of the Year. It is
an honour to be given this
award for recognition of our
high-quality products and
fantastic customer service. A
big thank you to our amazing
team who always go above
and beyond!” shares Grant
Chelton, Managing Director.
The most authentic steel-look
windows and doors on the
market
“We have recently expanded
our Heritage Range to
include Internal Screens
following high customer demand. This versatile
system comes in up to eight door and screen
combinations; including single and double
doors with/without sidelights, fixed screen and a
sliding door option. These screens are ideal for
creating room dividers or corridors within offices,
meeting rooms or simply as internal doors within
In-house fleet of vehicles
Heritage Range
Heritage internal single door
the home. The systems sleek and elegant lines
perfectly complement our external window
and door range to ensure a seamless transition
throughout a home. They are made-to-measure
and come in a variety of glass finishes, available
in over 200 RAL colour options.
“Our Heritage range has been further bolstered
by launching our innovative
25mm thermally broken
transom to the Heritage
external range. It is the
slimmest of its kind and
creates the most authentic
steel-look windows and doors
on the market.”
Spotlight on Duration
Windows: Powerhouse across
fenestration sector
Over the past thirty-nine
years, Duration Windows
has become one of the UK’s
largest leading aluminium
windows, doors & roof
manufacturers. From the
creation of its first product in
its early infancy – Secondary
Glazing, a product that remains a customer
favourite to this day, Duration has held the
number one spot in the industry for exceptional
customer service, innovative products and
impressive range.
Established by Brian Chelton and Dennis Mitchell
back in 1985, Duration has tripled in size and
now manufactures out of 18 Factory Units, with
its Head Office and Showroom based in Thames
Estuary on Canvey Island, Essex. This provides
an ideal location to enable National Delivery to all
customers using the company’s in-house fleet of
vehicles.
Duration has an unparalleled extensive range
of products available including Bi-fold Doors,
Patio Sliders, Secondary Glazing, Roof Systems,
Windows, Doors, Commercial and the incredibly
popular Heritage Range.
New 25mm thermally broken transom –
Heritage Range
“Our product showroom will be relocating to new
and larger premises to allow us to display our
full product line and to enhance our customer
experience. We look forward to showing our
customers our new look!” adds Grant.
Adapting to customer demand: staying ahead of
the curve
Over the years, customer demand has changed
significantly altering the window and door
industry. Homes are now being designed in a
different way from the past, with more open living
spaces and a key focus on environmental and
sustainability.
A common demand for customers is the need
for more glass and less frame to connect their
gardens to their homes.
This has put pressure on the industry to reduce
the size of frames to improve sightlines,
creating larger door panels and achieving high
performance and energy ratings.
Duration Windows adapted to these
changes by reviewing the product range
to identify where improvements could be
made to ensure these new requirements
were being met. In 2021 the Durafold
1000 Slimline Bi-fold door was launched
followed shortly by the Premium Slider
patio door in 2023. The Durafold 1000
Slimline features a quick-glaze bead with
integrated gasket, slim sightlines and
a strong polyamide thermally broken
aluminium profile. While the Premium
Slider offers high multi-point security
locking, a slim interlocker of 35mm wide
accommodating glass panels up to 3
metres wide.
“Not all customers are the same, that is
why our product lines are custom-made
to ensure their visions are achieved no
matter how bespoke these requests
are. We offer a wide variety of design
options to our product lines including
hardware styles, glass designs and glass
performance. Our products are available
in over 200 RAL colours, with the option
of dual colour where customers can
have different colours inside and out,”
assured Grant.
Building & Fac
Company of t
in Duration Sh
4
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Windows & Doors Company of the Year
Modern range with shaped feature
window
ilities
he Year Award
owroom
Duration Windows show stand has been
busy attending exhibitions all year
Industry-leading customer service
To stay ahead of the curve in this industry
though takes a careful balance of market-leading
innovative products and exceptional customer
service. This is where Duration Windows comes
into its own. From initial enquiry through to
delivery, each step is seamlessly taken care of by
a collective team of in-house experts, overseen
jointly by the Officer Manager and Factory
Manager:
s The sales team
advise customers
on products and
provide quotes.
s The production
team notify
customers of the
order progress
throughout.
s The despatch team
liaise and advise
regarding delivery
dates
s The aftersales team
take care of any
queries following
delivery
Heritage internal screens with up to
eight design combination
Rather than relying on automated Artificial
Intelligence updates, which many in the industry
have grown weary of, this ‘personfirst’
approach keeps customers
involved in the process every step of
the way.
One Stop Shop: everything from
one place
When customers order from
Duration Windows, they not only
receive a high-quality product and
excellent customer service, they
are also offered additional support
and services. As a manufacturer,
the company designs, innovates
and shares its expertise with
customers. This is done by offering
marketing packs; branded/unbranded
brochures, corner samples,
marketing campaigns, online
product design tool to create a 3D
configurator for customers to easily
design their product. Customers can
bring their end-customers to visit
the showroom to view and discuss
product options.
“We have an incredible technical
team who are always on hand
to support our customers with
CAD drawings, technical advice, specification
guidance, technical documentation and user
guides. We generate leads for our customers,
whereby we refer enquiries to our experienced
and loyal customers, working in tandem.
“We offer a One Stop Shop, with our wide
product range it allows customers to get
everything they need for their project from one
place, making orders quick and easy.”
Exclusive, extra benefits
to using Duration
Windows
It’s easy to see why
Duration Windows
has a large customer
base, when it takes
great pride in offering
a seamless customer
service experience
from start to finish and
manufactured products
worthy of industry
award nominations.
It doesn’t stop there
though; customers enjoy an extra set of exclusive
benefits:
s Fast-Track delivery service – within 48 hours –
available due to a recent expansion in staffing
and factory units
s Ten Year guarantee across all ranges
– Duration Windows uses cutting edge
machinery and precision engineers and the
guarantee is proof that these products have
in-built longevity
s Quality assurance – all products are rigorously
reviewed to ensure the highest quality in
standard.
s Made in Britain products – supporting the
British economy
s Duration Windows are proud members of the
BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council)
and have Kitemark accreditation with BSi and
Secondary glazing system
BMTrada.
s Duration Windows is an approved supplier to
the Ministry of Justice, evidence of high-profile
clientele.
“As a family run business, philanthropy is at the
heart of what we do. We believe it is important
to support our local community, and one of the
ways we do this is by sponsoring various youth
football teams of differing abilities in our area,
and going forward, this is something we wish to
do more of.”
Using feedback from customers to improve
design
It would be very easy for Duration Windows
to just press repeat on orders but it never gets
complacent in its approach. Instead, the company
listens carefully to customers and is guided by
feedback throughout its design process.
When customers asked for a steel-look design
over a decade ago, Duration Windows obliged
by creating the Heritage Range, the first window
of its kind to compete with steel windows due to
its exquisite design, high security locking system
and great thermal performance. Customers were
delighted with its price tag too, as they are a
fraction of the price compared to steel windows.
Since then the range has evolved, modifying the
design principals to create internal Heritage doors
partnered with their external Heritage Range to
create a cohesive look throughout a home.
Award finalists
This astute business acumen has paid off as
Duration Windows have revealed they are
finalists in four categories at the National
Fenestration Awards (NFA) 2024: Aluminium
Fabricator of the Year, Fabricator/Manufacturer of
the Year, Managing Director/Director of the Year
and Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year.
These awards showcase the very best across the
industry and we wish Duration Windows lots of
luck with the final results.
We want to wish Duration Windows and Grant
all the best with the Awards (NFA) 2024 over the
coming weeks and congratulate them once more
for being the recipient of Building & Facilities
News’ Doors and Windows Company of the Year.
For more information, contact the sales team in
the first instance or click on the website below:
T 01268 681612
sales@duration.co.uk
www.duration.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 5
Site Management
Special offers on popular products:
Polypropylene Sandbags & Tunnel Bags
Mudfords is a leading
specialist outlet
for purpose-made
covers: tarpaulins,
hessian and jute
sheets, nets, straps
and slings, rope and
cord, sandbags and
any other bespoke
related products
predominately for
the construction and
transport industries.
The company was originally established nearly
200 years ago in 1832, when rope-maker John
Horace Mudford pioneered hand-spun hemp.
In 2018 the company was acquired by Stuart
Canvas Group, a market-leading UK supplier of
sports grounds and industrial covers.
Mudfords, as part of Stuart Canvas Group,
focuses on wholesale importing of textilebased
products for the construction, building
and haulage sectors and a solutions-driven
manufacturing for a range of bespoke covers.
With a brand-new premises now in Sheffield,
the Yorkshire-based team has exclusive access
to larger warehouse storage facilities for its
leading product range. Alongside its winning
product portfolio, the expert team prides itself
on its signature customer service by fostering
long-term relationships and providing premium
APM responds to
the King’s Speech
On 17 July, the new government
set out its legislative agenda for the
next year in the King’s Speech. In
response, Andrew Baldwin, Head
of Policy and Public Affairs at APM,
said:
“This is a good start to the road to
recovery, and we welcome many
of the measures announced in the
King’s Speech. Many of the Bills
mentioned in the speech reflect
what APM is calling for in our own
manifesto – specifically ‘respond,
reinvent, reform’.
“By ‘Respond’ our manifesto calls for
stability, a reduction in uncertainty,
financial and skills investment and
a cohesive industrial strategy – and
the speech delivered on most of this.
“The Government called stability
a ‘cornerstone’ of their economic
policy, and promises of an Industrial
Strategy Council to ‘get Britain
building’ alongside a Planning and
Infrastructure Bill, to accelerate the
delivery of high-quality infrastructure
and housing, are welcome.
“Government also promised support
for green energy projects, including
the development of GB Energy and
a focus on skills investment through
the development of Skills England.
“APM’s members have a lot to offer
the Industrial Strategy Council and
Skills England regarding project
management related skills, and have
plenty to offer both groups.
“Legislation was also introduced
giving more powers to metro
mayors and local authorities. We
know there is a significant skills
gap here, particularly project
management-based skills, which
needs addressing. The key now
is to push on from responding, to
reinventing and reforming as any
one part without the others will not
achieve the changes needed.
“If the Government wants elements
of the King’s Speech to succeed
then greater investment in project
management skills is required up
and down the country, alongside
more funding for the Infrastructure
and Projects Authority (IPA), which
will be crucial role in ensuring we
deliver all of the above.”
www.apm.org.uk
products.
As part of its clearance
stock, Mudfords
has special offers
on two of its most
popular products:
Polypropylene
Sandbags and FIBC
Tunnel Bags, available
to new and existing
customers.
The Polypropylene Sandbags come in a pack of
five, measure 13” width and 31” long and are
unfilled. With a 47% discount, the sandbags
are selling fast and 1,677 have already been
sold. Customers can pick the pack up for a
bargain of 60p (including tax) or 50p (excluding
tax), with the unfilled, durable bags perfect for
heavyweight 12.5kg
jobs on-site. The bags
contain anti-rotting
properties and ties,
offering versatility
across different
industries such as:
s Grain storage in
agriculture
s Sand/Flood
defence – can block
doorways and
drains
APM Golden Thread
Report 2024
A new report by the
Association for Project
Management (APM), the
chartered membership
organisation for the
project profession, has
found the construction
sector of the project
management profession
has grown by over
20% in five years to
contribute £33 billion of
annual gross value added (GVA) to
the UK economy.
The Golden Thread Report 2024,
commissioned by APM and
conducted by PwC Research, was
published April 25th at a launch event
at the Science Museum, London.
It follows the first pioneering report
in 2019 that assessed the UK project
profession’s size as well as its
economic and societal contribution.
Overall, the project management
profession now contributes to the
UK economy £186.8bn of GVA – a
key measure of economic output
and productivity. This represents
a growth of 19% from £156.5bn in
2019. In addition, the profession now
employs an estimated 2.32 million
full-time equivalent workers (FTEs).
It means 8.5% of total UK FTEs are
s Protect garden furniture in adverse weather
conditions
The price of FIBC Tunnel Bags have been
slashed by 47% and now retail at £2.88
including VAT or £2.40 excluding VAT. These
robust builders’ bags wouldn’t look out of
place on a building site, making them ideal
for storing building merchants’ materials and
sand. The bags measure 75 x 85 x 95cm and
come with four lifting loops in each corner
for easy transportation. The double-chain
white stitching gives added industrial strength
and the two ‘tunnels’ allow for easy FLT
manoeuvring.
The one tonne bags are used across the
following sectors:
s Flood defence
s Transporting sand and gravel
s Builders and
contractors’ yards
To purchase
Polypropylene
Sandbags or FIBC
Tunnel Bags today,
see the website link
below:
https://mudfords.
co.uk/collections/
clearance-stock-2
employed in project-related roles and
the profession delivers over 9% of
total UK GVA.
When broken down by individual
sectors, construction ranked as
the second highest with a GVA
of £33.19bn – a rise of 23% from
£27.08bn in 2019. Meanwhile, the
number of FTEs in construction
project management has increased
from 260,000 to almost 300,000.
The research, based on official
employment data, market statistics
and a survey of over 500 UK
businesses, rubberstamps the
significance of the fast-growing
project profession.
To download the Golden Thread
2024 Report along with supporting
case studies, visit:
www.apm.org.uk/resources/
research/the-golden-thread
6
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Leaders in Built Environmental
Safety and Health and
Wellbeing Consultancy
DCON Safety Consultants serves
a wide and varied selection of
customers including public sector
departments, corporate owners,
real estate developers, main
contractors, design professionals
and infrastructural bodies.
No project is considered too
simple or complex for their team.
PROVEN LEADERS IN BUILT
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
& SAFETY AND WELLBEING
CONSULTANCY MATTERS –
DCON SAFETY CONSULTANTS
PRIORITISES THE HIGHEST
LEVELS OF INFORMED AND
INTELLIGENT ADVICE,
SENIOR PROJECT RESOURCE
ALLOCATION AND
COMPLIANCE ASSURANCE.
OUR SERVICES
– DESIGN SUPERVISOR
– PLANNING COMPLIANCE
– CONSTRUCTION HEALTH & SAFETY
– HEALTH & SAFETY STRATEGY
– EXPERT WITNESS
Please visit: www.dconsafety.com
Email: info@dconsafety.com • Phone: +353 (0)1 611 1556
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 7
DCON Safety Consultants, Suite 5, Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin 2, Ireland
Fleet Innovation Company of the Month
The award-winning vehic
compliance system for al
In this issue of Building and
Facilities News, we are pleased to
feature CheckedSafe as our Fleet
Innovation Company of the Month
From the roadworthiness
of vehicles and machinery
to the state of ski chalets in
France, Gary Hawthorne’s
proud boast is “We’ll check
anything.”
It is a mantra that has served
CheckedSafe, the business
he co-founded with Darran
Harris 10 years ago, well.
What began as a vehicle
check app for the commercial
vehicle industry has grown
to become a fleet compliance
tool and much more.
Gary, who had a long
career in the bus industry,
and Darran, a solicitor
specialising in litigation and
a lot of time on credit hire
claims (Darran introduced
the Bump Card to the
fleet market), pooled their
expertise to create the
Burnley headquartered
business after seeing a gap in
the market.
The result of their hard
work and investment is an
inexpensive SaaS platform
for any type of digital
compliance. It replaces
cumbersome and archaic
paper-based checklists
with a digital version using
existing equipment, namely
smartphones.
The business continues to
grow at pace. Between 2015
and 2018 it carried out one
million checks, and between
2018 and 2023 that figure had
grown to 20m, and continues
to grow month on month.
Gary says, “We keep
developing new products
and new services. We’ve got
more than 1,100 individual
companies now using our
award winning system, from a
man with a van to businesses
with more than 10,000 assets
in our system.” We have over
110,000 assets registered on
our platform.
Compliance is at the heart of
the business. Gary explains,
“We offer organisations a
complete solution.
“What we deliver gives clients
the digital tools to manage
and protect their workforce
and to comply with regulatory
compliance requirements.
We can also help to reduce
costs and the time consuming
burden of chasing paper”
Drivers are also able to carry
out daily walk-round checks
(pre-use check) and report
if any vehicle defects and
comply with regulations,
maintaining vehicle safety
and make sure they are
roadworthy.
Available on iOS and Android,
the easy-to-use mobile app
features an intuitive, userfriendly
interface.
The features include:
s Bespoke Templates – You
can have any template you
like – think outside of the
box if it needs checking
talk to us we can create
anything not just fleet
and plant related – if your
confident you can manage
that yourself
s Full Maintenance/Fleet
Management solution –
100% paperless in line with
full DVSA guidelines
s Schedules – Set up
schedules for servicing/
PMI/Tacho/LOLER etc. or anything
s Cost module – Track the cost of
your maintenance/spend
s Preference Groups – To enable
anyone to see a mixture of
vehicles that they may manage
across the business and for
external notifications to 3rd
parties
s Countersign – Managers/
Supervisors countersigning checks
s Unlimited Document Storage
either for vehicles/
assets or users and
the ability to push
those documents
out to drivers
– reducing
the need for
drivers to carry
folders.
s Unlimited Users
s Grey Fleet
Management
s Message Service via
the App
s Documents-to-App – push
ANY document to the user via
the App this is for staff documents
or vehicle documents so you can
have everything on the app no
need to carry around folders etc.
s Reminders/Notifications for
ANYTHING
8
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Fleet Innovation Company of the Month
le
l fleets
s Daily/Weekly/Monthly push
summaries – Emailed to your
in-box
s Create and Edit your own Roles
s Multi-Language Checks
(including Cyrillic Symbols)
s DVLA V5 vehicle data inc. MOT
and VED expiry dates
s Job Cards – Pushing and
creating job cards to anyone
managed via the app this can link to
a template such as PMI/Servicing etc.
s Vehicle Cost Recording – Record all
your costs to a vehicle this includes
Fuel records to then provide MPG and
Carbon reports
s Domestic Hours Records – Replace
Domestic Drivers Hours Log books with
real-time capture and reporting via the
app, including remote signing off on
infringement reports
s DVLA (ADD) Driver License
Checking including Tacho Card
and DQC card expiry dates
(additional charges apply)
s Full Reporting Tools – Excel/PDF/
CSV and schedule ANY reports
s Cloud Based Solution using
AWS Servers all UK based
s Accredited and Validated by
DVSA IT ER Systems Provider
s Endorsed by the Border Force
Agency
s Certified to CyberEssentials,
ISO9001, ISO27001
s All our software belongs
to us
s 3rd party integration via
open API
s Geo Location & Tracking
s Risk assessments via the
app
CheckedSafe also offers
its services to workshop
operators, fork-lift truck
operators and deliverers
of building maintenance,
Utilities and Highways.
Today the business has
a 10-strong team, picked
for their legal or transport
background, and a £2.5m
turnover.
Looking back at the past
decade, Gary picks out
key moments. In 2016 it
won a major contract with
a large engineering and
infrastructure group, which
he describes as a “major turning point”.
COVID-19 also had an impact on the
business, changing the landscape
dramatically. Gary says, “We saw a massive
increase in our business during the
pandemic as people realised that they had to
carry out things remotely.
“Essential services had to keep their vehicles
on the road and that meant carrying out
checks using our system.”
Last year saw CheckedSafe
enter into a strategic
partnership with Accrington
based managed transport
specialist CMAC Group. Gary
says it is a good fit that will
help the business in its future
growth plans, including
offering more specialised
services to the taxi and
private hire sector.
Looking at that expansion,
Gary talks of huge
opportunities. CheckedSafe
is well placed to take
advantage, the contract to
check ski chalets in France
came about through an
introduction from one of
its fleet clients operating in
Europe.
Gary says, “It shows just
how flexible our products are
and the many ways they can
be used.
“We realised early on in our
journey that we needed them
to be dynamic. We also strive
to simplify everything.”
Customer service remains
important to the business.
Gary says, “We’re very proud
of our systems and what they
deliver but you have also got
to look after your customers.
We’re also proud of the
relationships we’ve built over
the past decade.”
The CheckedSafe software is
fully compliant with the DVSA
Earned Recognition scheme,
enabling you to prove with
ease that your vehicles,
drivers, and operations meet
all necessary standards, and
reducing the likelihood of
your vehicles being stopped
for roadside inspections.
“We’re proud of the
system we’ve built, and
we’re pleased to see so many businesses
benefitting from our no-nonsense approach
to vehicle maintenance. We work alongside
companies of all sizes, across all industries,
with a wide range of vehicles,” stated Gary.
CheckedSafe is trusted with 1,000s of
vehicles from well-known industry giants
including e-on, HITACHI, SKIWORLD, amey,
and many more.
CheckedSafe is completely transparent with
its fair pricing structure and
whether you’ve got two or
200 vehicles in your fleet,
they always only charge £1
(€1.25) per vehicle, per week.
Furthermore, you won’t be
caught out by any sign-up
fees, extra charges, or costs
adding up in the background.
One happy customer
stated, “Following a
recent demonstration
of CheckedSafe I was
impressed with the legal
compliance this simple yet
robust app provides. Used
correctly, this will protect
both driver and operator.
Undertaking defect reporting
is always a hot topic with the
Traffic Commissioner and the
DVSA, I believe this ticks the
right boxes.”
Contact
T 01282 908429
info@checkedsafe.com
www.checkedsafe.com
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 9
Flooring
Intensive therapy for floors at a busy
thermal spa instead of replacement
With the Bona Resilient System it is possible to renovate and
upgrade resilient floors as opposed to replacement! Offering
substantial cost, downtime, and environmental savings.
Flooring has an enormous effect on any
space – this applies to shopping centres as
well as medical practices, schools, sports and
administrative buildings. It forms the basis for
interior design and contributes significantly
to the overall impression. Resilient floor
coverings have always been the flooring
of choice for these high-traffic settings for
decades. They are easy to install, easy to
maintain and extremely durable.
But even resilient floor coverings do not
have an unlimited lifespan. The wear layer
eventually develops hairline cracks allowing
moisture and bacteria to penetrate. Surfaces
become dull and stained and cleaning agents
become ineffective. This was the case in
the premises of the
thermal baths located
in the idyllic Austrian
ski and spa village,
Bad Gastein. In the
hot springs of Bad
Hofgastein, visitors
have been enjoying
the Gastein thermal
water with all its
invigorating power
365 days a year and
have been doing so
for over 50 years. The 1,000m 2 of linoleum
floors in the rehabilitation area are up to 20
years old and were unsightly, neglected and
could no longer be cleaned or maintained
effectively.
What many people don't know: with the Bona
Resilient System it is possible to renovate
and upgrade resilient floors as opposed
to replacement! Offering substantial cost,
downtime, and environmental savings.
Replacing the floor covering in the thermal
bath would have incurred at least two
months of disruption to business, incurring
substantial loss of revenue. The replacement
process would have included dismantling and
removing the treatment rooms, creating new
covings and repair to the subfloor.
That was out of the question for the spa
operators. They
commissioned
the Bona Certified
Craftsman and interior
decorator Kreuzthaler,
to renovate all
floors with the Bona
Resilient System.
This is a complete
system for renewing
and transforming
existing resilient floor
coverings.
The first stage of the
renovation included
dry sanding and the
use of Bona Diamond
Blades to remove the
old layers of polish.
This whole process is
of course dust-free, in
combination with the
Bona FlexiSand and
DCS extraction system. The floor was then
resanded while wet with the Bona Quattro
disc and Bona Net abrasives. After the surface
was vacuumed with the wet vacuum cleaner
and allowed to dry,
the coloured paint,
Bona Pure Colour, a
2-component PU paint
with a drying time of
just one hour, was
used.
When it comes to
visual design, the
Bona Resilient System
knows no bounds.
Bona Pure Colour is
available in all RAL colours offering a wide
range of design options. Coloured routes
and zones can also be implemented. Logos
and graphics can even be integrated into the
new wear layer. Bona Creative Chips (colour
chips) are also
available, which can
be incorporated into
the renovated floor
covering.
The RAL colour
7035 light grey was
chosen for all rooms
of the Bad Gastein
thermal baths. Bona
Creative Chips (‘Black
& White’) were then
applied to the wet coat of paint to visually
enhance the surface and conceal unevenness
of the floor. Then the transparent PU varnish,
Bona Pure, was
applied twice to
protect the colour and
offer a fully sealed,
hygienic surface. A
logo was added to the
floor in the entrance
hall which was sealed
in to protect it.
The visual result
speaks for itself,
and the onsite
maintenance team are
delighted at the ease
of cleaning following
the renovation. The
Bona Resilient System
also brings many other
benefits.
“I am thrilled to share
my experience with
the Bona Resilient
Solution. The floor renewal process was
seamless and extremely efficient, allowing
us to keep the facility up and running during
the renovation period. Additionally, we were
able to completely customise the floor at
Alpentherme Gastein in Bad Hofgastein to
fit our exact needs – thanks to the expansive
design options offered by Bona. Not only
did Max Walzl, the Bona Certified Craftsman,
offer us great value for money, but also we
saved CO 2 and energy costs due to the floor
renewal rather than a floor replacement!
Considering all these benefits, I highly
recommend everyone choose Bona for their
next flooring project,” said Klaus Lemmerer,
Managing Director, Alpentherme Gastein in
Bad Hofgastein
Faster construction progress and around
90% less use of materials – those who
know the details will not be surprised that a
refurbishment is easier on the budget then a
full floor replacement.
And the environment
also benefits, because
a CO 2 reduction of
up to 90% has been
achieved in specific
projects. In view of
the many sites with
resilient flooring in
need of renovation,
thousands of tons
of CO 2 can be saved
by renovating old
floor coverings. In times of tight budgets and
growing climate concern, the question should
be asked: is it necessary to replace the old
floor? Bona offers a free and non-binding floor
consultation.
Contact: Tony Peak, Bona Resilient Technical
Sales
M 07775 844519
tony.peak@bona.com
www.bona.com/en-gb/facility-solutions
www.bona.com/en-gb/professional/
installation-renovation/resilient-solution/
case-studies/alpentherme-gastein
10
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Water Management
WRAP IT OR REGRET IT – NOW!
Don’t let the cold catch you out this winter
Burst pipes are the most common cause
of home insurance claims in the UK 1 and
cost an average of £3,500 in damage to
property and contents. The expense is
not the worst of it, months of disruption
follows as the property is dried out and
repaired.
Frost is the greatest threat to water
services throughout the winter. UK
Water Regulations require any fitting or
apparatus to be correctly insulated to
prevent frost, unless in a location that is
heated for more than 12 hours a day 2 . It
seems obvious when you are scraping
the ice from the car on a frosty morning.
However, the insurance claims show
that many homeowners, landlords and
occupiers seem to be unaware of this
requirement.
Groundbreaker products are designed
to offer frost protection for 3 days or
more with temperatures as low as -15°C,
temperatures we rarely reach in the
UK – even with today’s erratic climate!
Carefully fabricated to provide long
lasting and effective thermal protection
to water pipes and fittings in external
situations, our products exceed British
excavations or damage to the local
environment. Fabricated to the same
high thermal resistivity as INSUduct,
SHalloduct offers a practical solution to
awkward situations.
Products are available through most
builders' merchants and online, details
available on the ‘where to buy’ pages of
our web site.
For more information or advice, please
visit: www.groundbreaker.co.uk or call
01379 741993 or email:
sales@groundbreaker.co.uk
For more information and applications,
why not sign up for our occasional
newsletter for up to date industry
information and product news via email
or online?
1. www.lovemoney.com/news/19726/
the-most-common-home-insuranceclaims
2. www.legislation.gov.uk/
uksi/1999/1148/made
3. https://bpec.org.uk/qualification/
groundwork-service-pipe-and-meterhousing-installation
Standard 5422 and all relevant Water
Regulations.
Recognised by the HBF (Home Builders
Federation) as the Utility Company of
the Year in 2018 and a contributor to
the recently launched BPEC (British
Plumbing Employers Council) training
course 3 , our products are recognised
as meeting the highest standards in
both product specification and leak free
installation design.
Our range includes, INSUduct which
provides a cost-effective solution to
the replacement of leaking and lead
pipes without the trauma and disruption
of having to dig up floors. Typically
reducing the time needed to complete
the work from several days to a few
hours.
For situations where water pipes cannot
be laid at the recommended depth
of 750mm – eg. over rock, concrete,
tree roots, etc, our SHalloduct product
offers a viable alternative to expensive
12
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
SALTEX Preview
SALTEX 2024: Uniting The Industry, Powering Progress
The Grounds Management Association
(GMA) proudly announces the return of
SALTEX – the Sports Amenities Landscaping
Trade Exhibition for its 78th edition, under
the theme of ‘Uniting the Industry, Powering
Progress’. This year’s event is set to take
place from 30th to 31st October at the NEC
Birmingham, marking another milestone in
the grounds care industry.
SALTEX 2024 will bring together industryleading
grounds professionals, volunteers,
and exhibitors from across the globe,
showcasing the latest innovations, trends,
and practices in grounds management,
landscaping, and environmental
sustainability.
This year’s theme is all about powering the
industry; how SALTEX enables the industry
to continually progress by bringing together
people from all around the world and helping
drive innovation, education, and networking.
The show will feature the industry’s biggest
brands across three halls, and attract
thousands of visitors, reinforcing its status as
the premier grounds management exhibition
for sharing knowledge and driving industry
growth.
“Each year, SALTEX plays a pivotal role in
shaping the future of grounds care,” said
Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA. “This year,
we are focusing on uniting the industry and
powering progress by providing a platform
for professionals to connect, learn, and
advance their skills.”
This year’s highly anticipated show will
include a comprehensive programme
including SALTEX’s renowned Learning LIVE
schedule, where visitors can hear from the
industry’s leading experts, as well as grounds
care professionals from the country’s top
sports grounds, covering industry hot topics.
There will also be opportunities to speak with
grassroots pitch advisors from the GMA and
representatives from the National-Governing
Bodies to receive technical advice as well
as guidance on accessing much-needed
funding and ways to upskill through the
Grounds Management Framework. All this
is in addition to the unrivalled opportunities
to network, earn CPD points and speak to
experts offering career advice.
Sarah Cunningham, Director of Commercial
and Events at the GMA, added, “Last year,
over 7,900 visitors and over 400 brands
attended SALTEX, with many more expected
to attend this year.
“The feedback from last year’s exhibitors
highlighted how SALTEX provides the
platform for meeting high quality business
leads as well as giving the opportunity of
networking and entertaining with existing
customers.”
Visitors can register their interest in
attending SALTEX here: www.saltex.org.uk/
register-interest-saltex-2024
Exhibitors wishing to secure their place at
Europe’s premier sports turf, amenities, and
landscaping trade exhibition can contact:
saltexsales@thegma.org.uk
Stuart Canvas Group
Need more covered space or
need to protect your stock from
the weather?
Stuart Canvas have produced
retractable tunnels and semipermanent
buildings for the
industrial sector for over 50 years.
Retractable Tunnel buildings are
ideal for additional storage space
and are a perfect addition to
any workshop or business. Our
Tunnels are a perfect solution for
creating designated work areas
and can be adapted to suit any
operation, including spray paint
booths and quarantine areas.
Whether large or small, fixed
or retractable, Stuart Canvas
can offer a solution to your
storage needs and advise on
how to create the best additional
work space both internally or
externally. Our Tunnels can be
produced as mobile or static
workshops and can be designed
to be easily dismantled and
assembled should they need
to be relocated in the future.
Contact us to find out how
we can help:
T 01925 814525
www.stuartcanvas.co.uk
14
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
SALTEX Preview
Saltex 2024 top preview: SoluForm
SoluForm is one of our predicted Top Exhibitors for the
forthcoming SALTEX 2024: 30-31 October at the NEC
Birmingham.
The prominent event has incredibly been at the
heart of Europe’s ground
management since 1938.
The Derbyshirebased
company
provides industryleading
solutions
for the hand
placement of bagged
concrete or soil across
civil engineering
applications in and out
of watercourses.
Adhering to
environmentally
sustainable guidelines,
both bagwork solutions
can be cleanly handled and
safely placed both in and out of
watercourses.
Renowned experts in scour protection and
river-work design, the SoluForm team are eager
to chat with all Saltex attendees about the solutions
on offer, and the sales team are further able to offer
practical and design guidance, if required.
Monty Miracle returns to
SALTEX with global presence
Monty Miracle is returning to SALTEX after
securing US distribution at the 2023 show.
The exterior cleaning product made its
debut at last year’s event and returns with
a larger presence, having
set the wheels in motion
to launch to consumers
and tradespeople across
the Atlantic in the coming
months. This expansion is
made possible thanks to a
new partnership with US
company AquaTerra.
The collaboration between
Monty Miracle and
Aqua Terra began at last
year’s SALTEX as the
two companies were on
adjacent stands. AquaTerra
will serve as the distribution
partner for Monty Miracle in
the USA and Canada, with
full training and management
provided by the UK Monty
Miracle team.
Peter Beaumont, director, said, “SALTEX
2023 was a great success for us – as well
as being recognised in the showcase, we
had the pleasure of speaking to some of
the best in the business, meaning we were
able to build on our successful presence in
the UK groundskeeping trade and secure
international distribution.”
The form and designs for prefilled concrete bagwork include
the following and more:
s Structural underpinning of scoured abutments
and training walls
s Scour protection in watercourses
s Earthwork retention
s Creation of new
river walls and
repairs to older
ones
The form and
designs for soil filled
MSE bagwork include
the following:
s Repairs/creation of
embankments, slopes
or retaining walls
s Lining and formalising
of open channels
s Creation of earth bunds and
berms
s Forming of pipe or culvert headwalls
and training walls
See SoluForm at Stand F111: SALTEX 2024
To find out more about SoluForm, see the details
below:
Head Office 01629 541066
sales@soluform.co.uk
www.soluform.co.uk
Monty Miracle is used by
groundskeepers and
professional gardeners across
the UK as it is proven to
eliminate black spot, algae,
lichen and other organic
stains on most external hard
surfaces including stone,
wood, plastic, concrete resin
and coated metals.
Perfect for pathways, walls,
seating, decking, fencing
and steps, it completely
neutralises following the
cleaning process and is
fully degradable so it can be
hosed off safely – essential
when a quick clean across a
range of materials is needed.
The product was created by Martin
Beaumont, who combined his experience of
working with English Heritage and Shell to
produce the perfect chemical cleaner: kinder
to a wide range of surfaces, with better,
longer lasting results. Easier and quicker
to use, it needs no aggressive jetwash or
scrubbing, taking just 10 minutes to break
down organic stains before rinsing with
water.
Peter concludes, “Aggressive jetwashing can
erode sealant and remove the surface layer
of stone, leaving it exposed and vulnerable
to further damage and decay – far from ideal
in high traffic, exposed areas like sports
grounds and courses which can have several
steps and paths! Our alternative is proven
to offer a simple, gentle, more effective
solution that is so much quicker – and
we have a range of five-star reviews and
excellent online sales figures to prove it.
“We are really looking forward to this year’s
SALTEX, and meeting with fellow exhibitors,
guests and delegates.”
Come see us on Stand CO66.
T 01937 225001
hello@montymiracle.co.uk
https://montymiracle.co.uk
16
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Building Products & Services
Energy efficient to the core
aluplast’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Ian Cocken, explains
why energy efficiency, along with sustainability, shouldn’t be
treated a separate features, but as part of a brand identity
Since the turn of the century, Part L of
the Building Regulations (conservation of
fuel and power) has helped make energy
efficiency a key feature of new buildings, in
the drive to reduce carbon emissions.
In recent years, the reduction in legislated
U-values has slowed, but the private demand
for products to be more energy efficient
has increased. This has led to an increase
in demand for products that can achieve
Passive House levels of performance despite
legislation not requiring it.
There is clearly a correlation between rising
energy prices and an increase in demand
for energy efficient products. All building
owners can appreciate the benefit of
investing a bit more up front to benefit from
long term gains – ie, lower energy bills.
But carbon reduction is still key in this drive
towards lower U-values. The Future Homes
Standard, with its focus on zero carbon
emissions, will replace Part L of the Building
Regulations for new build in 2025, and
will be joined by initiatives such as CBAM
(Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism),
a carbon tariff on carbon intensive imports
(such as steel and aluminium) which will be
implemented in the UK by 2027.
So, despite energy efficiency and
sustainability being treated as separate
features of home improvement products –
such as windows and doors – they are both
intrinsically linked.
There are also significant advantages for
those companies that recognise this, and
build a compelling brand around energy
efficiency and sustainability.
At aluplast, sustainability and energy
efficiency are central to everything we
do, including product design, product
manufacture, and distribution.
For example, we have invested heavily in
our profile design and manufacture, which
is made using ecotech at its core. ecotech
is made by extruding PVC-U profile in a
highly advanced co-extrusion process,
which isolates recycled material away
from structural elements of the profile and
the surface, guaranteeing manufacture to
exacting tolerances and surface stability.
aluplast’s surface profiles are completely
flat virgin material with depth of gloss, no
pits, and no extrusion ‘lines’, but still results
in a product that is lower in embodied
carbon, is more sustainable, but is still highly
engineered and long-lasting.
The ecotech element in the profile is grey,
so you can see how the two elements are
co-extruded. This, to us, is like a badge of
honour.
Our customers use this as part of their own
sustainability narrative, and are winning
significant customers and contracts partly on
this basis.
We build ecotech into our modern classbeating
products, such as our new Smart
Slide neo, which has a contemporary
minimalist design with slim sightline lines
and a frame depth of just 154mm. It can
achieve widths up to 6m and a height of
2.5mm, helping designers create desirable
openings with limited visible profile.
Smart Slide neo can achieve Passive House
levels of thermal efficiency, & can span
4.5m with just two panels – one fixed & one
sliding. 3 & 4-panel options are also available.
Thanks to class leading hardware from either
MACO or Siegenia, the Smart Slide neo
achieves excellent performance for both
air/water permeability, meeting BS6375 for
weather tightness, while achieving PAS24 for
security.
Smart-Slide neo can be finished in Smooth
Anthracite Grey, an aludec foil that is
designed to accurately replicate the look and
feel aluminium. This finish is one of 40-plus
colour options, which help to meet the
current significant demand for colour from
homeowners looking create a contemporary
look to their home.
Significantly, we are pulling together
multiple threads to create a valuable brand
and a market-leading proposition for our
customers. With aluplast, energy efficiency,
sustainability, market-leading performance
and high-end aesthetics are woven together
to create opportunities in spaces where other
window & door brands struggle to compete.
For more information, call 01684 273401, or
email: info@aluplast.co.uk or visit:
www.aluplast.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 17
Building Products & Services
Allied Telesis to showcase smart networking
solutions at the Smart Buildings Show 2024
Allied Telesis will be exhibiting at the
Smart Buildings Show, with products and
technologies providing IoT and SDN-enabled
solutions for enterprise, government,
education, & critical infrastructure customers.
Commercials/differentiation
s How Allied Telesis CAPEX and OPEX
models create savings against the market
leader and almost all other tier 1 suppliers.
s How its licencing solutions remove the
challenges that come with other vendors
at the point of POC and beyond especially
with challenging project programs.
Management
Allied Telesis’ managed services
division delivers customised,
state-of-the-art IoT solutions
at the edge, empowering
innovation, improving process
agility, and helping build a
competitive advantage for
customers globally. Visitors
to Stand D18 will see:
s Single pane of glass
management tool with full
end-to-end configuration
from a single interface.
s Tools to ensure recovery
from a product outage is as
painless as possible without
Base Structures creates
stunning new fabric façades
the need for skilled engineer.
s Allows for multi-tenancy so an MSP can
manage up to 300 clients from a single
interface.
“Allied Telesis UK is a well-versed team
that understands the market, drivers, and
requirements. We have a clearly defined
partner programme geared to support our
partners with the tools they need to win
projects and a deep understanding
of our competition with the ability
to cross sell if provided with a
competitive solution, BoM or
requirement. We look forward to
meeting with potential partners and
customers on our stand,” said
Chris Dyke (pictured left), Sales
Director UK & Ireland at Allied
Telesis.
“From a supply chain
perspective, our in-house
production ensures control
and delivery without reliance
on third parties and our
multiple R&D and factories
provide security against
unexpected geographic events. We
also have non-touch China solutions
available should customers require
this for TAA/NDAA compliance,
ideal for US-based customers or critical
infrastructure providers.”
Allied Telesis will be showcasing its end-to-end
range of solutions optimised for enterprise
customers focused on high availability as
well as options for customers who want the
same look and feel but with a more attractive
price point. Also on the stand will be industrial
solutions that are ideal for usage in lift shafts,
risers, and roof spaces without the need for
conditioned air and wireless and security
solutions with the same look and feel as the
rest of the portfolio so that the customer/
integrator only needs a single interface across
the building/campus.
Connect with Allied Telesis or
call +44 (0)1793 510400.
www.alliedtelesis.com/gb/en/contact-sales
Base Structures is
proud to announce
our collaboration
with Printworks
and John Turner
Construction on
the groundbreaking
redevelopment
of Manchester’s
iconic
entertainment
venue. This project
features three
distinct fabric
schemes adorning
both the internal &
external elevations
of the site.
The internal façade artwork, created
by Manchester-based artist Alex Sylt,
serves as a central public art piece
within the venue. Utilising our large
format fabric façade system and
fabric printing expertise, we brought
Sylt’s vision to life, adding a dynamic
element to the venue's interior.
Printworks boasts an impressive
history, and was once the business
premises of several news outlets.
The site housed a
printing press until
the late 1980s, and
through much of
the 20th Century,
was the largest
newspaper printing
house in Europe
and overtime
has become a
popular venue
for shops, bars,
restaurants and
events. Following
this extensive
renovation, it now
features updated
artistic façades and
a new impressive
digital ceiling, the
largest in Europe.
Working at
this prominent
city centre complex site posed
challenges inside and out with
restrictive pedestrian management
which had to be managed with
careful planning and limited access
via the narrow surrounding streets.
To overcome this, Base Structures
engineered a steel frame on Dantzic
Street, to install five large printed
screens by hand. Also given the
congested nature of the site and the
intricacy of our works, careful coordination
was essential, particularly
while working alongside the digital
ceiling installation.
mail@basestructures.com
www.basestructures.com
https://printworks-manchester.com
18
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Best prices guaranteed!
Specialist in business to business supply of
quality Asian ceramic and porcelain tiles
Family business
Huge range
Friendly staff
Interior & exterior
Porcelain tiles
Ceramic tiles
Call us today!
01782 226166
www.tilecentral.net
Showroom & Warehouse in Stoke-on-Trent
Tile Central UK
Trentham Trade Park, Unit F1
Stanley Matthews Way
Stoke-on-Trent ST4 8GA
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Record-breaking InstallerSHOW
raises the bar again
Firmly established as the must-visit event in the
industry’s exhibition calendar, InstallerSHOW
has again exceeded all expectations as a
record number of visitors flocked to the NEC
Birmingham.
The enhanced format of this year’s show gave
over 20,000 professionals from the heat, water,
air and energy space access to more than 300
speakers and 650 exhibitors across two halls
and 40,000m 2 of floorspace.
The 10 live content theatres blended
practical demonstrations of the latest
product innovations with expert insights into
the technical, legislative, and aspirational
developments which are shaping the journey to
Net Zero in the UK and beyond.
Alongside returning favourites such as Solar
Innovations and the elemental Housing Hub,
a raft of attractions made their InstallerSHOW
debut – from Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms,
with its focus on connecting the supply
chain in a seamless and meaningful way,
to InstallerTRADES, which gave genuine
tradespeople the opportunity to share their
views on tools and workwear in an authentic
peer-to-peer environment.
Also appearing for the first time, the elemental
Arena offered an opportunity to hear from
heavyweight speakers such as Deborah
Meaden, Greg Jackson and Chris Skidmore –
while the new Climate Solutions Theatre hosted
a series of events to mark World Refrigeration
Day as well as spotlighting the experiences of
women in the industry.
As ever, the InstallerPLAZA was the heartbeat
of the event, with a varied programme which
took in big names such as Kevin McCloud as
well as giving a voice to installers who work at
the coalface every day. It was also the venue
for Vaillant’s 150th birthday party, featuring
bespoke cocktails, specially commissioned
cakes, and live gig from The Hare Raisers.
Reflecting on InstallerSHOW 2024, Managing
Director, Mike Costain, said, “The buzz around
the NEC surpassed anything we’ve experienced
previously, which is testament to the attitude
of our entire community. It’s fantastic to
see both new and returning visitors and
exhibitors immersing themselves in the spirit
of InstallerSHOW and embracing the belief that
knowledge and fun can go hand in hand. Work
has already begun on laying the foundations
for an even bigger and better InstallerSHOW in
2025.”
InstallerSHOW 2025 will take place across Halls
3a, 4 and 5 at the NEC, Birmingham from 24-26
June, bringing together 30,000 visitors, 800
exhibitors and 400 speakers. This is our pick of
the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed
here in alphabetical order: Blended Products,
BritTherm Limited, Bublshop, Design Odyssey,
Flowsupplies, Heat Centre Renewables, Hotun
By RA Tech UK Ltd, Isoplus UK, M-Press
Fittings Ltd, Planet Devices, Priime Solar, R-Tech
Materials, Salamander Pumps, ThermoSphere,
Trianco, Triple Solar & UV03. Further details can
be found on this page and the next seven.
Contact
www.installershow.com
Robust and reliable heating solutions
The InstallerSHOW
2024 at the NEC
Birmingham was
an impressive
gathering of industry
professionals, and
Trianco made a
strong impact with
its stand. Known
for its robust and
reliable heating
solutions, Trianco demonstrated its ongoing
commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Trianco showcased a variety of their latest
products, focusing on energy efficiency and
renewable heating solutions. Key product
highlights included:
s Activair R290 Heat Pumps – The Activair
range of high temperature air source heat
pumps underscore Trianco’s dedication
to innovative renewable energy solutions.
Available in 5, 9, 15 and 22kW single phase
outputs, each unit is remotely connected
and monitored by Trianco, saving installers
time when commissioning but also giving
piece of mind that
should there be
any problems the
heat pump settings
can be adjusted
remotely without
need for an
engineer to attend.
For installers
fitting under the
ECO4 scheme, the
Activair R290 heat
pumps also attract
a 25% innovation
uplift making
this range a high
quality and cost
effective solution.
s Activair Indoor
Heat Pumps – The
new range of Activair Indoor Heat Pumps
are another innovative product showcased
by Trianco. Ideal
for apartments or
properties without the
space or appropriate
permissions to site
an outdoor unit.
Available in 5 or 7kW
output with flexibility
to purchase a standalone
heat pump or
heat pump with matching domestic hot
water unit in either a horizontal or vertical
configuration and no need for any external
unit.
s Aztec Electric
Boilers – Trianco’s
long standing
Aztec range of
electric boilers was
a significant draw,
particularly the
updated versions
with enhanced energy efficiency and
smart controls. Visitors appreciated the
compact design and ease of installation,
making it an attractive option for modern
homes and retrofits without gas.
One of the most commendable aspects of
Trianco’s presence at the Installer Show was
their clear focus on sustainability, positioning
Trianco as a forward-thinking company in the
heating industry. The emphasis on renewable
energy solutions aligns with global trends
toward greener living.
Trianco’s presence
at the InstallerSHOW
2024 was a resounding
success. They effectively
showcased their range
of innovative and ecofriendly
heating solutions
while also providing
valuable insights into the
future of home heating. The combination of
high-quality products, knowledgeable staff,
and a strong commitment to sustainability
made Trianco one of the standout exhibitors
at this year’s show.
For those in the heating and plumbing
industry, Trianco’s offerings continue to
represent a reliable and forward-looking
choice.
To find out more, visit: www.trianco.co.uk
20
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Design Odyssey
Design Odyssey Ltd was formed
to develop and manufacture
the Vertebrae, the world’s first,
all-in-one, vertical bathroom,
Vertebrae ® .
Installers are
always seeking
products that are
easy to install
and maintain,
which gives
them added
confidence when
working to the
clock or in a tight
space. Installers
will appreciate
the clever design
and discrete
engineering,
which makes this
a true plug-nplay
product.
They will easily
understand
how easy it
is to install,
commission,
maintain and
replace any
parts.
Vertebrae ® is designed to go in
a wet-room environment, with
all the above floor plumbing
provided with the product. It
fits securely to the floor and
ceiling in a stacking formation,
with a shroud to hide the ceiling
fixing. The 4
units all rotate
for ease of use
and are strong
and robust. The
units have easy
access panels
to aid with
installation and
maintenance.
Vertebrae ® only
takes 3 hours to
install and test
the plumbing
connections.
No other trades
need to finish
the room off as
the Vertebrae
is installed last.
The product is
universal as it
will fit in a leftor
right-hand
corner. Available
in any colour.
Contact
M 07765 048990
paul@designodyssey.co.uk
www.designodyssey.co.uk
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Built upon the knowledge and
experience of our growing
team of material scientists and
professional engineers, R-Tech
Materials is a global provider of
expertise in materials testing and
consultancy. We exist to service
our clients with the accurate
information, quality service and
in-depth knowledge they need,
to stay at the forefront of their
industries; where materials
matter most.
Expert Witness – On some
occasions, a materials issue
can lead to injury, death or a
significant financial loss. A claim
or dispute of this nature requires
an expert in the field to provide
an independent opinion about
the facts of a case for insurance
claims and legal proceedings.
Particular procedures must
be followed to ensure that no
evidence is damaged and all
parties are given the opportunity
to view the evidence. When
destructive testing is required,
this will occur at an independent
lab agreed by all parties.
Water Fittings Testing – The
testing of water fittings is central
to demonstrating that it satisfies
the requirements of Regulation
4. R-TECH Materials are an BS
EN ISO/IEC 17025 accredited
laboratory for a wide range of
mechanical testing of water
fittings. R-TECH work closely
with WRAS (Water Regulations
Advisory Scheme) to support
their customers in demonstrating
compliance with Reg 4.
Contact
T 01656 748000
info@r-techmaterials.com
www.r-techmaterials.com
Empowering
sustainable energy
As the world transitions towards
more sustainable energy solutions,
heat networks are becoming
increasingly popular as an
efficient, eco-friendly way to heat
communities. At the core of these
systems lies a critical component:
pre-insulated pipes. Isoplus UK, a
leading manufacturer and supplier
of pre-insulated pipes, is pivotal in
advancing heat networks nationwide.
Their innovative products support
sustainable energy goals
and ensure the networks
operate efficiently and
reliably.
The importance of preinsulated
pipes in heat
networks
Heat networks distribute
hot water from a central
source to buildings,
reducing energy waste
and emissions. Pre-insulated pipes
from Isoplus UK minimise heat loss
during transportation, ensuring
maximum efficiency.
Isoplus UK: Setting the standard for
quality and innovation
Isoplus UK is renowned for its
high-quality pre-insulated pipe
systems, engineered to meet modern
networks’ rigorous demands. Steel
and PEX carrier pipes offer rigid and
flexible solutions and are constructed
using cutting-edge materials and
technologies that provide superior
thermal insulation, mechanical
strength, and durability.
s Superior Thermal Insulation –
Isoplus UK’s pre-insulated pipes
use advanced rigid polyurethane
foam insulation in a durable
polyethylene casing. This design
minimises heat loss, maximising
energy efficiency in
heat networks.
s Durability and
Longevity – Isoplus
UK’s pre-insulated
pipes are built
to endure harsh
environmental
conditions, reducing
the need for
maintenance and
replacements and
lowering overall operational costs
for the heating network.
s Easy Installation and Versatility
– Isoplus UK offers a wide range
of pre-insulated pipe systems
that are easy to install and can be
customised for any project from
stock held in the UK.
Contact
T +44 (0)1302 276976
www.isoplus.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 21
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Water saving to reduce energy
consumption: The importance of regular
maintenance and innovative solutions
In our quest to reduce wasting water and
energy, water conservation has emerged
as a critical focus. While we often discuss
energy-saving measures, the significance of
water management is equally vital. Unvented
hot water systems, if left unchecked, can
lead to inefficiencies that not only waste
water but also contribute to higher energy
consumption.
One of the primary culprits in these systems
is a dripping safety relief valve. When
unvented systems are not serviced regularly
the issue of water passing out of the
various safety relief valves can escalate into
significant issues, resulting in water wastage
that goes unnoticed.
A dripping pressure relief valve, for example,
might seem trivial, but over time it can
lead to substantial water loss. This not only
affects water resources but also requires
additional energy to heat the water that is
essentially being wasted.
There are various issues that can lead the
safety relief valves to pass water (which
happens due to safety reasons indicating
that something is wrong with the system).
Unfortunately, this in turn could cause a
build-up of limescale in the tundish and if
the tundish is not cleaned or water has been
allowed to pass unchecked for a prolonged
period and eventually in the worst case,
cause the water either track outside the
tundish or to drip from the tundish and onto
the floor resulting in damage to the building
fabric.
If, for example, the expansion vessel
has failed on an unvented water heater,
every time the water heater comes up to
temperature it will discharge a small amount
of water equivalent to the expanding water
volume. However, if there is no draw off
of hot water from a tap (for example)
the cylinder is now under the pressure
equivalent to the setting on the PRV
(pressure relief valve) If the
cylinder calls for heat, the
expanding water will once
again force the PRV open
and more water is wasted
to drain. This waste its
heated water, the cylinder
will continue in this
repeating series of cycles
and will, refill, reheat and
waste again and again.
This will happen until the
dripping water is noticed
and action is taken to fix
the issue. The quicker this
is actioned the less water
will be wasted.
This is where the hotun alarm unit comes
into its own. For a small outlay of money,
typically £20-25, the in-tundish water alarm
lets the user know the first time there is
water passing.
It does this by means of an accurately placed
water and temperature
sensor in the bowl of the
hotun dry trap tundish. As
soon as water begins to
pool in the tundish (and
before the first waste cycle
has finished discharging)
the alarm will sound and
draw the attention of the
building user to the issue.
The user can choose what
to do and to prevent further
cycles of waste could cut
the power supply which
immediately stops further
waste pending a repair.
For the installer (outside of warranty periods)
this repair becomes a paid activity and
can then earn more money and will also
enable them to talk with the building user
to encourage them to have the cylinder
serviced (making the installer money once
again).
To address these challenges,
innovative solutions like
the hotun dry trap tundish,
in conjunction with the
hotun detect, have emerged
as game-changers. This
system not only provides a
reliable discharge route but
also features leak detection
capabilities that can save
time, water, and energy.
Equipped with audible and
visual alarms the hotun
detect provides early
warnings, which can be
crucial for preventing larger
issues down the line.
Additionally, it offers four different
temperature alerts to help with diagnosis.
The push for smarter technology in water
management doesn't stop here. RA Tech
is set to release an app-based smart
detect system, the BMS version, and the
detect remote, which promise to enhance
monitoring and management further. These
tools will allow users to remotely monitor
their customer’s/resident’s appliances for
leaks and discharges before it becomes a
larger problem. The hotun detect remote
is the same as the hotun detect but with a
second repeater unit hardwired to the main
unit (mounted to the hotun dry trap tundish),
allowing for 2-way communication when the
main alarm signals, giving that extra piece of
mind to the user.
Incorporating these modern solutions we
can help ensure that the unvented system
is regularly serviced and utilising innovative
products designed for leak
detection. Less wasted
water means less energy
used for heating.
In conclusion, water
conservation plays a
critical role in reducing
our energy consumption.
By paying attention to the
maintenance of unvented
systems and embracing
innovative solutions like the
hotun dry trap tundish and
its accompanying detection
technology, we can make
significant strides in both environmental
benefits and cost savings. As we look to
the future, integrating smart technologies
into our water management practices
will be essential in ensuring a sustainable
and efficient approach to one of our most
precious resources. Taking these steps
today not only benefits us but also helps to
preserve the planet for future generations.
https://hotun.co.uk
https://hotun.co.uk/ads/landingbafnfiveways-digital-oct24
22
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Planet Devices:
Top Exhibitor
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Heat Centre
Renewables debuts
The InstallerSHOW 2024 at the NEC
Birmingham, from the 25th to the
27th June, brought together the
biggest players from across the
heat, water, air and energy sectors.
One thing was certain though, heat
pumps outweighed boilers by a ratio
of 3:1 – indicating the sustained
drive towards cleaner, greener
energy.
Planet Devices is a Plymouth-based
company & definitely one to watch.
Headed up by mechanical engineer
and founder, George Reburn, this
young business is creating waves
across the remote heat pump
monitoring and control sector.
The Atmo smart controller is an
installer’s best friend: a plug n’play
device that’s easy to install and
provides advanced reporting. The
end-to-end solution is manufactureragnostic,
offering control,
monitoring and diagnostics of heat
pumps up and down the country.
The controller offers 24/7 remote
visibility on Sphere Cloud, alerting
the installer to any faults, facilitating
predictive maintenance and for
analysing SCoPs. For ongoing
optimisation, the installer simply
tweaks the parameters from the
dashboard, saving fuel costs and
in-person maintenance.
These genius code cutters have
created a scalable solution for
renewable energy maintenance – no
more costly downtime or callouts.
The advanced reporting affords full
transparency through a user-friendly
dashboard and most importantly is
driving sustainability best practice
through increased energy efficiency
and reduced CO 2 emissions.
Working as a heat pump installer?
Need the installers’ ‘smart product
of choice’?
Contact Planet Devices today:
https://planetdevices.com
T +44 (0)1752 680128
hello@planetdevices.com
www.linkedin.com/company/
planetdevices
Midlands-based Heat Centre
Renewables, supported by its
Underfloor Heating Partner –
Theoheat, made a first appearance
at this year’s InstallerSHOW,
launching its ‘Installer Partner’
scheme.
The show was the biggest yet
and is one of the fastest growing
trade shows in the UK with an
increasing focus on heat pumps
and renewables as we push for
cleaner ways to heat our homes
and businesses.
As specialists with MCS*
accreditation in both Design and
Installation of Heat Pump Systems,
Heat Centre Renewables provide
tailored, turn-key Heat Pump and
Underfloor Heating solutions for
homeowners nationally. Their
‘Installer Partner’ scheme is a
design, supply and assurance
service that has been set up to
enable partner installers deliver
high quality heat pump installations
under Heat Centre's umbrella.
“Heat Centre Renewables Partner
Installers are provided with
bespoke system designs, heat
pumps delivered to site, and
At M-Press Fittings Ltd we are
one of the UK’s top distributors
for press fittings and Pipe. Now
stocking most major suppliers.
Our fittings are becoming
increasingly popular within
the domestic and commercial
markets.
We stock M-profile
press fittings
in Copper
from sizes
15mm to
108mm.
These
are
suitable
for
general
hot and
coldwater
services,
potable water,
gas, and solar
thermal heating. Our
copper range also includes
our new WaterGas fitting which
is fitted with a superior HNBR
O-ring that can be used on both
water and gas systems.
Our commercial range includes
our Carbon fittings and pipe
extensive technical support –
enabling them to deliver high
quality installations for their
customers while we provide full
MCS compliance and access to
financial support such as the £7,500
Boiler Upgrade Scheme...”
Contact: James, Heat Centre
Renewables
M +44 (0)7306 223755
james@heatcentre.co.uk
www.heatcentre.co.uk
*MCS sets, defines and maintains
the standards for low-carbon
energy technology products,
contractors and their installations
including heat pumps.
M-Press Fittings Ltd
from 15mm to 108mm and our
Stainless Steel 304 & 316 fittings
and pipe from sizes 15mm to
168.9mm.
Our products are WRAS and
DVGW-approved (where
applicable), meaning they are
suitable for a multitude of
jobs across all sectors
of the plumbing and
heating industry.
At M-Press,
we pride
ourselves
on our
experienced
sales team
with over
100 years
within the
plumbing and
mechanical
engineering
industries. If you
want more information
about us and our products,
please feel free to call us or drop
us an email and chat with our
knowledgeable team.
Contact
T 01924 491797
info@mpressfittings.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 23
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Salamander Pumps: High praise for new
technology launched at InstallerSHOW
Salamander Pumps, one of the
UK’s leading manufacturers
of water boosting solutions,
attended InstallerSHOW in
June to unveil a brand new,
technology-based product for
the very first time.
Following a two year
development process,
AquaScan is a high-quality,
robust, digital water multimeter
designed to make water testing
easier and more efficient for
professional installers.
The device has 4-in-1 measurement
capabilities, including water flow, pressure,
temperature and hardness to deliver
precise water insight.
Manufactured in the UK, AquaScan
combines cutting-edge technologies to
provide the key measurements needed to
diagnose a water system, aiding installers
with a range of tasks, including specifying
combination boilers, servicing unvented
cylinders, selecting the right water
boosting product, and troubleshooting
water systems.
Free solar panels
You will know from attending the
InstallerSHOW that the future of renewables
lies in integration. And with the recent
introduction of Viessmann’s solar PV offering
to the UK, we are one step closer to the
launch of their OneBase integrated energy
system – bringing multiple technologies
together to increase efficiency, save money
and build confidence.
Richard Barras, Bublshop boss, says,
“Property owners are demanding this type of
connectivity. They love the way Viessmann
home energy
products (like heat
pumps, solar panels
and EV chargers)
integrate – whether
all installed at once,
or each element
over time. And they
appreciate being able
to control and monitor
their entire system
remotely through a
simple app.”
To celebrate, Bublshop is giving away three
premium Viessmann all black PV modules
with every Viessmann R290 heat pump
Mike Oxley, Training Manager at
Salamander Pumps, said, “This year’s
event was the perfect opportunity to
launch AquaScan and we’ve already
had a number of pre-orders and positive
feedback off the back of InstallerSHOW.
“This device will make the installer’s
job exceptionally easier. Our new tool is
a first here in the UK and takes out the
guess work compared to using existing
measurement tools, providing trust and
empowering our customers to deliver the
right solutions with confidence.”
Supplied in a hardwearing and robust
purchased in
September and
October.
“That’s great if
you’re already
installing
solar, and
understand the power of the Viessmann
brand,” continues Richard. “But, if not,
don’t worry! We offer Viessmann-approved
training and support, or we can match
you with partners to help get projects
completed.”
Installers know where
Viessmann sits in the
heat pump market.
Now the offering is
even better, thanks to
their integrable solar
PV modules.
Unlike most solar
brands, Viessmann
offers long term
security. Few companies in the PV market
have the homeowner recognition of
Viessmann, or the strength that comes from
case, AquaScan includes
a variety of accessories to
allow the product to connect
to a range of outlet types;
the supplied fittings allow
connection to pipework,
hoses, showers plus both
indoor and outdoor taps.
The rechargeable battery has
up to a 12 hour life and can
be charged via a USB-C cable
included in the kit, meaning it
doesn’t need to be plugged in
to be able to use it.
AquaScan is available to purchase now
and includes a one year warranty and is
IPX5 rated.
Salamander Pumps also showcased
their most well-known pump ranges at
InstallerSHOW, including GravityBooster
and MainsBooster, with live
demonstrations and advice for installers
available throughout the show.
To find out more and speak with the team,
visit: www.salamanderpumps.co.uk/
aquascan
108 years and a £15 billion annual turnover.
To take advantage of this offer or find out
how we can support you, call the Bublshop
team on 01747 826900 or email
sales@bublshop.co.uk
Bublshop: Distributing Heat Pumps, Solar
and Battery Storage
Buy Viessmann heat pumps and solar PV
from Bublshop
www.facebook.com/bublshop
24
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Flowsupplies – specialist pre-insulated pipe
and fittings merchant – direct to trade
Our range of ISOFLOW products represent the new
standard in pre-insulated pipe, providing excellent
heat retention coupled with installer friendly flexibility
and ease of installation.
Complete system of pre-insulated pipe, fittings and
accessories for:
s Heating
s WRAS approved sanitary domestic hot water
(DHW)
s WRAS approved cold water
s Trace heated WRAS approved cold water for
ultimate frost protection
Rapid turnaround of cut to length pipe from stock to
keep your projects on schedule.
InstallerSHOW was a great opportunity to showcase our
extensive range & allow installers to see the quality of
our product range for themselves. We were inundated
with enthusiastic engineers, many of whom have
since purchased from us – a great success all round!
If you missed us, see you next year!
Talk to the team today:
T 0333 577 0210
contact@flowsupplies.co.uk
www.flowsupplies.co.uk
Click here
to visit the
website
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
BritTherm Limited: Leading the way in
heating and water supply solutions
BritTherm Limited made a notable impact at the
InstallerSHOW 2024, held at the NEC from 25th
to 27th June, by showcasing its extensive and
innovative product range. As a flagship event
for the heating, water, air and energy sectors,
this year’s show emphasised sustainability, with
BritTherm at the forefront of these discussions.
A rising star in the industry
Founded in 2018, BritTherm Limited has rapidly
established itself as a key player in the heating
and water supply industry. With its headquarters
in London, BritTherm has quickly built a reputation
as a trusted supplier of high-quality circulator
pumps across the UK. With a network of over
1,500 retailers, BritTherm has supplied more than
200,000 pumps for both domestic and commercial
use in just six years.
BritTherm’s extensive product range
includes 25 series, comprising
around 180 different pumps
designed to meet a variety
of needs, such as hot
and cold water supply,
radiators, underfloor
heating, solar panels,
heat pumps, boosters,
and recirculation
systems. These products,
along with BritTherm’s
comprehensive 300 page
printed catalogue, were
prominently featured at
The Installer Show.
Commitment to excellence
BritTherm New Range is
registered and compliant
with UKCA, CE and TUV SUD
standards, with additional
WRAS certifications,
ensuring adherence to the
highest industry standards.
BritTherm Limited’s
dedication to quality is
underscored by numerous
certifications such as ISO
9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001,
ISO 27001, and ISO 22301.
The company’s registration
with Gas Safe further
highlights its commitment to
safety and excellence across
all operations.
Advanced technology at an affordable price
In addition to high-tech pump models that
feature 16 built-in programmes, which
can be remotely controlled via any
programmers or thermostats and
are compatible with underfloor
heating systems, smart home
systems, solar systems and heat
pumps – catering to the most
demanding customers – BritTherm
Limited’s portfolio also includes
uniquely affordable automatic
pumps. These pumps are designed
to replace the traditional three-speed
‘old school’ pumps, which are now phased out
of the UK market due to new energy
efficiency regulations. The new P1
series pumps, featuring a built-in
intelligent automatic programme,
satisfy 80% of all consumer needs
including for radiator or underfloor
heating circulation. Additionally,
these pumps offer three operating
modes, similar to the much-loved
three-speed ‘old school’ pumps,
which have been popular among UK
engineers.
All new range pumps offered by
BritTherm Limited comply with
Eco-design regulations and have
EEI (Energy Efficiency Index)
ratings ranging from 0.16 to 0.23,
demonstrating the pinnacle of
technological design and superior component
quality.
For the UK’s lowest prices, extended guarantees,
same-day dispatches or free catalogue – contact
BritTherm Limited today:
T 0208 9044 832
sales@brittherm.co.uk
www.brittherm.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 25
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Reflecting on our experience
at InstallerSHOW 2024
We’re excited to share our experience at this
year’s InstallerSHOW. As our third exhibition,
this event was especially significant for
Blended Products, as we unveiled our
new ‘Blended Fluids’ brand to a wide and
enthusiastic audience.
The InstallerSHOW has always been a prime
opportunity for us to connect with industry
professionals, and this year was no different.
Over the course of the three-day event,
we attracted a diverse range of visitors,
including installers, engineers, housing
associations, and potential partners – all
eager to learn about the latest advancements
in heat transfer and system maintenance
solutions. Our team was truly impressed by
the high level of engagement and thrilled by
the strong interest shown in our products.
Fluids for heat
transfer &
maintenance
Our non-hazardous,
glycol-based heat
transfer fluid,
Thermablend-TX, was
a major highlight of
many conversations.
As a recognised
brand with growing
adoption among merchants nationwide,
visitors were keen to discover how this highperformance
fluid could boost the efficiency
and reliability of renewable heating systems.
Equally popular was our 2-in-1 biocide and
inhibitor, Serviceblend AIR, which attracted
significant attention from those expanding
their installations to include frost protection
valves, eliminating the need for glycol.
Visitors appreciated how this pre-mixed fluid
simplifies installation by removing the hassle
of measuring biocide and inhibitor additives
separately.
Celebrating industry excellence
A standout moment at the InstallerSHOW
was participating in the Installer Merit event.
This inspiring occasion brought together
the industry’s best to
celebrate exceptional
achievements
and contributions
within the installer
community.
Looking ahead with
blended fluids
The show also
provided an excellent
platform to discuss
our plans, particularly the upcoming launch
of an energy-saving additive for water-based
heating and cooling systems. ‘Delta T’,
set to be released later this year, reduces
the surface tension of water, enhancing
thermal transfer and significantly lowering
operational costs. We’re thrilled by the
excitement surrounding this new product
and can’t wait to share it with you soon!
Thank you to everyone who visited us at
the InstallerSHOW and took the time to
engage with our team. Your enthusiasm and
insights are invaluable, and we look forward
to continuing these conversations and
exploring new opportunities together.
T 01652 680555
enquiries@blendedproducts.com
26
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Innovations from Triple Solar
With solar energy being at the forefront
of renewable energy, the InstallerSHOW
has strategically expanded its focus on
solar innovations, attracting a growing
network of installers. At Triple Solar, we
noticed the growing network of solar
installers visiting the InstallerSHOW
and exhibited this year to showcase our
most renowned brands and highlight our
seamless, efficient distribution services.
We showcased Sigenergy’s SigenStor
energy storage systems, with a live
demonstration highlighting their
aesthetic lighting features and signature
‘eagle eye’ design. In collaboration with
Sigenergy, who also exhibited at the event,
we provided insights into SigenStor’s
revolutionary 5-in-1 features and advanced AI
integration.
Clenergy’s mounting products were
another feature of our exhibition
stand, offering visitors a handson
understanding of how these
components are assembled. We had
experts on-site to explain the various
mounting solutions available; the
products are suitable for pitched, flat,
and uniquely tiled roofs, as well as
ground mounting options for both soft
ground and concrete installations.
In 2023, Triple Solar proudly introduced
AIKO solar panels to the UK’s PV market.
Electric heating
made easy. The
professional’s choice.
ThermoSphere, a British
manufacturer since 1998, has been
the go-to brand at The Installer
Show for electric heating products.
Ideal for construction and facilities
management professionals,
ThermoSphere combines heating
and renewable technology,
manufacturing and specifying
products like electric
underfloor heating and
electric boilers.
ThermoSphere
Ultimate ® electric
underfloor
heating combines
a TwistedTwin
cable with in-line
joint technology.
ThermoSphere’s
development process,
founded on installer
feedback, has created
this system which is favoured
by architects, installers, and
homeowners alike because it’s easy
to specify, install and use.
Marked as the only electric
underfloor heating supplier who
designs and manufactures in
the UK, ThermoSphere offers a
complementary range of products
that together create an ideal
environment. Whether it’s a small
bathroom or a big awkward space,
they’ve got you covered. They’ve
thought of everything, so you
don’t have to. It’s not just electric
underfloor heating that they apply
this creativity to – electric
boilers, radiators and
towel rails get the same
scrutiny so that every
ThermoSphere
product is naturally,
better by design.
Why choose
ThermoSphere?
Their products
are crafted for easy
installation, backed
with robust warranties,
access to next-day delivery and
personal support. ThermoSphere
simplifies life, standing out as the
most dependable and user-friendly
brand for industry professionals.
0800 019 5899
sales@thermosphere.com
www.thermosphere.com
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
The InstallerSHOW provided us with the
perfect platform to team up with our fellow
exhibitors to present their second generation
solar panels, informing visitors about their
industry leading safety measures, sleek
designs and unique optimising features.
For 14 years, our family-owned business has
supplied everything necessary for complete
UVO3 specialises in all
aspects of UV disinfection,
providing a comprehensive
range of equipment for both
domestic and commercial use
including; building services,
waste water, agriculture, and
aquaculture as well as food
production areas, packaging
and healthcare environments.
UVO3’s UV technology
is effective in killing all
bacteria and eradicating
pathogens from water, air,
and surfaces. Our innovative
approach eliminates the
need for chemicals, operator
intervention, waste removal
and is cost effective. Our
UV process has no adverse
effects on the taste or
appearance of the treated
product and as a result,
means water, air and surfaces
become bacteriologically safe.
solar power systems to businesses
specialising in both residential and
commercial solar installations.
Our panels, inverters, batteries,
mounting systems and electrical
components are all sourced from
industry leading solar brands, ensuring
reliability and high performance.
Operating from a strategically located
180,000-square-foot warehouse, we
maintain an extensive inventory that
enables the fulfilment of orders of
any size, customised to meet the specific
needs of our clients. Our expert team is
readily available by phone to provide quick
quotations and technical support, while our
skilled warehouse team ensures fast delivery,
offering same-day or next-day shipping
options.
The InstallerSHOW allowed our directors
Yogi & Rocky, and our team to share
insights and gather information on the
latest industry trends from installers
and solar manufacturers. So, if you’re
looking to upgrade your current
installations or offer your customers a
cutting-edge solar solution, we can offer
expert advice.
Visit our website at: www.triplesolar.
co.uk or call 01279 445341 to explore
our products and place an order.
Eliminating bacteria on food
can also increase shelf-life.
Whether it's for individual
off-grid dwellings, hotels,
care homes, hospitals,
effluent treatment, agricultural
irrigation or anywhere that
is affected by bacteria, we
have a solution to fit most
applications.
We have a team of experts
ready to offer advice in all
areas of UV disinfection.
UVO3 also offers a full
range of service options to
ensure your UV systems
are maintained and work
effectively.
Visit: www.uvo3.co.uk or call
+44 (0)1480 355446 for more
information and to schedule
a consultation with our
experts.
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 27
Cleaning & Hygiene
What does the Labour Manifesto
promise for British business?
Here is your quick guide to Labour’s plan to kickstart
economic growth and how it benefits you
Labour’s manifesto for change is a plan to kickstart
economic growth by reforming Britain’s economy
and bringing about a decade of renewal.
Industrial Strategy
Labour will introduce a new industrial strategy,
working in partnership with industry to seize
opportunities and remove barriers to growth.
They will establish an Industrial Strategy Council
to provide expert advice. The council will include
representation from all nations, regions, business
and trade unions to drive
economy in all parts of
the country. Backing what
makes Britain great: Our
excellent research institutions,
professional services,
advanced manufacturing and
creative industries to ensure
a pro-business environment
supporting innovation,
investment and high-quality
jobs. Procurement and trade
policy will be aligned with their
industrial strategy priorities
with tough spending rules.
Labour promises to establish a National Wealth
Fund with £7.3 billion over the course of the next
parliament to make transformative investments
across every part of the country.
They plan to allocate:
s £1.8 billion to upgrade ports and build supply
chains across the UK.
s £1.5 billion to new gigafactories so our
automotive industry leads the world.
s £2.5 billion to rebuild our steel industry
s £1 billion to accelerate the deployment of
carbon capture
s £500 million to support the manufacturing of
green hydrogen.
Making Britain the best place to start and grow a
business
Corporation tax will be capped at 25%. The
business rates system will be replaced, taking
away the burden from high streets and levelling the
playing field against online giants to tackle empty
properties and support entrepreneurship. Labour
also plan to reform workplace pension schemes to
deliver better returns for UK savers.
Labour will ensure their industrial strategy supports
the development of the Artificial Intelligence (AI)
sector, they promise to remove planning barriers
to new Data Centres and will create a National
Data Library to bring together existing research
programmes.
They will scrap short funding cycles for key R&D
institutions in favour of ten-year budgets to allow
meaningful partnerships with industry to keep the
UK at the forefront of global innovation and will
ensure startups have access to the finance they
need to grow.
Labour will implement their creative industries
sector plan as part of their Industrial Strategy,
creating good jobs and accelerating growth in film,
music, gaming, and other creative sectors. They
also plan to attract foreign direct investment into
the UK and expand markets for British exporters.
Economic Infrastructure
Labour will have to start tackling looming crises
in public services and could enact several policy
changes to emphasise their break with Tory
administrations. England needs an economic
infrastructure to deliver UK wide success? Labour
plan a 10 year infrastructure strategy aligned with
their industrial strategy to improve rail connectivity
across the north of England. Rail cancellations are
at a record high. Energy prices have risen faster
than in any other country in Western Europe. Major
projects have been abandoned, or have decades
long delays, cost overruns and leave uncertainty
for supply chains, and a crumbling infrastructure.
The new National Infrastructure and Service
Transformation Authority will set and deliver
strategic infrastructure priorities including new
roads, railways and reservoirs. Major projects will
be faster and cheaper by slashing red tape.
Labour will support the transition to electric
vehicles by accelerating the roll out of charge
points, giving certainty to manufacturers by
restoring the phase-out date of 2030 for new cars
with internal combustion engines.
Railways will be reformed, bringing them into
public ownership with a tough new passenger
watchdog, focused on driving up standards.
Transport services have remained fragmented
and inefficient and so Mayors will have a role in
designing services in their areas including bus
transport to franchise local bus services, giving
commuters in England, control over routes and
schedules. Labour will also promote sustainable
aviation fuels, encouraging airspace modernisation.
Devolving power to communities
Britain is in desperate need of new affordable
homes. Labour promises 1.5 million new homes
over the next parliament. They will transfer power
out of Westminster & into our communities, with
landmark devolution legislation to take back control.
Local areas will be able to gain new powers over
transport, adult education and skills, housing and
planning and employment support.
Recruitment issues will be addressed to support
people into work by bringing Jobcentre Plus and
the National Careers Service together, supporting
disabled people and those with health conditions
into work. They will also establish a youth
guarantee of access to training, an apprenticeship
or support to find work for all 18-21 year olds, to
bring down the number of young people who are
not learning or earning.
Apprenticeship numbers have plummeted. The
apprenticeship levy will be reformed. Labour will
create a flexible growth and skills levy, with skills
England consulting on eligible courses to ensure
qualifications offer value for money.
Clean Energy
Clean energy by 2030 is
Labour’s second mission. Their
plan is to create 650,000 jobs
across the country by 2030.
Delivering clean power by
doubling onshore wind, tripling
solar power, and quadrupling
offshore wind by 2030. They
will invest in carbon capture
and storage, hydrogen, nuclear
and marine energy, and ensure
we have the long-term energy
storage our country needs.
Also reducing bills for homeowners and business
owners by hundreds and thousands of pounds.
They plan to do this by creating a publicly owned
company, Great British Energy, creating jobs and
building supply chains across the UK. Paid for by a
windfall tax on the oil and gas giants making record
profits, to cut energy bills.
Make Work Pay
Labour’s employment reforms include a crackdown
on zero-hours contracts and ‘fire and rehire’, new
collective bargaining for the social care sector and
extending equal pay protections to ethnic minority
and disabled workers.
Women’s equality will be at the heart of their
mission. Their plan to Make Work Pay will
transform the lives of working women, including by
strengthening rights to equal pay and protections
from maternity and menopause discrimination and
sexual harassment. And Labour will take action to
reduce the gender pay gap, building on the legacy
of Barbara Castle’s Equal Pay Act.
Labour will also introduce a landmark Race Equality
Act, to enshrine in law the full right to equal pay
for Black, Asian, and other ethnic minority people,
strengthen protections against dual discrimination
and root out other racial inequalities.
Labour is committed to championing the rights
of disabled people and so will introduce the full
right to equal pay. Building on gender pay gap
reporting, Labour will introduce disability and
ethnicity pay gap reporting for large employers.
They will support disabled people to work by
improving employment support and access to
reasonable adjustments. Labour will also tackle the
Access to Work backlog and make sure people can
try out a job without fear of an immediate benefit
reassessment if it does not work out.
Overview by Nina Wyers, Marketing and Brand
Director of The Floorbrite Group.
www.floorbrite.co.uk
28
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Landscaping, External Works & Drainage
Warwick Buildings
Ltd wins Award of
Excellence
Warwick Buildings Ltd is a leading
local supplier of high quality timber
buildings, specialising in garden
offices, modern garden rooms,
and wooden garages. With a focus
on quality craftsmanship and a
commitment to using sustainable
materials, Warwick Buildings is
a trusted name in the industry,
providing customers with versatile,
aesthetically pleasing structures
enhancing their outdoor spaces.
Founded in 1988, at the heart of
Warwick Buildings’ success is its
customer-centric approach. The
company prides itself on delivering
a personalised service, assisting
customers from the initial design
phase to the final installation.
E2 Media have recently unveiled
their highly anticipated 2024 Awards
of Excellence. Warwick Buildings
Ltd, have secured the prestigious
award for the second consecutive
year. Their exceptional dedication
to providing unparalleled customer
service has set them apart.
Warwick Buildings’ outdoor buildings
are designed to meet the growing
demand for functional workspaces
Jardana KNX irrigation
control and Fabro
KNX touch panel
The automatic KNX irrigation control
system Jardana ensures healthy plant
splendour in the garden – with and
without KNX. In combination with
the robust Fabro KNX touch panel,
Elsner Elektronik GmbH offers an
efficient solution for controlling and
monitoring irrigation in the garden.
Jardana is the first automatic
irrigation controller that can also be
integrated into the KNX building bus
system. The controller consists of a
combination of hardware (valve unit,
sensors) and associated app. Jardana
can also be used independently of
KNX as a stand-alone solution.
Commissioning the irrigation system
works according to the ‘plug & play’
within the tranquillity of your home.
These structures are crafted with
precision and attention to detail,
utilising high-quality timber. Whether
for remote professionals or those
looking for traditional office spaces,
these garden offices are a perfect
solution. Warwick Buildings offers a
wide range of customisation options,
allowing customers to create a
building that matches their specific
requirements. Warwick Buildings
incorporates advanced insulation
techniques and double-glazed
windows into their garden rooms
and offices, making them energyefficient,
suitable for year-round use.
So, if you're looking for a suitable
outdoor office space or want to
increase your living space then
Warwick Buildings is the go-to choice
for all your needs.
For more information, visit:
www.warwickbuildings.co.uk
principle. Water & mains voltage are
connected. Settings are made via the
app. If required, Jardana generates
its own WLAN, which enables it to
be used in allotment gardens & on
extensive properties.
If irrigation needs to be stopped
because the garden is being used or
if an extra portion of water needs to
be provided, this can all be controlled
via the app using a smartphone or
tablet. If Jardana is integrated into the
home's KNX system, further options
are available. Irrigation can then be
monitored & operated via a home
control panel or garden touch display.
The Fabro KNX touch panel is ideal
for this because it is designed for
outdoor use. The large display and
control areas can be customised
to suit individual requirements. For
example, to quickly start and stop
watering or to monitor which zone
is currently being watered. Other
functions can also be integrated here,
such as lighting, awning control or
the display of current wind data,
cistern fill level etc.
info@elsner-elektronik.de
www.elsner-elektronik.de
Professional, efficient
staffing solutions for the
horticulture industry
Fresh Horticultural Careers (FHC)
is a premier recruitment agency
specialising in the Gardening,
Landscaping, and Horticulture
industries, serving both the UK and
international markets for the last
24 years. FHC provides businesses
with both temporary and permanent
staffing solutions, covering a broad
spectrum of roles. These roles
range from essential
garden labouring
and commercial
maintenance to highly
specialised positions
in landscape design
and management.
With over 150
job opportunities
available at any given
time, FHC ensures that
candidates are carefully
matched with employers,
whether locally or overseas.
For businesses and facilities
managers, FHC offers a streamlined
recruitment process that handles all
aspects of candidate screening and
selection. This not only saves time
but ensures that companies receive
qualified and reliable personnel
suited to their specific needs. Its
services include CV enhancement,
career counselling, and active
promotion of candidates to potential
employers, allowing businesses to
focus on their core operations.
What distinguishes FHC from
traditional recruitment agencies
is its deep industry knowledge,
reliability, and flexible pricing
structures. As a member
of prominent industry
organisations such as
the British Association
of Landscape
Industries (BALI)
and the Recruitment
and Employment
Confederation (REC),
FHC adheres to the
highest standards of
ethical and professional
practices in recruitment.
This commitment ensures that
businesses can trust FHC to provide
high-quality staffing solutions that
meet both regulatory requirements
and the unique demands of the
horticulture and landscaping sectors.
T 020 7793 7825
info@freshhortcareers.com
www.freshhortcareers.com
The future of blue roofs
Proteus Waterproofing, a
leader in blue roof design and
installation and ACO, a global
water management specialist,
are proud to announce a new
partnership, designed to deliver
the ultimate blue roof package.
It combines unparalleled
design expertise from Proteus
Waterproofing with the
innovative patented RoofBloxx
blue roof attenuation system
from ACO Building Drainage,
a game changing development
which is helping to transform the
way that the industry manages
rainwater.
As a result of the agreement,
Proteus will now incorporate
ACO’s patented RoofBloxx
system, where possible, into
every blue roof they design and
install. This ensures optimal
water management in all weather
conditions, a critical aspect of
blue roof functionality.
Comprehensive design support
from Proteus will remain an
integral part of the offering. This
includes in-depth site surveys,
bespoke specification services,
advanced roof design solutions
and robust technical support.
By combining this exceptional
design knowledge with ACO’s
water management experience,
every project will benefit from
a team of experts, dedicated to
delivering the best possible blue
roof solution for every contract.
Proteus Waterproofing’s design
package includes a detailed
understanding of each specific
need and uses cutting-edge drone
technology for inspections and
provides on-site visits to ensure
no detail is missed. Precise
U-Value calculations, condensation
risk analysis, fire risk compliance,
wind uplift assessments and
drainage calculations are part of
the package.
www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk
www.buildingdrainage.aco
30
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Introducing the Eco Clipper
Electric Mowing Systems
Turfcare
Eco Clipper offers large area mowers that help
field managers minimise mowing costs while
producing a professional finish. The Eco Clipper
mowing system was originally developed to
replace the cylinder mower in turfgrass production.
The aim was to retain the cutting performance
of a well-tuned cylinder mower, but not the high
maintenance requirements and sensitivity to
mowing conditions, such as wet grass and weeds.
The system
The smooth cutting decks with fast spinning small
blades ensure a high quality of cut and a good
distribution of clippings. Thanks to the electrically
driven blades, the mower is very economical and
quiet. The large wheels and smart mower deck
linking system ensures good contour following and
enables high mowing speeds.
The benefits
Users report high productivity gains and appreciate
the low maintenance requirements and the ability
to schedule mowing even under less favourable
mowing conditions, such as early morning dew
and wet autumn, which can often prevent removal
of grass clippings.
The models
Municipalities and sports field and park managers
have discovered the advantages of the Eco Clipper
mowing system. For them, Eco Clipper now offers
two versions: the 4.11m wide EC-FM4 Sport and
the 3.43m wide EC-FM343. Both are
positioned in front of the tractor,
providing excellent visibility and
comfort for the tractor driver.
The EC-FM4 Sport has four
independent mowing decks, mows
till 4.11m wide and folds up to 2.5m
width. It only needs 50hp, but fits
best to small size agricultural tractors. To meet the
demand for more lightweight mowers suitable for
most park tractors from 40hp upwards, the Eco
Clipper FM343 has been developed. This three-part
Eco Clipper front mower cuts 343cm wide and
folds to a transport width of 170cm. As with the
larger 411cm wide EC-FM4, electricity is provided
by a PTO-powered generator behind the tractor.
info@ecoclipper.com
www.ecoclipper.com
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 31
Homebuilding & Renovating Show Preview
Create your dream home
thousands of new and innovative products
to improve your home; and discover the
ins and outs of everything from planning
regulations for extensions and managing
renovation budgets, to stylish kitchen design
and integrating underfloor heating.
Visit the Homebuilding & Renovating
Show, held at London’s ExCeL from 27-29
September 2024, the event for anyone who
has a home project – big or small. Brought to
you by leading experts from Homebuilding
& Renovating magazine and now in its 30th
year, the show can provide you with free
expert advice, inspiring sessions and access
to hundreds of brands all under one roof.
What are you waiting for?
From practical tips to inspiring advice and
the latest products, we’ve got it all under
one roof at the Homebuilding & Renovating
Show, the go-to exhibition for self builders
and renovators.
No matter what stage your project is at,
we’ll help you to bring it to life! Come along
for tailored, one-to-one advice; browse
Visit our seminar theatre to hear inspiring
experts talk about a range of topics including
A beginner’s guide to building your own
home, how to reclaim VAT or how to design
a life enhancing home.
Get free impartial advice with a one-toone
consultation with the experts from
Homebuilding and Renovating at our
dedicated advice centre.
Explore an array of leading brands including
flooring, doors and windows, heating,
lighting, outdoor and much more.
Our masterclasses offer more detailed help
Your journey to great home
ventilation starts here!
The Air Shop is your trusted partner for everything
ventilation, offering tailored solutions to meet your
specific needs. We pride ourselves on a simple process
and supporting you every step of the way. From the
initial design phase to supply and installation support
we specialise in a wide range of brands and systems,
including Passivhaus compliant models and MVHR with
integrated cooling options.
where you need it most. Hear experts cover
a range of topics including how to turn £2k
into £200k in just two years and how to select
your sliding doors.
We pride ourselves on giving you great value
at the show. Visiting a show usually means
you'll get an offer you won't see anywhere
else.
Hear from Content Director, Michael Holmes,
Planning Expert, Sally Tagg, Interior Design
Expert, Julia Kendall, and Finance Expert,
Tom McSherry, among many others.
For anyone involved in the building trade,
the Homebuilding & Renovating Show is the
perfect place for you to find fresh inspiration
and learn top tips and tricks to help you with
your day to day. With innovative seminars
and masterclasses from our experts, as well
as hundreds of quality exhibitors to explore,
the show is the ideal place for you to top up
your knowledge.
https://london.homebuildingshow.co.uk
Visit Stand C154 to meet Leo, our resident MVHR expert.
He’ll be available to guide you in choosing the perfect
ventilation solution that aligns with your home’s unique
requirements. Whether you're planning a new build or
upgrading an existing home, The Air Shop can help
provide the knowledge and expertise you need. Watch out
for his masterclass on Sunday 29th too!
If you’re thinking about MVHR – why not try The Air
Shop’s online 60 second quote tool which provides an
immediate estimate of the cost of an MVHR system for
your property based on its floor area. This quick and easy
tool gives you a clear understanding of what to expect in
terms of budgeting!
We’re looking forward to seeing you at the Homebuilding
& Renovating show – visit us on Stand C154 to the to see
a range of ventilation units & ducting options. Your perfect
home ventilation system is just a conversation away.
T 033 0223 6776
www.theairshop.co.uk
32
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Activ-Tec introduces ActivStopLeak, a
robust defence against water damage
Activ-Tec has announced the
launch of its new leak detection and
prevention device, ActivStopLeak.
A game-changer for plumbing
professionals and property owners,
the system offers unparalleled
protection against the risks of flood
damage in properties.
ActivStopLeak far surpasses current
market offerings by detecting
micro flows as low as 0.1 litres per
hour, a significant improvement
over existing products that detect
flows from 5 litres per hour at best, and at
worst, 120 litres per hour. This remarkable
sensitivity not only positions ActivStopLeak
as a leader in the field but also as a critical
tool in significantly reducing annual water
bills, capable of identifying the most elusive
leaks. For example, a leaking WC cistern can
be invisible to the eye, but can waste over
8,000 litres of water a year. A dripping tap
can waste around 31,500 litres of water per
year.
Stuart Gizzi, Director at Activ-Tec, highlights
its significance, “ActivStopLeak is not just
about detecting leaks; it’s about proactively
preventing the extensive damage and costly
repairs that can result from flooding. Its
advanced technology can detect even the
slightest anomalies in water flow, offering
a vital line of defence against severe water
damage and costly bills.”
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
The system’s intelligent control learns
normal water usage patterns to identify
leaks or burst pipes early. Upon detecting a
potential major leak, ActivStopLeak promptly
shuts off the water supply. This mitigates
the risk of flooding and associated damage,
including electrical hazards, compromised
structural integrity, and the potential for
mould and mildew growth.
ActivStopLeak further empowers users
with a comprehensive app for real-time
monitoring and control from a smartphone.
Users receive alerts for detected
leaks and can remotely shut off or
restore the water supply. This feature
is especially useful for managing
unusual water usage situations, such
as watering the garden.
The app also allows for temporary
resets in case of minor leaks, keeping
the system functional while awaiting
repairs. An optional wall-mounted
remote provides a visual status of
the water system, allowing users to
instantly spot any issues.
In a nod to its credibility and reliability,
ActivStopLeak proudly meets the
stringent requirements of CIREG Section
6 for Managing Escape of Water Risk on
construction sites, and achieves BREEAM’s
Category WAT 03 Water Leak Detection
credit point targets.
ActivStopLeak joins Activ-Tec’s range of
innovative products, which includes its
innovative ActivFlo water conditioner,
launched in 2017.
Contact
T 01889 272180
https://activ-tec.com
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 33
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Blue green roof and
underfloor heating
acquisitions
Genuit Group plc, the UK’s largest
provider of sustainable water, climate
and ventilation solutions for the built
environment, is pleased to announce
the acquisition of Sky Garden
Limited, Omnie and Timoleon.
Sky Garden Limited is a leader in
green roof technologies providing
design, supply, installation and
maintenance services for green
and bio-solar roofs, podium decks
and green walls. Sky Garden was
acquired for a cash consideration of
£2.5m.
The business, based in Tewksbury,
Gloucestershire, will join the Water
Management Solutions (WMS)
business unit and will extend the
Group’s blue green roof offering.
It will provide an additional route
to market for Genuit’s Permavoid
business, which it complements, and
we also expect synergies with the
Keytec installation business. Together
these provide a full blue green roof
solution offering.
Omnie and Timoleon are leaders
in underfloor heating (UFH) board
technologies & providers of full UFH
system design and supply services.
The trade and assets of the group
operating the Omnie and Timoleon
businesses have been acquired for a
cash consideration of £2.7m.
The businesses operate and
manufacture in Exeter, Devon and
Lomza, Poland. The brands will
complement and enhance the
Group’s UFH offering and will be
part of the Climate Management
Solutions (CMS) business unit.
Omnie serves direct customers
and the merchant channel while
Timoleon supplies OEM customers.
We expect strong synergies with the
existing Nu-Heat business in CMS
and with the Group’s Polypipe UFH
offering for new housebuilding in
the Group’s Sustainable Building
Solutions (SBS) business unit.
Contact: Joe Vorih, CEO or
Tim Pullen, CFO
T +44 (0) 1138 315315
Plumbing and heating
firm takes action to
address trades crisis
bare the skills crisis gripping the
trades. This isn’t a new problem but
clearly more must be done urgently
to make sure school and college
leavers can get through the doors
to training like we provide.”
Panasonic partners
with Plug Me In
Panasonic is excited to announce
its collaboration with heat pump
installers, Plug Me In, to provide
Panasonic Aquarea heat pumps
as part of ScottishPower’s clean
heating customer offering.
The new partnership will deliver
accessible heating solutions
across the UK. Engineers
from ScottishPower’s installer
company, Plug Me In, will install
Panasonic Aquarea L or J Series
air-to-water heat pumps with
Panasonic Smart Cloud controls
for customers on behalf of
the ScottishPower Customer
Business in the UK.
Over the last 18 months,
ScottishPower has installed over
3,000 heat pumps in houses
across England, Scotland and
Wales, utilising government
grants and the ECO4 scheme.
“It is now more affordable than
ever to access sustainable home
heating solutions,” says Jose
Alves, Regional Director for
Panasonic UK, Ireland, and the
Netherlands. “Thanks to our new
partnership with Plug Me In and
ScottishPower, we are proving
that anyone can make this
change.”
The new Panasonic L Series
Aquarea heat pump delivers
water outlet temperatures of
75°C down to -10°C and SCOP
of up to 5.6, upholding excellent
efficiency and earning an A+++
Energy Class. In addition, the
units can be more easily and
quickly retrofitted into older
properties with existing radiators.
To find out more, please visit:
www.aircon.panasonic.eu
www.plugmein.com/heat-pumps
www.scottishpower.co.uk/airsource-heat-pumps
Lincoln Smith, Managing Director of
Custom Heat, says the firm is doing
everything it can to encourage
more people into vital roles like
plumbing, heating engineering and
electrics as demand rockets – but
stressed that more can still be done.
His comments come after shock
new figures from the Fix Radio
National Construction Audit showed
the extent of the problem, with
hundreds of thousands of people
waiting months for qualified
tradespeople. The figures show that
226,000 are currently waiting for an
electrician, 301,000 are waiting for a
plumber, 415,000 for a builder and
294,000 for a roofer across the UK.
Mr Smith said, "These figures lay
Last year the UK Trade Skills Index
2023 report projected demand for
plumbers and heating engineers
will soar as vacancies reach an
all-time high across the sector. It
warned a staggering 70,000 new
plumbers alone will be needed by
2032.
The report also highlighted that
the UK needs a million new trade
recruits over the next decade to
keep pace with demand, with nearly
a quarter of a million of those
requiring apprenticeship training to
plug the growing skills gap.
The firm is urging anyone interested
in an apprenticeship to get in touch
about the training opportunities on
offer.
Contact
www.customheat.co.uk
34
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
The Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet
solves the problem
of operating a
solenoid valve
when a system is
without power.
The Small Tool with
a Big Attraction
The Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet
is a tool that
converts Electrically
Operated Solenoid
Valves into handoperated
valves.
This enables
service engineers
to operate solenoid
valves manually
in refrigeration,
air conditioning,
water, oil, gas, and
fuel installations.
The magnet is the
same shape and size
as a large cotton reel.
The Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet assists
during the installation,
recovery of refrigerants,
and commissioning and
decommissioning of
plant and machinery.
When placed onto
a valve stem (with
the coil removed), it
causes the armature
to open or close.
02381 550189 www.fridgenius.com
Facilities & Estate Management
Disrupting the Future
Cloud, a leading provider of smart
facilities management solutions
and technology which works
with some of the world’s biggest
brands, including Tui, TGI Friday,
Chiltern Railways and The Rank
Group, ran its groundbreaking
event – ‘Disrupting the Future:
What Facilities Management will
look like in 2050’ on the 16th of
July at London’s iconic City Hall.
The exclusive, invitation-only
event showcased cutting-edge
technology and visualise the
future of facilities management
in 2050. Cloud brought together
leading industry experts to
explore how transformative
trends like artificial intelligence
(AI), Internet of Things (IoT),
Augmented Reality (AR) and ESG
are revolutionising the industry.
Jeff Dewing, CEO of Cloudfm,
said, “This visionary event
was the first of its type for our
industry. We challenged C-Suite
professionals and Property
Directors to undergo a total
mindset shift to prepare them
for the future of FM. It’s not just
about staying ahead of the curve
with the latest technology or
meeting ESG tick boxes, it’s so
much more…"
Joining Cloud on the day was
acclaimed TED Talk speaker,
Explorer and Founder, Mark
Pollack. He delivered a keynote
address designed to inspire
attendees to adopt new
perspectives, encouraging
courageous action and
collaboration to achieve greater
outcomes.
Head of ESG at Cloud, Kat
Christopoulos, chaired a panel
with a major international client
on how they have transformed
their ESG programme. The
discussion also featured insights
from a notable ESG consultancy
and a leading sustainability
champion from the London
Assembly.
Contact
www.cloudfmgroup.com
Concerns over increases
in short term lets
Recent ONS data has revealed
that Hartlepool is the UK’s number
one rental hotspot, as the area
reports a 122% increase in listings
from January to December 2023.
Blackburn and Tamworth have also
reported a 100% increase in shortterm
rentals in the past year.
Alternatively, the Merseyside town of
Crosby saw the biggest decrease in
availability of short-term lets across
2023 with a 17.24% reduction in
availability. Several Scottish areas
such as Glasgow (9.50%), Edinburgh
(7.59%), Argyll and Bute (3.12%) and
Aberdeen (2.92%) saw a decrease.
With the recent surge in short-term
lets available in the UK, hundreds
of new landlords will have entered
the rental property market, many
of whom will be unfamiliar with
the complex landscape of property
management and maintenance.
Paul Bullard, Product & Professional
Services Director at SFG20, the
industry standard for building
maintenance, has shared his insights
on how landlords can ensure they are
remaining compliant and in line with
tightening building regulations & the
consequences of non-compliance.
“In a time where there is significant
new legislation to understand and
comply with, including the Fire Safety
Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act
2022, the expectations in building
management have never been higher.
However, the ability to absorb and
make the necessary update to your
property to always remain compliant
is a real concern for many landlords.
Building maintenance is no longer a
backseat issue for property owners,
but the cornerstone of health and
safety, and efficient running costs.
A ‘fix on fail’ approach might work
for non-urgent maintenance, but
the approach can mean that legally
required tasks are not completed,
creating significant risk to both
building owners & tenants.”
www.sfg20.co.uk
36
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Sandpit Creations
Sandpit Creations is an awardnominated
creative workshop
based in London, with a mission
to create innovative sets, props,
and experiences that both engage
audiences, inspire creativity and are
built to withstand interaction.
Sandpit Creations works with a
small but widely talented group
of individuals, bringing together
carpenters, creative and concept
designers, scenic artists, textiles
specialists, creative technologists,
prop makers, sculptors, and
metalworkers as well as writers,
directors and performers.
Bringing these skills together
under one roof ensures seamless
communication and collaboration
between each element of a project.
The team have experience in a
range of modern and traditional
fabrication techniques including
joinery, fibreglassing, textural
effects, microelectronics, and
robotics. With a passion for the
latest developments in technology,
Sandpit Creations delivers
innovative special effects and
interactive experiences every time.
Sandpit Creations only launched
in January 2023, and has already
worked with end-clients including
Samsung, Doc Martens, Aardman,
Cupra, Kew Gardens and Wakehurst.
Previous and present projects
have included Alcotraz prison bars
and Moonshine Saloon, Sherlock
Holmes Museum, Vincent van Gogh
immersive experiences, seasonal
Halloween and Christmas costumes,
shopping centre immersive
experiences and a ‘mind control
safe’ for corporate exhibitions.
Get in touch for sets, props, costume
pieces and full-show concepts for
theatrical, immersive experiences,
installations and much more across
the built environment sector!
#See you in the Sandpit
M 07547 352391
info@sandpitcreations.com
www.sandpitcreations.com
Follow all the latest projects on
social media:
www.linkedin.com/company/
sandpit-creations/
@sandpit_creations (Instagram)
Free site surveys
MMS Facilities Management is
excited to announce the launch of
its brand-new website at https://
mmsfacilitiesmanagement.co.uk/
along with its free site survey
service. In keeping with their
commitment to provide tailored
facilities management solutions, this
new online platform is designed to
provide prospective clients with an
intuitive & efficient experience when
seeking information, booking a free
survey, or learning more about our
facilities management (FM) services.
New website highlights:
s Free Survey – We believe in
providing exceptional customer
service, which is why we offer
complimentary surveys for all our
facilities management services
– clients can find out what they
really need without incurring any
charges (T&C apply).
s Streamlined Navigation –
Featuring a user-friendly design
that makes it easy to access
detailed information about
our comprehensive services,
including maintenance, security,
cleaning, & waste management.
s Detailed Service Descriptions
– Each page provides indepth
information on all our
facilities management services.
From routine and preventive
maintenance to advanced
security solutions and efficient
waste management, clients can
find everything they need to
understand how we can meet
their specific needs.
s Meet the Team – The ‘Meet the
Team’ section introduces our
skilled professionals, highlighting
their expertise & dedication to
delivering exceptional & thorough
facilities management solutions.
s A Client-Centric Approach –
We have designed the site to
emphasise our commitment
to providing tailored facilities
management solutions for
various sectors, such as
educational – including PBSA
Student Accommodation –
commercial, residential, and
industrial environments. Our goal
is to align our services with each
client’s operational requirements.
https://mmsfacilitiesmanagement.
co.uk
Facilities & Estate Management
Gates for added
protection
For homeowners or businesses
looking to improve security, installing
a gate is a step in the right direction.
Gates are an important deterrent
in residential and business areas
against opportunistic burglary or
even vandalism, making homes
and properties less of a target for
criminals.
Castle Gates & Automation is a leading
bespoke gate installation company,
from wooden, metal to metal frames gates clad in wood or composite, with
many other options available. The company is based in Great Gaddesden,
Hertfordshire and can offer modern upgrading of existing gates, through to
installations of bespoke, new designs. With an extensive portfolio, customers
can choose from manual and automated gate options, with a further choice of
above-ground, or concealed underground automated gate motors. For level
driveways, homeowners can opt for sliding gates, if preferred.
For additional ease and convenience, each gate automation has a remotecontrol
fob access, with keyboard entry systems or audio/video systems
optionally available for added security measures. Intercoms have become
standardised now with many homes and businesses around the country and
Castle Gates & Automation can supply GSM Audio Intercoms, GSM Video
Intercoms, Wired Audio Intercoms and Wired Video Intercoms.
Installing state-of-the-art CCTV gives optimised security, day and night and
when you’re not at home or on holiday. Castle Gates & Automation provides
an extensive range of cameras including: short and long range, through to
wide-angles, so your whole property is always expertly covered.
Enquire today to find your perfect gate:
T 01442 253341
enquiries@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
Use your phone as
the remote controller
GSM Activate
provides advanced
GSM-based products
that are particularly
useful for remote
monitoring and
control. These
solutions enhance
security and
convenience,
enabling managers
to control and
supervise facilities
remotely, improving
efficiency in
managing large
estates or facilities.
Boasting over 100
5-star reviews on
Trustpilot, let’s take a
closer look at its best-sellers.
GSM Auto Dialer
Designed to enhance security by
sending SMS alerts or making calls
to pre-programmed numbers when
triggered by an event, such as a
security breach or equipment failure.
It allows for instant notifications
without the need for landlines, and
is easy to install. It can integrate
with various systems, making it a
versatile tool for enhancing safety
and operational efficiency.
GSM Multi Switch
This versatile device
allows remote control of
electronic equipment via
mobile phone or landline.
It features dual relays to
independently control
two devices, working
with 2G and 4G networks
globally. It’s easy to
install, provides status
updates via text, and has
a durable, weatherproof
design. This switch
is suitable for various
applications, including
security and automation.
4G GSM Intercom
Ideal for residential,
commercial, or industrial
settings, the 4G GSM Intercom
allows for remote gate or door
entry control via a mobile phone.
It supports 4G networks, enabling
two-way communication with
visitors and the ability to unlock
gates or doors from anywhere,
allowing users to manage access
without being physically present.
Contact
T 01273 462380
sales@gsm-activate.co.uk
https://gsm-activate.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 37
Health & Safety
An impressive 10 year
flight to the top
Direct Hoist, an ever-expanding construction hoist
hire and sales specialist, is celebrating its 10th
anniversary. A relentless 10 years of evolution;
a constant commitment to staff development,
an unrivalled attitude towards impeccable safety
standards and a green revolution within the
industry sector.
The Midlands-based firm is at the forefront of
construction hoist technology, bringing innovative
Italian Electroelsa machinery to the British market
and establishing an accredited training facility at
its Lincolnshire headquarters to boost health and
safety standards on construction sites.
Direct Hoist’s company founder and managing
director, Rob Wilson, is keen to ensure customers
can benefit from his firm’s growth by gaining
access to not just a wider range of products but a
one-stop shop for planning, supply and tuition for
the use of construction hoists.
Rob says, “We’ve been in this industry for more
than 30 years, working face-to-face with valued
clients. This means
we intuitively know
exactly what each
customer needs for
every project – how to
make life easier, saving
time and construction
costs. In turn, they can
trust our experience
and advice to be the
absolute best.”
So confident is Rob
that Direct Hoist offers
the best packages,
his company gives
free advice and site
surveys; crucially, his
team assesses what
might be needed
later in the scheme
to ensure the right
equipment is provided from the outset.
For many years, Direct Hoist has specialised in
high-quality German GEDA equipment and boasts
a healthy fleet of modern, expertly-maintained
machines always available for hire. But to keep
ahead of competitors – and to ensure customers
receive the best choice – Direct Hoist is also
the UK distributor for Electroelsa, an Italian
manufacturer of mast-climbing work platforms
(MCWPs), transport platforms, material hoists and
construction hoists.
Rob says, “Electroelsa is implementing a wide
range of technological innovations, which we’re
excited to introduce to the British construction
industry.”
Electroelsa is a market-leader in safety, and
benefit from high-tech computer control,
including SIM technology with data-logging; it
features a self-diagnostic function to remotely
relate to Direct Hoist any problems, wherever it is
in the world.
“We can save countless man-hours by quickly
solving issues without even visiting the site,” says
Rob. “We can programme a hoist to restrict or
enable users, and we can turn it off remotely in
the event of emergency or theft – or even nonpayment…”
Direct Hoist invested in the expansion and
redevelopment of its Lincolnshire site to include
vastly greater storage areas, bigger offices and
a bespoke teaching centre. Here, candidates will
be trained to reach NVQ (National Vocational
Qualification) Level 2 standard in hoist installation.
A two-day session will be offered for experienced
people, while a week-long course is available for
a more comprehensive understanding of erecting
and dismantling different types of construction
hoists.
Direct Hoist’s facility includes a 10m training
tower, capable of transporting
a two-tonne platform hoist to
full height, and partnered with
a specialist training provider
examined by an external
assessor before they can
receive a certificate to supply
NVQ accreditation. So, at the
end of each course, students
receive a certificate recognised
on most building sites.
Further expansion to the Direct
Hoist Group includes the launch
of its trailer hire, DH Trailer
Hire, and plant hire department,
DH Plant Hire – mini diggers,
dumpers, excavators and such
like – again to give clients better
and easier access to the machinery needed.
While achieving all that, Rob’s approach to all
aspects of the business is to take a fresh look at
Direct Hoist’s operations with an environmental
eye.
Rob says, “Direct Hoist is moving forward to
decrease our carbon footprint down to zero
emissions.”
The basics were covered easily: long-life,
low-energy LED lighting was fitted to the firm’s
workshops and offices to replace inefficient
equipment; recycling is rigorously monitored
and separated to minimise general waste; scrap
materials are saved up and weighed in only when
there’s a full load, and implemented paperfree
hand-overs via phone apps, and virtually
paperless offices.
Direct Hoist runs a fleet of diesel-powered vans
on HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuel. HVO (BS
EN 15940 standard) is 100% renewable and offers
a 90% reduction in CO 2 .
Rob says, “We run a small
EV (Electric Vehicle) van for
local deliveries but the larger
Electric vans don’t yet offer
the range we need, so HVO is
a good alternative. Compared
with white diesel, HVO fuels
have benefits for health and
the environment. Air pollution
is drastically reduced, and
it’s much safer if there’s an
accidental spillage – HVO
biodegrades quickly, whereas
regular diesel will remain
slippery and harmful to the
ecosystem for years.”
Direct Hoist’s switch away from
fossil fuels includes a hire fleet of generators
that run on HVO when powering hoists on sites
without connection to mains electricity.
.
Contact: Rob
T +44 (0)1724 781647
www.directhoist.co.uk
38
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Lucent Lighting: The
Boathouse, Guildford
The Boathouse is a new independent
café on the banks of the River
Wey, which opened its doors in
the summer of 2023 to introduce
Soulspace, an independent members
club, co-working space, event hire
area, and café. The Boathouse Café
serves a seasonal menu made from
local produce, offering a peaceful
haven along the English riverside.
People can take in the beautiful views
over a morning coffee, working
lunch, or celebratory dinner & drinks.
The Boathouse features beautiful,
sustainable design from the Interior
Design agency Raw Clay that uses
natural materials and responsible
sourcing, taking inspiration from
the river. Lighting Design studio
Mistry Lighting created a lighting
scheme which encompasses the
entire building, featuring architectural
lighting, hospitality lighting and
commercial lighting. Mistry Lighting
specified elegant lighting solutions
from Lucent Lighting to meet the
requirements of each distinctive space.
The lighting design enhances the
interior & architectural features of the
building. Layered lighting produces
a creative and inspiring office
environment to work in; the low-level
decorative lighting brings comfort
into the space, while table lamps
provide additional task lighting when
required. Pre-programmed lighting
scenes within meeting rooms grant
the user full flexibility to change the
colour temperature and intensity of
light levels to suit their requirements.
The Boathouse Café is cleverly
illuminated to bring out the stunning
architectural and interior features
of the space, providing an ambient
atmosphere for drinks, and dining
and accommodating events held in
the restaurant.
The architectural lighting has
specifically been designed to use
tuneable white lighting that changes
colour and intensity throughout the
day to reflect what is happening
outside. Office lighting plays a crucial
role in health and well-being, as it can
significantly impact various aspects
of both physical and mental health.
www.lucent-lighting.com
Lighting an
artist’s vision
Leading lighting design consultants,
Lighting Design International (LDI)
has played an integral role in creating
an inviting and sophisticated space
at a new location for London’s Alison
Jacques Gallery.
The gallery has expanded its
presence in the capital city with a
new 6,000ft 2 location on Cork Street,
in the uber-chic district of Mayfair.
The site was previously a vacant
concrete shell that lay empty for
several years.
Gallery owner Alison Jacques
partnered with architects Rundell
Associates to create a three-storied
headquarters for the gallery, including
three exhibition spaces. Lighting
Design International was brought into
the project by Rundell Associates,
having successfully collaborated on
many previous occasions.
Alison Jacques had a clear vision for
the gallery: To create a space with no
visual distractions such as staircases
and pillars. Most importantly, it was
vital there needed to be no sense of
being watched for the visitor while
they enjoyed the exhibitions. This
was achieved through the creation of
space with considerable height – an
aspect of the design that has been
delivered by Rundell’s impressive
Lighting & Electrical
transformation of the venue.
The LDI team had an initial focus on
the double-height space, ensuring
it was lit effectively with the right
choices over colour temperature
and colour rendering. Ensuring clean
lines and uninterrupted lighting was
crucial to securing the vision Alison
had for the space.
Adaptability was also an important
element, to allow each artist’s
exhibition to be perfectly illuminated
and the art's unique character to be
showcased and fully appreciated.
The lighting scheme has therefore
been developed to give the gallery
maximum lighting flexibility within
the minimalist architectural volumes.
www.lightingdesigninternational.com
Global lighting manufacturer with over
100 years of experience
Great British Lighting is a specialist lighting manufacturer with a reputation
and portfolio established over the last 100 years. Our work is primarily in
the manufacture of decorative light fittings for Public Buildings, Cathedral,
Museums and Theatres and International Theme Parks: from one-off
reproductions to large scale manufacture. All items are manufactured
and assembled at their premises in Fleetwood, Lancashire.
With an archive of over 35,000 products, drawings and specifications, Great
British Lighting can reproduce almost any luminaire from the last century
and earlier, employing the latest CAD technology coupled with traditional
craft skills. Great British Lighting also offers bespoke metalwork service
producing high quality items such as balustrade, ecclesiastical fittings
and door furniture.
Great British Lighting offer a comprehensive cleaning and restoration service,
working sensitively on conservation projects to bring lighting and metalwork
back to its original glory.
Recently completed the refurbishment of existing lighting at Rochdale
Town Hall.
Please visit www.greatbritishlighting.co.uk
sales@greatbritishlighting.co.uk | 01253 873503
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 39
Fire Safety
27 firms secure a spot
on vital £20m fire
safety framework
A wide range of businesses
have secured a place on a major
eight-figure framework aimed at
safeguarding social housing and
public buildings and their occupiers.
This follows a competitive process
conducted by the Scottish
Procurement Alliance (SPA) to invite
a pool of businesses to tender for a
place on its Fire Safety framework,
known as FS2.
Crucially, the framework addresses
the assessment and remediation of
cladding on public buildings, an issue
of national importance following the
2017 Grenfell Tower disaster that
resulted in 72 fatalities.
The 27 successful companies now
have the potential to be awarded
contracts directly and through
mini-competitions worth up to £20m
combined value.
Lesley Anderson, Regional Director
for SPA, said, “This framework
will empower councils, social
landlords, the NHS, and a multitude
of other public sector organisations
to efficiently and cost-effectively
maintain and upgrade buildings,
ensuring they offer warm,
comfortable, and safe living spaces
that prioritise the protection of
human life and property against the
risks of fire.
“Our fire safety framework provides
a firm reassurance to public
organisations that any work or
services they instruct will be carried
out by proven, fully qualified experts
who adhere to the most rigorous
up-to-date standards and have gone
through their paces to achieve a
place.”
www.scottishprocurement.scot/
frameworks/property-protectionand-maintenance/fire-safety-fs2
The need for specialised
lithium-ion battery fire
extinguishers in schools
The increased use of lithium-ion
batteries in schools, powering
devices like laptops and tablets, has
led to a significant rise in fire risks.
UK fire services responded to 46%
more battery-related fires in 2023,
with injuries and fatalities linked to
these incidents. The danger lies in
thermal runaway, where a battery
enters an uncontrollable,
self-heating state, due
to factors like damage
from overcharging.
This triggers a chain
reaction, leading to
difficult-to-extinguish
fires and toxic gas
emissions.
The Regulatory Reform
(Fire Safety) Order 2005
now acknowledges lithiumion
batteries in fire risk assessments,
requiring schools to update their
safety protocols. It’s imperative the
designated ‘responsible person’
within the school oversees these
efforts, ensuring compliance and
protection for students, staff, and
visitors. Safeguarding educational
environments from lithium-ion
battery fires is a legal and moral
imperative.
To address this, it’s vital schools
adopt robust fire safety measures,
which may include installing lithiumion
battery fire extinguishers,
specifically designed to tackle
these exact fires efficiently and
effectively. CheckFire’s
CommanderEDGE LFX
lithium-ion battery fire
extinguisher range is
tailored to handle the
unique risks posed by
these batteries, making
it a critical addition to
school safety equipment.
This water-based fire
extinguisher discharges
a foam-like substance
that not only effectively
douses flames, but also absorbs
heat, disrupting the thermal
runaway process and preventing
further battery cells from igniting.
For more information on the LFX
extinguisher’s capabilities, visit
CheckFire’s website.
marketing@checkfire.co.uk
Internet Security
HID Signo readers deliver secure path to GovPass
compliance for UK government facilities
Industry-leading readers provide seamless integration,
security and compliance with UK regulations
HID, a worldwide leader in trusted
identity solutions, announces that
its Signo Readers seamlessly
integrate with the UK government’s
GovPass standard, built on open
standards for enhanced security
and flexibility.
GovPass, the most secure
government pass to date according
to the UK government’s website,
leverages open standards to ensure
interoperability across different
suppliers. Leveraging the UK
government’s standard for card
encryption and HID’s pioneering
expertise in Open Supervised
Device Protocols, Signo Readers
underwent rigorous evaluation,
testing, and certification to deliver enhanced
security and compliance for government
facilities.
As more government departments adopt the
GovPass standard, HID Signo readers offer a
reliable and efficient path to compliance.
“HID is committed to providing innovative
solutions that support the UK government’s
open standards approach to secure identity
management,” said Spencer Marshall,
Head of Europe at HID. “Our Signo Readers
offer a compelling option for organisations
seeking to achieve GovPass compliance while
enhancing overall security.”
HID Signo Readers with GovPass
compliance offer:
s Security by design – The readers
were designed with the UK
Governments standard for card
encryption and HID’s Secure
Access Module for storing
keys, providing the best-inclass
security for government
premises.
s Certified reliability – HID
Signo readers have undergone
rigorous evaluation, testing and
certification to meet all required
GovPass standards.
s Agnostic protocol – Seamlessly
integration with existing
infrastructure, regardless
of Wiegand or OSDP
communications.
s Path to migration – Users can smoothly
transition to HID’s multi-technology Signo
Readers, supporting custom profiles that
meet GovPass Standards.
www.hidglobal.com
40
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Abloy UK’s eCLIQ has
UK Gold standard
Abloy UK is proud to announce
its eCLIQ Electronic Key/Cylinder
Locking System has achieved
Gold standard certification in
both SS504:2024 Smart Locks for
Domestic and Similar Building and
SS312:2024 Cylinders for Locks
from Sold Secure, making eCLIQ the
only mechatronic cylinder platform
to receive the prestigious Secure
Connected Device accreditation
from Secured by Design (SBD).
The eCLIQ system offers
programmable keys and secure
locking cylinders that are tailored
for environments such as
universities, schools, hospitals,
and accommodations. Designed
to replace traditional master key
systems, eCLIQ delivers both
security and flexibility to its users.
The SBD Secure Connected
Device accreditation, developed in
consultation with the Department for
Science, Innovation and Technology
(DSIT), enables companies to assess
products against all 13 provisions of
the ETSI EN 303 645 standard. This
certification not only demonstrates
compliance with legislation but also
safeguards products and customers
against evolving cyber needs.
With the rise of consumer IoT
products, including safety-relevant
devices like door locks, home
automation systems, and smart
home assistants, ensuring robust
security measures is paramount.
Compliance with the Product
Security and Telecommunications
Infrastructure Act 2022 (PSTIA
2022) is also critical, highlighting
the critical need for businesses to
ensure adherence to its provisions.
This legislation sets stringent
requirements aimed at enhancing
consumer protection and cyber
security across the UK market.
For further information on products
and services available from Abloy
UK, visit https://bit.ly/3RsZcUP
or email: info@abloy.co.uk or call
01902 364500.
Enfield Speciality Doors
completes project
A rundown office and warehouse
building completely transformed
into a modern, BREEAM-rated
headquarters for global tech
company Atlas Copco has been
fitted with more than 120 internal fire
doors from Enfield Speciality Doors.
Atlas Copco briefed specialist
design and build contractors Habit
Action on a complete fit out project
to convert its 55,000ft 2 building in
Hemel Hempstead into a modern,
environmentally conscious
workplace, focused on employee
wellbeing and collaboration.
To achieve this, Habit Action stripped
the original building back to its shell
and reimagined it from the inside
out. Every door had to be replaced
and Enfield Speciality Doors was
appointed as a key supply partner to
meet the complex demands of the
project, while ticking the boxes for
cost, delivery and lead-time.
The company supplied 126 fire doors
in total, delivered over 3-4 phases.
This included custom-made timber
flush door specifications in full and
standard heights – the tallest were
2,638mm high – with FD30 or FD60
ratings. Most of the doors were
supplied with an ash veneer finish
with concealed lipping to blend in
with the ‘biophilia’ inspired interior
design – creating a connection with
nature through the use of natural
materials, texture and tones.
Sustainability was an integral part
of the Cat A and Cat B BREEAM
accredited project, which included
the installation of solar panels,
electric vehicle charging stations,
and a central staircase created
from cross-laminated timber – a
material with very low amounts of
sequestered carbon. To help achieve
the BREEAM accreditation, Enfield
Speciality Doors provided full FSC
certification for its doors.
For more information about bespoke
fire doors for commercial projects,
contact Enfield Speciality Doors at:
sales@enfielddoors.co.uk or call
020 3199 6800.
JELD-WEN supports
Golden Thread in data
pin doorset launch
One of the UK’s leading doorset
manufacturers, JELD-WEN has
launched a new data pin solution
that will promote greater fire safety
compliance among customers.
The new data pin, provided by Door
Data Systems, will now be installed
across every Certifire doorset
by JELD-WEN, allowing for the
Golden Thread of information to be
implemented at the earliest stage.
Offering an advanced level of digital
recording and data collection for
fire doorsets in commercial and
multi-occupancy buildings, the
pins will enhance traceability and
enable individuals in positions of
responsibility to demonstrate a
comprehensive approach to fire
door compliance.
Fitted in the hinge side of the door
during the manufacturing process,
the pin will provide immediate
access to its certification, technical
documentation, installation guides,
warranties and inspection reports.
These records are linked to a stateof-the-art
system, whereby data is
Doors & Windows
Bespoke fire doors,
frames, windows
Founded in 2014,
Pandor is a Bespoke
Door and Panel
Manufacturer with over
40 years’ experience
in the door and panel
industry.
Whether you’re looking
for or in need of a
unique, challenging,
different or normal
requirement, Pandor
has excellent customer
service, expert knowhow
and industry
experience to deliver
exactly to your specifications.
Pandor’s extensive portfolio includes
fire doors and door sets – certified
to FD30/FD60/FD90/FD120 as
required, acoustic doors, joinery and
panelling, each made to your sizes
and finished either clear or in paint
as required. Each product comes
manufactured to superlative quality
with the upmost attention to detail
and delivered to you in the shortest
lead times.
Manufacturing out of its factory
in Sittingbourne, Kent, Pandor
has high-quality state of the art
machinery helping to achieve the
FD120 fire door test at 140 minutes!
best standard of manufacturing.
From the Holzher 5 axis CNC twin
bed router to heavy duty sanding
machines, veneer presses and
lipping & edge banding technology,
Pandor can achieve maximum
throughput, competitive lead times
and accurate, high-quality standards
to rival any large-scale competitor.
Quality, Service, more Quality and
more Service. Proud manufacturers
of BM TRADA Q Mark Scheme Fire
doors and doorsets.
T 020 8279 7611
mike@pandor.ltd
pandorltd@hotmail.com
https://pandor.ltd
stored and available via a free-todownload
app.
To further enhance the user
experience, data is presented in
a clear and easy-to-read central
dashboard, meaning no specialist
training is required, while features
such as scheduled reminders can
support building management in
future fire door maintenance. A
number of easy-to-follow videos
will ensure best practice is achieved
during the installation stage of the
Golden Thread process.
More info on data pin solution:
www.jeld-wen.co.uk/door-data-pin
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 41
Classifieds
Waste Management Window Cleaning Commercial Cleaning
Tree Consultancy Services
Screws & Fixings
Ventilation Specialist
01423 322371
info@barnesassociates.co.uk
www.barnesassociates.co.uk
TREE SURVEYS
ADVANCED
ASSESSMENTS
PLANNING &
DEVELOPMENT
LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
Joinery
Security Solutions
Caustic Washout Solutions
01799 599995
dee@bluerunltd.co.uk www.bluerunltd.co.uk
NeutraliZer CO 2
Caustic Washout Solution
Fixings
SWIFIX
AWARD-
WINNING
FIXINGS FOR
EWI & MMC
Mowing Systems
Fixings are available from
www.swifix.co.uk and from
various distributors and builders’
merchants throughout the UK
Automated Gates, Barriers
& Access Control
T 01442 253341
info@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
Site Management
ModCon Cabin Trader,
the Modular, Portable
Building & Plant
Industry related,
Resale/Auction website
Steel AV Cabins • Smoking Shelters • Chemical
Stores & Storage Units • Staircases & Steps •
Effluent Tanks • Water Bowsers • Turnstiles
www.modconcabintrader.com
T +44 (0)333 404 8822
alan@modconcabintrader.co.uk
www.modconcabins.co.uk
Sealing Solutions
Service Sealing Solutions is
the sole UK distributor for the
sealing industry’s top pioneering
manufacturers: DOYMA and HKD
01422 363462 www.smartstormgroup.com
Hinges
QUALITY HINGES FOR OVER 200 YEARS
AND A NUMBER OF BESPOKE SOLUTIONS
GOLDWASSALLHINGES.CO.UK
Heating & Supply Technology
Outstanding
system
solutions
‘Dedicated to offer the best mowing system
for maintaining large area turfgrass’
Please visit www.ecoclipper.com
+31 (0)646753560 info@ecoclipper.com
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd
For more information, please call
us on 01952 510050 or visit
www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
www.reflex-winkelmann.com/en
42
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9
Sustainable Building
Gutter & Roof Refurb Systems
Classifieds
Underfloor Heating
01743 298001
www.easyflow.org.uk
Environmental Consultants
Contact: Graham Parry
+44 (0)118 971 0000
www.accon-uk.com
We specialise in air quality, noise,
vibration, lighting, flood risk environmental
assessment, contaminated land and EIA
Control Solutions
Activation | Monitoring |
Supervision & Control Solutions
Construction Software
Liquid Waterproofing
ARBOFLEX ® PU Liquid
Waterproofing You Can Rely On
Underfloor Heating &
Liquid Floor Screed
Specialists across the UK
Thousands of Quality Products
Mudfords
Bags, Tarpaulins, Hessian & Jute,
Nets, Straps & Slings, Rope &
Cord, Custom Made, Haulage,
Cleaning & More
www.mudfords.co.uk
Waterproof Floor Outlet
0203 286 7949
www.simonbox.co.uk
GSM Diallers
GSM Switches
GSM Intercoms
sales@gsm-activate.co.uk
www.gsm-activate.co.uk
Water Heaters
01623 627285
info.uk@ccm-europe.com
www.ccm-europe.com/gb/
Safety Consultants
Simonbox IP66
Waterproof Floor Outlet
Architectural Hardware
Built Environmental Safety, Health
& Wellbeing Consultancy
+353 (0)1 611 1556
info@dconsafety.com www.dconsafety.com
020 8648 1500
sales@frelan.co.uk
www.frelanhardware.co.uk
Commercial Ventilation
Meters & Metering Equipment
Electric Vehicles
BFN is sponsored by CheckedSafe – see them on pages 8-9 43