Safety, Fire and Security Journal Issue 303

SAFETY,
FIRE &
SECURITY
JOURNAL
October/November • Issue 303
Yeoman Shield
6
Setting the
standard in
hazardous
material storage
Pages 4-5
DRLC
Hochiki Europe
10
11

Editor’s Comments
elcome to the October/
WNovember edition of Safety,
Fire & Security Journal! In this issue,
we showcase a curated selection of
features on innovative companies
across diverse industries, exploring
the technologies and solutions that
are shaping a smarter, and safer
future.
Safety Unlimited has been named
our Hazardous Material Storage
Company of the Month. As one of
the UK’s most trusted specialists
in the safe handling, storage,
and containment of hazardous
and highly flammable liquids, the
company is recognised for both
the strength of its product range
SAFETY,
FIRE &
SECURITY
JOURNAL
and its dedication to
supporting customers
throughout every stage
of hazardous material
management. (See
pages 4-5.)
In healthcare
environments, safety is
paramount. Hospitals, care homes,
and mental health facilities rely on
meticulous planning and robust
systems to protect the people
within them. On page 6, we present
an insightful feature exploring why
Yeoman Shield is a trusted partner
for fire door services and safety.
On page 14, we explore Spark
On the Cover
Care’s latest addition: Silver Shield.
Far more than just another falldetection
sensor, Silver Shield is
the result of years of dedicated
research and development in
precision monitoring. As a care
technology specialist, Spark
Care is proud to be the exclusive
UK and Ireland partner for this
breakthrough solution, which is set to become
the next major advancement in fall detection
and human-sensing technology.
Other topics include: Cleaning & Hygiene, Fire
Safety, Fire Doors, Working from Height News, Fall
Protection, Health & Safety.
Share all news:
nicolayoxall@sfsjournal.com
Contents
Nicola Tromans
Editor & Office Manager
6
10
4
11
12
14
Contacts
Editor & Office Manager, Nicola Tromans – 0121 550 4593
nicolayoxall@sfsjournal.com
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
Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial based.
To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 4593.
SFS is sponsored by
DRLC –
see them on
page 10

Hazardous Material Storage Company of the Month
Setting the standard in ha
In this issue of Safety, Fire and
Security we have featured Safety
Unlimited as our Hazardous Material
Storage Company of the Month
For more than 37 years, Safety
Unlimited has established itself as
one of the UK’s most trusted names
in the safe handling, storage, and
containment of hazardous and highly
flammable liquids. In an industry where
precision engineering and regulatory
compliance are non-negotiable, the
company has built its reputation on
delivering robust, dependable solutions
that protect people, property, and the
environment.
From its extensive manufacturing
base, Safety Unlimited produces a
comprehensive portfolio of storage
and containment systems designed
to meet the ever-evolving demands
of environmental and Health & Safety
legislation. At the heart of this range
are the company’s bulk storage units for
205-litre drums and IBCs, engineered
with the rigour and attention to detail
that hazardous material management
requires. Each unit is fully bunded to
contain leaks, finished inside and out
with chemical-resistant polyurethane
paint, and equipped with both high and
low flame-arrested ventilation to reduce
vapour hazards. Sliding or roller-shutter
doors provide secure access, while
fully galvanised roofs and integrated
rain gutters ensure long-term corrosion
resistance – an essential advantage
for organisations storing flammable
materials outdoors.
Beyond these flagship units, Safety
Unlimited’s product range spans safety
cabinets, spill pallets, polyethylene
containment systems, safety cans,
absorbent materials, spill kits, and
an extensive selection of PPE. Their
Relocatable Safety Stores—engineered for
dependable fire protection and compliant
storage – provide an adaptable, modular
solution for sites that must balance risk,
regulatory obligations, and operational
realities.
Their specialised cabinet ranges further
demonstrate the company’s attention
to durability and compliance. Acid and
chemical cabinets are finished in a white
full epoxy powder coat for acid and
corrosion resistance, with full-length
stainless-steel hinges and concealed
locking mechanisms that offer additional
protection. Flammable liquid cabinets are
finished in grey stove enamel and fitted
with nickel-plated hinges, while pesticide
and agrochemical cabinets feature highand
low-level ventilation and labelling
that meets current environmental and
safety legislation. The company also
provides radiation cabinets with secure
concealed locking systems and louvred
doors for the safe storage of low-level
radioactive materials.
What truly sets Safety Unlimited apart is
its commitment to supporting customers
throughout the full lifecycle of hazardous
material management. The company
recognises that even the most advanced
equipment is only as effective as the
systems, training, and readiness behind
it. To that end, Safety Unlimited offers
a comprehensive Spill Management
Programme that includes certified
spill kit training, spill kit management
services, and tailored environmental
risk assessments. This approach helps
organisations not only meet compliance
requirements but actively strengthen their
safety culture and operational resilience.
Their spill kits are designed for fast,
intuitive use, featuring clear instructions,
content checklists, and simple reorder
documentation. Kits can be tailored for
oil, chemical, or general maintenance
applications, ensuring that customers
have the right equipment exactly where it
is needed.
Another key differentiator for Safety
Unlimited is its unwavering focus on
thoughtful project design — a principle
central to the company’s dedication to
4
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

zardous material storage
operate under increasing pressure:
tighter regulations, heightened fire risk
awareness, and the expectation of
responsible environmental stewardship.
Safety Unlimited responds with
equipment built to withstand demanding
conditions and with the knowledge,
support, and training that empower
customers to manage these materials
safely and confidently.
In the broader safety landscape, where
the consequences of inadequate storage
or insufficient training can be severe,
Safety Unlimited’s integrated approach
represents a model of best practice.
Their ability to combine engineered
solutions with practical, on-site support
underscores a simple truth: effective
hazardous material management is
not just about storage – it is about
preparedness.
Recently, Safety Unlimited announced
a new partnership with Phoenix
Safe Company, further reinforcing its
commitment to quality. The partnership
enables Safety Unlimited to offer
Phoenix’s new range of Lithium-Ion
Battery Safes, delivering market-leading
protection for the safe storage and
charging of lithium-ion batteries.
face new regulatory and environmental
challenges, companies like Safety
Unlimited will play an increasingly
vital role. With decades of experience,
a commitment to compliance, and an
expanding suite of products and services,
they remain a steady and authoritative
presence in a sector where reliability truly
matters.
T 0845 450 1415
sales@safetyunlimited.co.uk
www.safetyunlimited.co.uk
creating high-quality, reliable products.
By working closely with customers,
the company aims not only to meet
expectations but to exceed them.
What emerges from Safety Unlimited’s
long track record is a picture of a
manufacturer that understands the
realities faced by its clients. Many
organisations that handle flammable
liquids and hazardous substances
Built with reinforced double-wall
construction, multipoint locking, and
advanced fire insulation, the BS1940
Series provides tested protection from
both internal and external fire events,
capable of containing even the most
severe thermal runaway scenarios. With
capacities of up to 22,500Wh (BS1946
double-door), these safes are ideal for
police, emergency services, oil and gas,
utilities, and other high-demand sectors.
By combining Phoenix Safe Company’s
engineering excellence with Safety
Unlimited’s expertise in hazardous
material storage, customers now have
access to a fully certified, market-leading
solution for lithium-ion battery safety.
“Protecting people, property, and
business continuity is at the heart of
everything we do,” said Gary Wiley,
Managing Director. “The Phoenix Battery
Commander Pro BS1940 Series provides
our clients with independently certified
assurance, ensuring the highest levels of
fire safety where lithium-ion batteries are
in use.”
As industries continue to evolve and
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10 5

Fire Doors
Fire door safety in healthcare:
Why Yeoman Shield should
be your trusted partner
I
The critical role of fire doors
n healthcare environments, safety is
paramount. Hospitals, care homes and
mental health facilities are places where
lives depend on meticulous planning and
robust systems. Among these, fire doors
play a vital role in protecting patients, staff
and visitors. They slow the spread of fire
and smoke, safeguard escape routes and
ultimately save lives. But fire doors only
perform as intended when they are properly
maintained and inspected.
So, how often should fire doors be checked?
And why is partnering with a specialist
like Yeoman Shield the smartest choice for
healthcare providers?
Legal duties and best practice
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety)
Order 2005, building owners and managers
have a clear legal responsibility to ensure fire
safety equipment –
including fire doors
– is maintained in
full working order.
Compliance isn’t
optional; it’s a legal
requirement.
Best practice
guidance, such as BS
9999, recommends
inspections every six
months for healthcare
premises. However, in high-traffic areas like
corridors, wards, and communal spaces,
checks may need to be quarterly or even
monthly. These environments are demanding,
and fire doors endure constant use from
wheelchairs, trolleys and equipment. Without
regular inspections, small defects can quickly
escalate into major safety risks.
Why inspections matter
Fire doors are not just another fixture – they
are a frontline defence in an emergency. Even
minor issues, such as worn seals, misaligned
hinges, or faulty closers, can compromise
their ability to contain fire and smoke. Regular
inspections ensure:
s Doors close and latch correctly
s Smoke and intumescent seals are intact
s Gaps remain within safe tolerances
s Hinges, closers, and locks function properly
The reliability of a single fire door could
determine whether an evacuation route
remains safe during a fire. For healthcare
providers, this is not just about compliance –
it’s about protecting lives.
Who should carry out inspections?
Inspections must be performed by a
competent person with specialist knowledge
of fire door standards. While basic in-house
checks are useful, they cannot replace
professional inspections. Qualified specialists
provide assurance that every detail is covered,
and remedial works are completed to the
highest standard.
This is where Yeoman
Shield excels. Many
healthcare providers
across the UK already
trust us to deliver
scheduled inspections,
repairs and fire
door installations –
because we combine
expertise with
efficiency.
Why Yeoman Shield is your preferred partner
At Yeoman Shield, we don’t just inspect fire
doors – we offer a complete fire door solution
tailored to healthcare environments. Our
services include:
s Professional Fire Door Inspections &
Condition Reports – Detailed assessments
carried out by qualified experts, ensuring
full compliance with legal and safety
standards.
s FIRAS-Certified Remedial Works &
New Installations – From minor repairs
to full replacements, our team delivers
quality workmanship backed by industry
certification.
s Impact Protection Solutions – Healthcare
settings are tough on doors. Our innovative
protection systems reduce damage from
wheelchairs, trolleys and equipment,
extending door life and reducing long-term
costs.
The Yeoman Shield advantage
What sets us apart is our ability to provide a
full internal wall and door protection package,
supported by a fully employed installation
team. This means:
s No reliance on subcontractors – every
project is handled by our own skilled
professionals.
s Seamless integration of fire door safety
with wall and door protection systems for a
complete solution.
s Minimal disruption to your operations,
thanks to our efficient scheduling and
healthcare-specific expertise.
By choosing Yeoman Shield, you’re not just
meeting compliance requirements – you’re
investing in durability, safety & peace of mind.
Staying safe and compliant
Fire door safety is an ongoing process, not
a one-off task. In healthcare environments,
where patient care and safety are critical,
keeping fire doors fully operational is both a
legal duty & a moral responsibility. Partnering
with Yeoman Shield ensures you have a trusted
expert by your side – one who understands the
unique challenges of healthcare settings and
delivers solutions that work.
Ready to make fire door safety simple and
stress-free?
Contact Yeoman Shield today for expert
advice or to book an inspection:
T 0113 279 5854
www.yeomanshield.com/fire-door-services
6
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

Working from Height News
Lifting productivity
Project overview
large-scale agricultural
A construction project on the East
Coast required dependable powered
access solutions to assist with the
development of multiple structures.
Star Platforms was chosen to supply
a fleet of diesel and electric scissor
lifts, supporting the build from
groundworks through to internal
fit-outs, ensuring safe and productive
working at height.
Challenge
The site conditions
demanded durable
and responsive access
equipment capable
of performing across
variable terrain. With
multiple structures
under construction,
the client needed
machines that could
deliver consistent
performance and
minimise downtime.
Equipment reliability was essential
to maintaining tight construction
timelines.
Solution
Following a comprehensive
evaluation of the site requirements,
Star Platforms supplied:
s 35 x Diesel Rough Terrain Scissor
Lifts (Skyjack SJ6826 RT)
s Working Height: 9.92 metres
Food & Drink Safety News
s Platform Capacity: 567kg
s Features: 1.52-metre roll-out
extension deck for increased
workspace and reach
s 15 x Electric Scissor Lifts (Skyjack
SJIII 3219)
s Working Height: 7.8 metres
s Platform Capacity: 227kg
s Features: Compact design ideal for
indoor tasks, with a 0.91 metre rollout
extension deck for enhanced
accessibility
The diesel models
were well suited to
external build work
with their robust offroad
capabilities, while
the electric scissor
lifts enabled efficient
manoeuvrability
indoors during the
fit-out phase.
Implementation
The access equipment
was in operation
on-site for ten months, contributing to
key activities including the erection
of structural frames, installation of
cladding and fenestration, and the
fitting of roof components. Ongoing
communication between the Star
Platforms team and site management
helped ensure timely support and
smooth progress throughout.
www.starplatforms.co.uk
New study uncovers
hidden risks
damning new study published
A in PLOS Water reveals that
French drinking water is saturated
with microplastics smaller than 20
micrometers (µm), prompting global
water company Bluewater to call
on governments, regulators, and
industries around the world to act
decisively to protect public health.
These tiny particles, fine enough to
infiltrate human blood and organs,
fall below planned European Union
detection standards, representing a
significant oversight in water safety
regulations.
“If efforts aimed at stopping minuscule
microplastics polluting human
intestines, blood, and other organs
are not fit for task, it raises urgent
questions about regulatory standards
and public health protections,”
says Bluewater founder and CEO
Bengt Rittri. A well-known Swedish
ecopreneur, Mr Rittri warned that
failure to address these shortcomings
could lead to devastating long-term
consequences for human health and
environmental stability worldwide.
Amid mounting evidence about
the human health issues posed by
microplastics, Bluewater – a global
innovation leader in sustainable water
purification and beverage solutions –
urges immediate regulatory updates,
the implementation of advanced
filtration systems, and increased
public awareness to combat
microplastic contamination.
The PLOS Water study revealed that
most microplastics in French bottled
and tap water are undetectable
under current EU standards, which fail
to account for particles smaller than
20µm. While invisible to the naked eye,
these microplastics can breach the
body’s natural defences, accumulate
in vital organs, and potentially trigger
inflammation, toxicity, and chronic
diseases.
www.bluewatergroup.com/en-gb
Henchman’s All Terrain
Telescopic Platform
enchman, the UK’s leading
Hspecialist in safety platforms for
working at height, has announced the
launch of its latest innovation – the All
Terrain Telescopic Platform. Designed
in direct response to industry demand,
this new product combines the
adjustability of a telescopic platform
with the robust stability required for
an uneven or sloped terrain – a longstanding
gap in the
professional access
equipment market.
The All Terrain
Telescopic Platform
is Henchman’s most
versatile platform
to date, created
to meet the needs
of a wide range of
sectors including
construction,
building
maintenance,
facilities management, live events and
horticulture. By offering safe, rapid
access on variable ground conditions,
it enables teams to work efficiently
and with greater flexibility than
traditional podiums, towers or staticframe
platforms.
Available in two sizes – 3 Step and
5 Step – the platform features
independently adjustable legs which
ensure a level working space on
uneven or soft surfaces such as slopes,
steps and verges. The telescopic
height can be adjusted to suit a wide
range of internal and external tasks,
including landscaping, building
maintenance and decorating, window
cleaning and event set up.
Manufactured
from high tensile
aluminium with
auto-locking
pins for secure
adjustment, the
platform is certified
to BSI EN131-7, the
industry's leading
safety standard
for mobile ladders
with platforms.
Owen Simpson,
Managing Director of Henchman,
commented, “We listened carefully
to feedback from professionals who
were frustrated by the limitations
of current telescopic platforms,
particularly when working at varying
height and on uneven terrain.”
www.henchman.co.uk
Alfa Laval expands its
hygienic valve portfolio
lfa Laval is expanding its hygienic
Avalve portfolio by introducing
the Unique SSV Pressure Relief Valve
and the Leakage Detection Butterfly
Valve, alongside new smaller sizes
of the Unique Mixproof CIP and
Unique Mixproof Process valves.
By broadening its range, Alfa Laval
reaffirms its commitment to providing
reliable, highperforming
solutions
that ensure safe
processing, protect
product integrity,
and safeguard
consumers while
addressing the
evolving needs
of the hygienic
industries.
“By prioritising
product and
equipment safety
in combination
with efficiency and
reliability, we continue to support
manufacturers in the dairy, food,
beverage, and home and personal
care industries,” says Paw Kramer,
Portfolio Manager, Valves and
Automation at Alfa Laval. “These
additions provide manufacturers with
greater flexibility to customise valve
solutions to meet their processing
requirements.”
When peak performance under
pressure is critical, the Unique SSV
Pressure Relief Valve protects hygienic
processing lines, particularly those
with positive displacement pumps,
from overpressure. Paired with and
powered by Alfa
Laval ThinkTop®
technology for valve
monitoring and
control, it safeguards
process efficiency,
productivity and
safety. Pressure
relief setpoints are
easy to adjust onsite
to accommodate
changing conditions.
Built on the proven
SSV platform, this
modular valve
shares spare parts
with other Unique
SSV valves, simplifying maintenance
and reducing service costs. Fully
CIP-able regardless of the pressure
setting, the valve ensures reliable
hygiene and performance while
minimising downtime.
www.alfalaval.com
8
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

Health & Safety
DRLC Ltd: Trusted fire safety experts for healthcare
For more than a decade, DRLC has been
a trusted partner in delivering specialist
compliance engineering services to
healthcare providers across the UK. Our
mission is simple: to support safer healthcare
environments through rigorous Fire and
Building Safety expertise.
At the core of our service is our highly
experienced team of Fire Safety consultants,
each fully trained in HTM 05 (Firecode)
and qualified as Authorising Engineers.
This ensures every recommendation we
make is aligned with the unique regulatory,
operational, and clinical demands of
healthcare premises.
DRLC provides a comprehensive suite of
services, including Annual Fire Safety Audits,
ongoing advisory support, and independent
design reviews for new builds and
refurbishment projects. Whether navigating
complex compliance requirements or
enhancing the resilience of existing facilities,
we deliver clear, actionable guidance tailored
to each client’s needs.
We are proud to be approved suppliers
on several key public-sector frameworks,
including the NHS SBS Framework (SBS10509)
for Authorising Engineers, the London
Procurement Partnership, and the NOEPC
framework. These accreditations recognise
our commitment to quality, consistency, and
value.
Integrity, professionalism, and a genuine
desire to help our clients improve remain the
foundation of everything we do at DRLC. Our
goal is to empower healthcare organisations
with confidence in their Fire and Building
Safety standards – today and for the future.
www.drlc.uk
10
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

Fire Safety
We do fire, better
F
ounded in Tokyo in 1918 by a consortium of
Japan’s leading insurance firms, Hochiki
has spent more than a century refining its
mission: to protect people and property from
fire with unrelenting quality and innovation.
That heritage of care and reliability transcended
borders in 1993, when Hochiki Europe set up its
headquarters and manufacturing facility in
Gillingham, Kent, marking the start of a new
chapter in life-safety provision for the UK,
Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India.
From its Kent base, the company engineers
and ships EN54-approved fire detection
and emergency lighting systems, including
addressable and conventional detectors,
call-points, sounders, visual alarm devices, I/O
interfaces – all built around its powerful ESP
intelligent open-protocol platform. But Hochiki’s
commitment stretches beyond its hardware:
the firm offers technical support, specification
guidance, CPD-accredited training via its
Training Academy and end-to-end service from
project design to ongoing maintenance.
For UK specifiers and facilities teams, Hochiki’s
systems offer three key advantages. First, the
fully digital ESP open protocol provides longterm
flexibility by avoiding lock-in to a single
panel manufacturer or service provider. This
means systems can be upgraded in phases and
existing Hochiki field devices and cabling can
often be retained, a major benefit for occupied
buildings and projects working within tight
budgets.
Second, Hochiki delivers true whole-system
capability. Rather than supplying isolated
components, the company provides a complete
suite of EN-approved life-safety products,
intelligent sensors, call points, sounders and
VADs, interfaces and hybrid wireless devices
all of which can be integrated with a powerful
panel platform such as Latitude. This gives
consultants and facilities managers a unified
ecosystem for cause-and-effect programming,
networking, monitoring and ongoing
maintenance.
The third advantage is reliability with reduced
false alarms. ESP devices use adjustable
sensitivity, drift compensation, alarm verification
and advanced multi-sensor technology,
including Hochiki’s most advanced ACD multisensor
that monitors smoke, heat and CO, to
deliver accurate detection while minimising
nuisance activations. For building operators,
this means fewer unnecessary evacuations,
less operational disruption and greater trust
in the system’s performance. These benefits
are strengthened by Hochiki’s century-long
manufacturing heritage and its reputation for
producing robust, dependable solutions for realworld
environments.
“Our ESP intelligent range is the backbone of
our addressable systems, offering robust, fast
digital communication, flexible addressing,
rapid response times and features designed to
minimise false alarms and simplify maintenance.
Also, our Latitude control panel platform is
a powerful, modular fire panel suitable for
everything from single-building installations to
complex networks, with extensive cause-andeffect
options with support for both EN and
UL-approved systems.
“Together, with our advanced ACD multisensor,
these products illustrate how a Hochiki
ESP system can protect an entire site, from
straightforward office fitouts to complex
healthcare, education or multi-block residential
projects, within a single, coherent architecture,”
added Shinsuke Kubo (pictured above),
Managing Director of Hochiki Europe.
Fire detection and life safety are the focus of
every product and service that Hochiki produce.
Considering this, Shinsuke explained some recent
changes within the company, “Recent years
have seen us invest heavily in how we support
the UK and wider EMEA market. For example, we
have expanded and modernised our Training
Academy and online training offer, so that
installers, engineers and consultants can up-skill
on ESP systems, Latitude and our emergency
lighting ranges more easily, wherever they are
based.
“We have also strengthened our technical and
customer support teams in Gillingham to provide
greater assistance and project support. We will
continue to refine and extend our ESP device
portfolio and emergency lighting ranges, with
a particular focus on energy efficiency and
simpler maintenance for Facilities Managers.
These changes are all about helping our partners
deliver better life safety outcomes on site.”
As we look towards 2030, Hochiki’s focus is on
continuing to evolve as a truly global life safety
organisation, while staying true to its core
purpose: protecting lives and safeguarding
property.
“We are investing in three key areas. Firstly,
strengthening our global footprint so that
engineers, consultants and building owners
receive consistent product quality, support and
training wherever their projects are located.
We are also advancing our ESG commitments,
from more energy-efficient product design and
responsible manufacturing practices through
to supporting more sustainable approaches
to refurbishment and upgrade. And lastly, we
will continue to enhance the tools, training
and technical guidance we offer, so that those
designing, installing and maintaining our systems
can do so with confidence in an increasingly
demanding regulatory environment.”
Hochiki’s long-term direction is about stability
and trust: being the manufacturer that its
partners know will be here, still innovating and
still supporting the systems they rely on many
years from now. For many building and facilities
professionals, the real challenge is not choosing
a single detector or panel, it is delivering a
joined-up, whole-building life safety strategy
that will still be fit for purpose in 10 or 15 years’
time.
In closing, Shinsuke said, “Hochiki Europe is here
as a long-term partner. With ESP open protocol,
advanced devices like the ACD multi-sensor,
powerful panel platforms such as Latitude and
our emergency lighting systems, we can support
complete, EN-approved life safety designs from
concept through to operation and ongoing
upgrade. We are always happy to work with
consultants, installers and FMs at an early
stage to advise on system architecture, device
selection and future upgrade paths.”
T 01634 260133
info@hochikieurope.com
www.hochikieurope.com
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10 11

Cleaning & Hygiene
BioClad ® antimicrobial PVC
I
The challenge of microbial growth
ndustries operating in public and
healthcare environments require highperformance,
hygienic surfaces that
can withstand rigorous use. Polyvinyl
Chloride (PVC) is widely used in healthcare,
construction, and transport industries for
its durability, corrosion resistance, chemical
stability, and cost-effectiveness. However,
PVC is vulnerable to microbial colonisation,
leading to odours, staining, and material
degradation over time. It can also emit volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), especially under
thermal or UV stress.
BioClad® and BioCote® antimicrobial
solutions
BioClad® offers a range of antimicrobial
solutions, including wall cladding and
BioPods, that integrate BioCote® antimicrobial
technology for long-lasting protection.
Working with BioCote® ensures thorough
and optimal integration of antimicrobial
technologies in manufacturing, offering
permanent protection against microbes that
compromise PVC quality and durability.
Table 1: Third-party laboratory antimicrobial efficacy testing results
Table 2: Post ageing samples
12
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

solutions with BioCote ®
This built-in protection provides:
s Continuous defence against bacteria,
mould, and yeast growth
s Reduced risk of staining, odours, and
material degradation.
s Lower maintenance requirements and longterm
cost savings.
s Extended product lifespan, making
BioClad® a smart investment.
Each sample was then tested against MRSA & E.
coli, two bacteria commonly found in healthcare
and hygiene-critical settings. Table 1 displays the
test results, only the BioClad® sample treated
with BioCote® technology demonstrated strong
antibacterial performance after ageing. In this
test, a result listed as ‘GROWTH’ means bacteria
continued to multiply on the sample after 24
hours of contact.
BioCote® antimicrobial technology: Tested,
effective, trust
To assess the long-term performance of
BioClad® antimicrobial cladding, independent
third-party testing was commissioned by
BioClad®. Samples from BioClad® and
several market-leading cladding brands
were submitted and tested to the ISO 22196
standard for antibacterial efficacy.
Before testing, all samples underwent an
accelerated ageing process: 1,128 hours at
65°C in dry heat. This process is essential to
remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
such as hydrochloric acid (HCl), which are
naturally released from freshly manufactured
PVC. Without ageing, test results can be
skewed, as bacteria may be reduced by
these short-lived chemicals rather than the
antimicrobial additive itself. Ageing ensures
the test reflects how a product will perform in
real-life environments over time.
Mrs Buckét secures
major cleaning contract
n a proud celebration of Welsh
Ienterprise, two values-driven
Welsh businesses – Mrs Buckét,
the award-winning commercial
cleaning company, and
Monmouthshire Building Society –
have come together in a brand-new
partnership.
United by a shared commitment to
community, professionalism, and
social value, Mrs Buckét has been
awarded the contract to clean the
majority of Monmouthshire Building
Society’s branches, including its
Newport headquarters.
The contract creates new jobs for
the Swansea-based commercial
cleaning company, as well as
additional hours for some of its
current staff.
It has also of TUPE’d (Transfer
of Undertakings (Protection of
Employment)) two members of the
Building Society’s current cleaning
staff, protecting their jobs and
allowing them to join the Mrs Buckét
workforce.
Mrs Buckét will be cleaning
Monmouthshire Building Society’s
11 branches and agency offices
at Brecon, Risca, Cardiff Queen
Street, Handpost Newport, Caerleon
Road Newport, John Frost Square
Newport, Swansea, Cwmbran,
Chepstow, Monmouth and Caldicot.
This is the second financial services
contract that Mrs Buckét has won
in recent months, as it has also been
appointed to clean a financial office
in Cardiff.
Rachael Flanagan, Mrs Buckét’s CEO
& founder, commented, “It is great
to be working with Monmouthshire
Building Society as it is a business
that shares the same values as we
do – working with & giving back to
the communities in which we work.”
www.mrs-bucket.co.uk
Key Findings:
s BioClad® Treated – 98.80% reduction
against MRSA, 99.88% against E. coli.
s Competitor 2 – 40.93% reduction against
MRSA, but bacterial growth observed for
E. coli.
s Competitor 4 – 83.71% reduction against
MRSA, but bacterial growth observed for
E. coli.
s All other competitors – Bacterial growth
observed for both MRSA and E. coli.
These results suggest that many competitor
products may rely on the short-term
antibacterial effect of unaged PVC, while
BioClad® with BioCote® technology continues
to perform even after VOCs have dissipated
– demonstrating long-lasting antibacterial
protection.
https://bioclad.com
Conan Sammon, MD
of LBC, takes on the
same role at Avisan
BC Exterior Cleaning has
Lacquired a 50% stake in rope
access specialist Avisan, marking
the first step in a wider strategy to
build a group of complementary
businesses across cleaning, facilities
management and maintenance.
The deal sees Conan Sammon,
managing director of LBC, take
on the same role at Avisan, while
Josh Simpson, who founded the
London-based firm, becomes head of
operations. Avisan has built a strong
reputation for delivering high-quality
rope access services to commercial
and residential clients, including
façade cleaning, bird control, safety
system inspections and remedial
works. The acquisition significantly
expands LBC’s capabilities in highlevel
and hard-to-reach building
maintenance.
The two companies have already
collaborated on high-profile projects
including facades at the iconic Savoy
Hotel, The Old Bermondsey Town Hall
& The Edwardian Hotel in Manchester,
demonstrating their ability to deliver
results quickly and with minimal
disruption to occupied buildings.
Founded by Sammon while still at
university, LBC began life as the
London Bin Company, offering a
£2 bin-cleaning service from a
£250 van. It has grown into a £1.5
million-turnover business employing
20 people and delivering a wide
range of exterior cleaning services
to property managers, freeholders
and facilities firms across London and
beyond.
The acquisition of Avisan is the first
in a series of planned investments by
Sammon, who aims to build a group
of specialist firms that work together
to deliver seamless, high-quality
property services.
www.lbcclean.co.uk
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10 13

Fall Protection
Where compassion meets
clever technology
Spark Care specialise in technology that
protects people and supports care teams,
from fall detection and prevention to passive
monitoring, across the UK & Ireland
F
ounded by Nadia
Morris, CEO, an
experienced care
home operations and
governance manager
with a deep passion for
improving lives through
better care, Spark Care
is a care technology
specialist, providing
fall detection, fall
prevention, and passive
monitoring solutions
to care homes, home care providers, supported
living services and housing with care schemes.
Drawing on over two decades of hands-on
experience in both the UK care sector and tech
innovation, Nadia established Spark Care in 2023
to bridge the gap between compassionate care
and modern, meaningful technology. Working
across the UK and Ireland,
supporting care providers
nationwide, Spark Care’s main site
is based in Wiltshire, with another
office in Dublin.
“By having two sites, it has
enabled us to offer handson
support and local insight
across both regions,” said
Nadia. “Spark Care is all about
offering specialist consultations,
technology installations, support,
and training – helping care providers to make
smart choices around future-ready technology
that improves safety,
dignity and operational
efficiency. We are
proud to be firmly
rooted in the health
and social care
technology sector, with
a specialist focus on
elderly care and adult
support services.”
One unique
contributing factor to
Spark Care’s services
is that it is not tied to
one manufacturer or
system. Acting in the
best interest of care
providers, Spark Care
select the best-in-class technology that delivers
real outcomes. This could be anything from
AI-powered fall detection to smart lamps and
sensors that track vital signs. With a focus beyond
flashy technology, Spark Care offers thoughtfully
designed solutions that prioritise dignity, deliver
real impact, and enhance everyday efficiency.
One of its latest additions
includes Silver Shield, powered
by Pontosense, a global leader in
mmWave innovation, Silver Shield
is not just another sensor for use
in fall detection, it is the product
of years of dedicated research
and development in precision
monitoring.
“We’re incredibly proud to be
the UK and Ireland exclusive
partner for Silver Shield, a
groundbreaking fall detection and human sensing
technology. It detects slow, fast and slip-fromchair
falls in real-time, monitors vitals such as
heart and respiratory rate, and offers full room
coverage with zero cameras
or microphones,” said Nadia.
As well as Silver Shield, Spark
Care is also one of only two
UK trusted distributors of
Nobi Smart Lights, a beautiful
ceiling lamp that silently
watches over residents and
automatically calls for help if
a fall is detected.
Products like these are
revolutionary for the future
of care, and can make the
difference between life
and death. Spark Care only
deliver specialised solutions
that reflect the industry’s
best and highest standards,
with products that are solely
designed to transform the care sector and to help
organisations achieve optimal results.
To accommodate a recent shift in client demand,
Spark Care’s team of experts and list of suppliers
are growing rapidly. Nadia expanded, “We now
have Care Technology Consultants covering the
length and breadth of the UK and Ireland, bringing
local knowledge and personalised support to
every region. Plus, as an approved supplier to
the Spectrum Care Purchasing Network, our
technology is now available at reduced pricing
for its members.
“We’re growing fast and expanding our offerings
– including remote monitoring, smart medication
support, and integration with nursecall systems.
Our goal is to help care providers become safer,
smarter, and more sustainable – all while keeping
people at the heart of every solution.
“We’re not just about tech, we’re about people.
Spark Care exists to improve outcomes – and we’ll
never lose sight of the human stories behind every
alert, sensor or system. If you want care-focused,
genuinely helpful advice, we’d love to hear from you.”
Spark Care support care home owners, registered
managers, group directors, supported living
schemes, local authorities, housing associations,
and forward-thinking domiciliary care providers.
So, if you’re responsible for care delivery,
technology, procurement or compliance
– Spark Care can help.
If you’d like to explore how future-ready care
technology could support your service, Spark
Care’s team would are ready to start the
conversation.
T 01635 019608
hello@spark-care.co.uk
https://spark-care.co.uk
14
SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10

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SFS is sponsored by DRLC – see them on page 10 15