December 2019 Newsletter

TrustMark Offers Protection To Households And Tradespeople

Following on from the recent inclusion in the ECO3 regulations, TrustMark is offering an additional level of consumer protection and trade accreditation to both householders and tradespeople looking to do any repair, maintenance or improvement work in or around the home.

In partnership with Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards, the two government organisations are delivering the ‘Trading Standards Approval’ scheme to help consumers gain confidence when looking to employ a trader. The scheme is an accreditation that reassures and protects homeowners that the firm they employ to work in their home complies with TrustMark Government-endorsed quality for workmanship, understands fair trading practices and has consumer protection as an integral part of their business.

The scheme, which is being delivered by local authorities across the UK, gives firms local reassurance with national recognition. It also provides firms with further credibility that they are reputable and have a solid trading history as customers will know they have been thoroughly checked and approved by both Trading Standards and TrustMark to use this accreditation.

Simon Ayers, CEO of TrustMark, comments: “With rising consumer expectations, homeowners are seeking higher levels of service and quality workmanship, resulting in tradespeople having to meet and deliver better standards of work and customer service for every job they do. The Trading Standards Approved scheme isn’t just another ‘badge’ to add to a firm’s website, van and marketing materials, it’s an investment offering great benefits – consumers like the added confidence when seeing businesses that have been ‘approved’ directly by Trading Standards and businesses want to provide a clear message that they can be trusted and relied on.”

Steve Ruddy, Head of Service Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards, adds: “We are keen to help residents find reputable traders to work in their homes. We are proud to work with TrustMark to provide this reassurance to residents and to support local businesses. I think it’s a great example of how organisations can work in partnership to deliver more.”

To join the scheme, firms will need to be TrustMark registered and then they will be able to apply to TrustMark to complete the necessary checks in order to gain the approved accreditation. Trading Standards will carry out a background check, and subject to passing[MME1] [g2] [g3] these safeguards, the firm will then be accredited with trading standards approved status.

The cost of becoming Trading Standards Approved through TrustMark is £90 + VAT per year and is in addition to any Scheme Provider fee.

TrustMark Offers Protection To Households And Tradespeople

BMF backs more stringent water use regulations
More stringent regulations governing personal water use are necessary if rising residential demand is to be met and managed in coming years.

That was the message from the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) to ministers in a consultation that closed just before the general election was called.

Demand for water is increasing due to societal factors, including a rising population. Supply is threatened for several reasons, including increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall, the BMF said in its response to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

DEFRA sought views on whether the current minimum standard of 125 litres per person per day for new homes in England should be changed. The BMF agreed and said the optional standard of 110 litres allowed in the Building Regulations in water-stressed areas ought to apply to all new homes.

Brett Amphlett, BMF policy and public affairs manager, said: “Consumers do not give water a second thought unless there is too much – namely floods – or too little – notably hosepipe bans. Information and advice only go so far. I suspect an unspoken belief held by many is that water is a basic right and residents do not care enough yet to change habits. Until there are financial consequences to water use, rising demand will not be halted by urging people to change behaviour. More stringent Building Regulations on new homes are necessary.”

BMF backs more stringent water use regulations

Source: HPM Magazine

Aico’s Electrical Contractors Handybook Gets New Look

Aico, an expert in residential Fire and Carbon Monoxide Alarms, has updated and given its Electrical Contractors Handybook a brand new look. The Fourth Edition has been designed with the customer in mind. Following comprehensive feedback from customers, the new edition has all the essential information needed to help contractors choose, install and maintain domestic Fire and Carbon Monoxide protection.

The Handybook features the latest standards and legislation and the different types of sensors available across Aico’s extensive range of Fire and Carbon Monoxide products. It has been designed to help customers site alarms correctly and provide assistance with installation.

The Handybook also provides information on the importance of the initial testing of a system following installation and then regular testing on an ongoing basis, as well as maintenance and fault finding.

To make installation and product identification easier the Handybook also details the wide range of accessories available, and how to improve the protection the system provides. Looking for a wiring diagram? The technical details are all included.

Alongside Aico’s new Product Selector and handy pocket-sized guides, customers now have a comprehensive information tool kit to help them with all aspects of alarm installation and testing.

In addition, Aico’s team are always on hand to answer any questions on 01691 664100 or technical.Aico@aico.co.uk.

Visit www.aico.co.uk/technical-support/guides-publications/#navigation to request copies of the new Electrical Contractors Handybook and other publications.

Aico’s Electrical Contractors Handybook Gets New Look

Plans lodged for £30m Teesside indoor ski centre

Plans have been submitted for a £30m indoor snow and leisure centre attraction in Teesside.

Developer Cool Runnings confirmed plans to build the three-storey complex on a seven-acre site at Middlesbrough Dock in Middlehaven.

The Sub Zero centre will feature a main slope spanning 165m x 30m and a 52 x 50m nursery slope for beginners.

Designed by acclaimed architects, FaulknerBrowns the 220,000 sq ft centre will also include indoor skydiving, a climbing wall, soft play area, trampoline park and bowling alley will complete the exhilarating, family-friendly experience.

The adjacent listed dock Clock Tower is being incorporated into the design of the project.

If constructed, Sub Zero would be the seventh snow centre in the UK and the first in the North East.

Plans lodged for £30m Teesside indoor ski centre

London Resort reveals next generation theme park designs

The London Resort has revealed the first glimpse of designs for its planned 500-acre theme park on the Swanscombe peninsular in Kent.

The visuals are the first to be revealed since The London Resort announced its partnerships with the BBC, ITV Studios and, most recently, Paramount Pictures.

It has been designed around six lands offering “next-generation” rides and unique experiences for visitors when it opens in 2024.

Construction is targeted to begin in 2021, subject to planning, and will see an overall investment of £1bn.

The ambitious project, which would cover the area of 136 Wembley stadiums, is being delivered by London Resort Company Holdings, which is owned by the Kuwaiti European Holding Company Group.

“We are creating a first-class theme park. A destination that maximises all the new, immersive and interactive technologies and experiences in the world,” said PY Gerbeau, Chief Executive of London Resort Company Holdings .

He said it would also be one of the most sustainable theme parks on the planet.

Billed as one of the most ambitious theme park projects ever in Europe, the London Resort will be the first European development of its kind to be built from scratch since the opening of Disneyland Paris in 1992.

It will eventually be a two-park resort – the first ‘gate’ will open in 2024 and the second within five years (2029) and it is expected that around 70% of attractions will be undercover.

London Resort reveals next generation theme park designs

Green light for Birmingham’s tallest resi tower

Developer Court Collaboration has received planning approval for its 51-storey One Eastside residential tower

Birmingham City Council’s planning committee has approved the scheme paving the way for construction of the tallest residential tower in the Midlands.

Original plans drew objections from Birmingham Airport chiefs but were amended “to allow for further construction details”.

The £160m scheme includes 667 one and two-bedroom apartments delivered across the main 525ft tower and another 15-storey building.

Features include a gym, yoga room and cinema room, as well as a rooftop dining and bar area in the form of a Sky Lounge.

Anthony McCourt, CEO and founder of Court Collaboration, said: “We’re delighted with the council’s decision to grant planning permission for One Eastside and we hope to be able to confirm a start on site date in the near future.

“Birmingham is going through some incredibly exciting changes and this ambitious scheme will keep Court Collaboration at the very forefront of modern city living, sustainable design and innovative construction.”

Green light for Birmingham’s tallest resi tower

The full SNIPEF & APHC election manifesto can be accessed here.

Brexit overshadowing construction issues

Plumbing and heating professionals across the UK have called on politicians to make room amid the Brexit tumult to focus on critical changes needed to create a resilient and sustainable construction sector.

A joint election manifesto issued by the leading trade bodies for plumbing and heating professionals in Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales highlighted four key areas where change is required.

These included payment abuse, pensions, green economy targets and skills. The changes were aimed at creating a fairer competitive landscape where firms can develop and thrive.

The call to the incoming government has been issued by SNIPEF– the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation – and APHC, the equivalent trade body for the industry in England and Wales.

Together they represent 1,770 businesses and 25,155 plumbing and heating operatives.

SNIPEF and APHC say the bane of payment abuse is causing insolvencies across the sector, while encouraging poor standards of work and a reduction in investment. In addition, it was affecting the mental health of business owners worried about when or even if they will ever be paid for their work.

The trade organisations are urging legislation to impose penalties on serial late payers, while establishing the use of project bank accounts in the public sector. They also want new laws to protect cash retentions.

They are additionally pushing for amendments to current pensions legislation which is having devastating consequences for hundreds of UK plumbing and heating businesses.

“Owners of firms that have provided pensions to their employees through a multi-employer industry scheme are being hit with staggering bills under what is known as Section 75 employer debt,” a joint manifesto stated. “Calculated on a buy-out basis which is expensive, these payments – which are not necessarily required by the pension fund – are burying otherwise financially strong businesses under a mountain of unaffordable liabilities.”

SNIPEF chief executive Fiona Hodgson added: “In the most extreme cases, we are seeing firms fold as a result of these liabilities. But with no incentive for businesses to grow, there is a further economic drag as many more are downsizing, cutting back on investment and declining to take on new apprentices.

“For those now in retirement, these Section 75 payments are putting them under threat of personal bankruptcy. The 2019-20 Pension Schemes Bill does not address any of these unintended consequences, which is why amendments are required to take account of multi-employer industry schemes.”

Meanwhile, to address the on-going skills shortage in the sector, the trade bodies also called for government support for apprenticeships. This includes backing for older entrants, where the costs for employers are higher.

“Plumbing and heating apprentice levels have not recovered from those pre-recession, during which they dropped by half,” APHC chief executive officer John Thompson added. “We are now faced with a skills shortage, and in the light of Brexit the position is only likely to get worse.

“Skills are at the core of our industry, so there are serious long-term consequences for our industry if we don’t address this issue now.”

Brexit overshadowing construction issues

Source: HPM Magazine

IronmongeryDirect survey sheds new light on wellbeing of tradespeople

Too much work, time pressures and unprepared customers – these are the top three causes of stress at work, according to a new survey of almost 600 tradespeople by IronmongeryDirect.

Work-related stress and mental illness now account for over half of all lost work days in the UK*. However, despite this, the survey found that only 11% of tradespeople have taken any time off work in the last year because of mental ill-health. With over a third (34%) reporting regularly feeling stressed, this research paints a worrying picture.

Almost half of the 587 respondents (43%) also believe there is still a stigma in the trades surrounding mental health, with respondents citing a ‘macho culture’, embarrassment, weakness and pressure to ‘get the job done’ as some of the contributing factors.

The survey also revealed some generational differences, with tradespeople aged 18 to 30 being 20% more likely to talk about their mental health at work than their peers in the 50 plus age group.

Despite the pressures of the day job, over half (56%) still feel that they have a good work/life balance, which is significantly higher than the national average of 33%** for all working people. The most commonly reported ways to relax when off the job include watching TV, walking the dog, and spending time with friends and family.

Commenting on the survey findings, Marco Verdonkschot, Managing Director of IronmongeryDirect, said: “This survey has revealed an interesting insight into the physical and mental wellbeing of people working in the trades. Although great progress has been made across the sector when it comes to talking about workplace mental illness, it is clear that there is still a way to go and it’s vital that employers spot the signs of mental ill-health and create the right environment where staff feel they can speak up.

It is very positive, however, to see that despite working in a demanding industry, many tradespeople still have a high level of job satisfaction and feel that their employer cares about their general wellbeing.”

IronmongeryDirect has over 18,000 products available and in stock. Orders can be placed as late as 8pm for next day delivery from Sunday through to Friday and by 4pm on Saturdays. Free, no quibble returns are available on all products.

For more information, visit IronmongeryDirect.com or call their team of specialist advisors on 0800 168 28 28.

IronmongeryDirect survey sheds new light on wellbeing of tradespeople

IronmongeryDirect survey sheds new light on the wellbeing of tradespeople

Source: Electrical Times

PLUMBEX 2020 dates announced!

Come meet the faces behind the emails – PLUMBEX offers exhibitors a social and Electrical Plumbing Expo (or BEP EX for short) held this year at the amazing Eikon Exhibition Centre, home of the the products and services they were promoting. Commenting on Facebook during the show, Charles O’Neill from professional space to meet your customers and other industry leaders to develop those vital relationships that enable your business successes.

PLUMBEX Belfast and Dublin create the perfect environment to remain in touch with the latest developments and products in the industry and to join the community of professionals who all share the same passion for their trade. PLUMBEX attracts a varied mix of visitors including plumbing and heating contractors, installers, heating engineers, M&E consultants, M&E contractors, specifiers, project engineers, merchants, distributors and builders. It also attracts representatives and decision-makers from councils, government departments, public sector bodies and anyone else associated with this sector. After working so hard for the year to perfect your brand, new products and campaigns, come show them off in style at the two PLUMBEX shows!

PLUMBEX BELFAST
The 2020 event promises to be bigger and better than ever. Hundreds of top brands, new products, smart technology, apprentice interaction plus much more is all on the cards for 2020. The event is an integral part of the Build Balmoral show, on 9/10 September, 2020. Offering three major trade events under one roof, BEP EX 2020 is the must-attend event for anyone involved in the construction, electrical, plumbing and mechanical sectors in Northern Ireland.

PLUMBEX DUBLIN
As the largest trade show in Ireland, it attracts major suppliers and contractors from all sectors of the Irish plumbing industry who are massive supporters of this successful event. Last year, PLUMBEX enjoyed support from some world-class exhibitors who have this event firmly marked in their diaries each year. Exhibitors reported busy stands with lots of interest in Heating Engineer Supplies said: “Day one done at PLUMBEX 2019 and it was very successful. The stand was very busy all day with lots of interest in our new lines.” Plans are in place to build on the success of 2019 as we return to the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Dublin, on May 20/ 21 2020. The two trade shows will showcase a range of products from both residential and commercial sectors, including; pipes, pumps and valves; bathrooms and showers; heating controls; energy efficient products and renewables; underfloor heating and much more. The events will also include seminars focusing on important industry legislation to offer visitors the latest in industry solutions and regulations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO BOOK YOUR STAND AT PLUMBEX DUBLIN AND/OR PLUMBEX BELFAST contact Jacqui Fairley on (NI) 028 9261 2990 or (RoI) 01 696 8319, e-mail jacqui@kmpltd.co.uk or visit www.plumbingmag.com/events/plumbex

PLUMBEX 2020 dates announced!

Source: Plumbing Magazine

2019 ‘a turning point’ for the lighting industry

A strong rebooking rate of over 50% at the LuxLive 2019 exhibition has defied the general economic narrative and demonstrated a confidence in the widely-anticipated recovery of the lighting market, organisers of the show said today.

LuxLive and lightspace featured a newly launched VIP meeting programme which was widely received with commendation by the targeted buyers who took part.

“The coming years will see the biggest investment in public-sector lighting in a generation”, says Lux Portfolio Director, James Samuel. “And LuxLive will be a key part of that transformation.

“With economic uncertainty, the continuing squeeze on public sector budgets and pressure on margins, 2019 has been a challenging year for the lighting industry in the UK. That mood has pervaded for an extended period, and no event in the sector has been immune from an understandable sense of caution.

“However, despite that wariness, exhibitors who put their best foot forward had an exceptional show, with firm orders taken and great relationships established. Our exceptional rebooking rate shows that brands which market themselves positively have made significant gains and will do again in the future.”

Major sponsor Bluetooth described LuxLive as ‘a valuable platform’ to promote its advanced wireless mesh technology to the industry.

“LuxLive’s focus on relevant and actionable content sessions and presentations from industry leaders is a big reason why it’s a standout lighting event in the UK and indeed across Europe,” the tech giant said.

“LuxLive provides us a great opportunity to connect with influencers in lighting and continue to promote the value proposition of Bluetooth smart lighting and its associated benefits.”

Daniel Carel of Ubisys said the show was “quite a home run” for the firm.

The newly launched VIP meeting programme was widely received with commendation by the targeted buyers who took part. The programme was tested in a small scale this year to see how the industry would react to this type of initiative.

Buyers from across industry took part in a series of targeted meetings that allowed them to increase their return on time at the event, as well as the exhibitors’ return on investment.

“Perfect meeting matches,” said the estate electrical officer from Kettering NHS Trust. “I already have a follow-up meeting booked with one of the exhibitors.”

A building surveyor from Savills said the programme was ‘very useful’, while Steve Davies, CEO of the Lighting Industry Association, said LuxLive was the organisation’s ‘cornerstone promotional event’.

He notes, “This year, it gave us another amazing opportunity to meet new and existing members, deliver educational content to specifiers, designers and buyers as well as update the wholesaler community through the EDA Regional Forum.

“It has been a tough year for the lighting industry as a whole with economic uncertainty, coupled with increased international competition. However, if we are to take the opportunities the sector has on the horizon then we all must continue to educate the supply chain about compliance and the dangers and commercial risk of specifying poor products.

“The LED revolution is all but over, but the so called ‘Internet of Things’ or enhanced lighting controls will keep driving our industry beyond the current political turmoil. So it is events such as LuxLive that keep our message alive and gives lighting a platform to broadcast its positive message.”

James Samuel adds that 2019 will be seen by the lighting industry as a major turning point: “I strongly believe that 2019 will be seen as a turning point. There are real grounds for renewed optimism and confidence for the coming year.

“Political uncertainty will be partially ended with the general election, and whoever wins will end austerity with unprecedented investment in eduction, healthcare, social housing and infrastructural projects. This can only be good news for the industry.”

His plans for the 2020 event include a range of initiatives, such as the extension of VIP Buyer Programme and a special public-sector advisory board.

He comments, “This board will comprise specifiers and budget-keepers and they will help us precisely address the educational needs in the public sector. It will target end users with responsibility for lighting in schools, universities, FE colleges, hospitals, healthcare centres, social housing, care homes and sheltered housing.

“The private sector, too, has many bright spots, including warehouse, office and leisure, and we’ll be tailoring our programme to these areas too. Specifically, we’ll explore the opportunities for upgrading from traditional lighting technology to LED, the implementation of smart controls and the transformation of emergency lighting installations to current best practice.”

He concludes, ‘We will build on our key strength in cutting-edge lighting technologies such as IoT and smart lighting controls to deliver a future-facing event. The icing on the cake will be the expected arrival of the Elizabeth Line railway (formerly Crossrail) in the coming 24 months, which will make ExCeL one of the best connected venues in the UK.”

2019 ‘a turning point’ for the lighting industry

Oxford Science Park expansion approved

Architect Perkins and Will has got the green light for two new buildings in The Oxford Science Park on the southern edge of the city.

The new buildings on plot 16 will provide 168,000 sq ft of flexible office and laboratory space to the 500,000 sq ft expansion planned for Littlemore site by 2025.

Beyond Plot 16, Magdalen College plans to further expand The Oxford Science Park with an additional 325,000 sq ft of office and laboratory space on the remaining 10 acres of land, over the next 3-5 years.

Plot 16 is a linear site at the north-east corner of the park between railway tracks and Littlemore Brook.

The complex has been designed to facilitate access to the planned new railway station due to be built as part of the reopening of the Cowley branch line in 2022.

The client team includes Core Five as the cost consultants with Hoare Lea providing M&E design and Campbell Reith the structural design.

Piers Scrimshaw-Wright, Chief Executive at Oxford Science Park, said: “Oxford is at the forefront of the UK’s fast-growing STEM sector and The Oxford Science Park is witnessing unprecedented growth.

“Perkins and Will has taken a challenging site and turned it into an exciting prospect for a thriving gateway into The Oxford Science Park.”

Science park managers hope to start construction in the autumn of next year. Building work is set to be completed in early 2022.

Oxford Science Park expansion approved

Go-ahead for £500m Thames riverside fire station scheme

Developer U+I has been granted planning permission for a £500m mixed use scheme at 8 Albert Embankment on the Thames riverside.

The green light from Lambeth Planning Committee means work is now scheduled to start on site in 2021.

The scheme is a joint venture with the London Fire Commissioner and will deliver 145,000 sq ft of office, hotel and retail space alongside 443 new homes and a new fire station and museum.

Richard Upton, Chief Development Officer at U+I, said: “This publicly owned asset is one of too many that have sat redundant for too long.

“Our unique partnership with London Fire Brigade will breathe life and productivity to this heritage site on the River Thames.

“With more than 1,000 new jobs, a reprovisioned fire station, a fire museum and 40% affordable housing our proposals will deliver huge social and economic growth for London.

“We have designed a world class regeneration project at 8 Albert Embankment and now we can deliver it.”

Go-ahead for £500m Thames riverside fire station scheme

Mace takes jump factory system to next level

Mace is rolling out its next-generation construction method to transform the building of high rise flats.

The new building system developed with an Australian firm will be used on its twin-tower East Village residential project in Stratford.

The system, which is an evolution of the thinking behind Mace’s award-winning ‘Jump Factory’ used at the Olympic Park, combines the latest advances in digital technology with a new offsite manufacturing approach to construct buildings faster, safer and to a consistently higher quality.

The launch of the new High Rise Solutions system comes as Mace officially unveiled its new business unit, Mace Tec, to manage the deployment and delivery of advanced offsite sub-assembly construction methods.

Shaun Tate, business unit director of Mace Tech, said: “HRS is more than just a new offsite construction method – it is a new digital approach to how we assemble and construct buildings.

“We interrogated the entire production to delivery cycle, taking inspiration from the auto industry with its integrated production and assembly line, looking at how we can develop smarter and more efficient offsite assembly methods to drive better outcomes.”

Mace hopes its assembly system will reduce design and construction programmes by 25%, vehicle movements by 40% and waste by 70%.

Using parametric modelling tools and artificial intelligence, HRS draws from a catalogue of components to design and manufacture the structure and façade sub-assemblies offsite.

Mace aims to convert site activities to an assembly process by installing modules concurrently with bathroom pods, utility cupboards and MEP service modules, to slash programme times and improve productivity up to six times.

The HRS system is now being used to construct N06, a 524-home build to rent scheme in East Village, which involves two towers of 26 and 31 stories.

Mace hopes to shorten the construction programme by 18 weeks with 20% less workers onsite compared to a traditional building approach.

Mace takes jump factory system to next level

November Newsletter 2019

November 20, 2019/9,733 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

November 2019 Newsletter

‘Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations, Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze, Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild, Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site’.

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Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations

Fluke and Beha-Amprobe have introduced a kit offering comprehensive testing of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Saving money versus buying the units separately, the installation tester/adapter kit provides access to the socket-outlets of vehicle charging stations to perform safety and functional tests, while simulating the presence of an electrical vehicle as required to be able to measure outputs. More information can be found at authorised Fluke distributors.

The market for EV charging stations is growing rapidly. By introducing installation tester/adapter kits, Fluke offers a solution for testing EV charging stations. They are ideal for electricians, electrical utilities and EV maintenance companies for safety testing, functional testing and troubleshooting/repair of charging stations.

The new 1664 UK-EV kit includes a Fluke 1664 FC multifunction installation tester and a Beha-Amprobe EV-520-UK EV charging station test adapter. The EV-520-UK is designed to give access to the socket-outlets of vehicle charging stations to perform safety and functional tests while simulating the presence of an electrical vehicle. The unit is designed to test function and safety of charging stations mode 3 for AC charging in combination with a Fluke 1664 FC.

Main features and functions of the test adapter:

Suitable for vehicle charging stations with charging mode 3
EV-connectors for type 2 and type 1
PE Pre-Test – to test the PE conductor for possible presence of dangerous voltage against earth
Proximity Pilot (PP) state ‘Cable Simulation’ – enables simulation of various current capabilities of the charging cables
Control Pilot (CP) state ‘Vehicle Simulation’ – enables various charging states to be simulated
Separate phase indication – to check voltage is present
Installation tester safety and functional tests using L1, L2, L3, N and PE measuring terminals enable connection of the installation tester
Electric power meter check – a mains socket allows an external load to be connected to check the power meter works and counts correctly
Simulations of CP and PE errors
Terminals for CP signal output to check communication between adapter and charging stations

The kit also includes an EVC-20 test cable with connector for the more common charging stations type 2 (while a Type 1-EVC-13 is also available separately). This easy-to-use connector combines both ‘socket outlet’ as well as ‘fixed cable with vehicle connector’ options in one. The test adapter is also available as a standalone unit.

Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations

Plumbers gained 3.6% rise in earnings for October, just behind electricians

Earnings for self-employed plumbers rose by 3.6% last month, according to the latest figures released by Hudson Contract.

Analysis of October payroll data for more than 2,200 construction companies in England and Wales reveals a weekly average of £1,119 for plumbing contractors.

They generated the third-highest earnings of all 17 construction trades covered by Hudson Contract, beaten only by specialists in shop fitting and electrical work.

Plumbers in Yorkshire and the Humber saw the strongest growth in weekly earnings in October, rising 24.2% to £802. They were followed by the West Midlands, up 12.4% to £1,110, and London, up 11% to £1,099.

Ian Anfield, Managing Director of Hudson Contract, said: “Plumbers are in strong demand, which is driving up the earning power of highly skilled freelancers. Our analysis shows they are able to command a substantial premium for their valuable services.”

Hudson Contract provides an indication of sub-contractor pay trends across the construction industry, using payroll data to publish the average pay for a spectrum of 17 different trades split across 10 regions in England and Wales.

Plumbers gained 3.6% rise in earnings for October, just behind electricians

Source: HVP Magazine

Scottish electricians raise over £5,000 for electrical industry charity

More than £5,000 has been raised by Scottish electricians SELECT, the trade body for electrical professionals in Scotland, for the UK’s leading charity devoted to those working within the industry – Electrical Industries Charity. A charity which provides practical support services and financial relief to the 1.3 million people who work throughout the UK in the sectors relating to energy and electrical.

Over the last year, the Electrical Industries Charity gave out more than £400,500 in direct financial assistance, as well as providing more than 7,400 people with non-financial support.

The majority of the money that is raised for SELECT came through the annual SELECT Awards which were held earlier this month (October) in Glasgow. Over 350 people got together at the Raddison Blu hotel in order to help pay tribute to the leading talent within the Scottish sector. The awards this year, were hosted by the radio and tv personality Shereen Nanjiani and was though to be the biggest ceremony to date, raising more than £3,000 in their charity raffle and saw three lucky winners walking away with some wonderful prizes.

SELECT President Kevin Griffin states that, “The support from Scotland for the EIC’s great work has been amazing, and reflects the valued place this charity holds within our sector.”

At the beginning of June, SELECT held a Predidents walk which took place at Chatelherault Park in Hamilton and saw more than 50 walker taking on the 5-mile Green Bridge Trail. This event was dedicated to Jim McArthur, a past SELECT president and the former chairmen of the Lanarkshire Branch, who sadly passed away last year.

A Teddy Bear’s picnic was held later in June, and brought together the organisation’s staff members and their families for a fun filled day, including face painting, games and entertainment. At this event the charity managed to raise a further £500 for the EIC.

“Set up at a time when charities were in their infancy and safety nets such as unemployment benefits, state pensions and a national health service had yet to be thought of, the EIC has been providing assistance for more than 100 years to industry colleagues who have fallen upon hard times. The wide variety of services on offer from the EIC have been a major component in creating and maintaining the thriving industry which we work in today.” explained Kevin Griffin.

As well as financial assistance, the Electrical Industries Charity also provides counselling over the phone, advice for those in debt along with support for carers, scholarships and bursary schemes, as well as legal and career transition advice. All of which are free and confidential and open to those who currently work or have previously worked in the electrical industry.

Tess Ogle, managing director and CEO of the EIC, said: “We are extremely grateful to SELECT for their continued support. Thanks to their many ongoing events, and the generosity of their staff and members, we are able to continue our vital work, helping electrical workers and their families throughout the industry.”

For more information please visit https://www.select.org.uk

Scottish electricians raise over £5,000 for electrical industry charity

Source: Electrical Trade Magazine

Nominations open for Gas Industry Awards 2020

Nominations for the Gas Industry Awards have now opened.

The Gas Industry Awards, organised by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) and the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), recognises the contribution of the gas industry’s most innovative, dedicated and outstanding members.

This year’s awards feature 10 categories, including a Customer Service Award and Engineer of the Year prize.

The closing date for nominations has been set for 2 March. Enter by visiting https://gasindustryawards.awardsplatform.com/

Nominations open for Gas Industry Awards 2020

Source: HPM Magazine

Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild

A west London council has signed up Rydon to deliver a £100m estate rebuild to create over 460 homes.

Ealing Borough Council has announced that it has formally appointed Rydon as its development partner to rebuild the High Lane estate in Hanwell after run-up talks of over two years.

The 264-home estate was constructed in the 1970s using a Bison large panel system.

Under the deal, Rydon will secure scheme financing, produce development proposals, submit planning and then demolish and build the new homes over three phases.

A full planning application is due to be submitted in March 2020. Of the planned new homes around 242 will be private sale, with 137 for social rent and 71 London affordable rent. The will also be 10 shared equity homes for existing leaseholders.

The project will take around eight years to complete.

Rydon has previously partnered with the council and A2Dominion on the £155m redevelopment of Green Man Lane social housing estate.

Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild

Weston and Tesco submit plan to turn store site into 1,280 homes

Weston Homes and Tesco have submitted ambitious plans to redevelop a supermarket and car park in east London with a major mixed-use development.

The redevelopment of the 10.4 acre Tesco store site in Goodmayes near Romford will consist of 1,280 new homes, a new Tesco store, village hall, 3-form primary school, commercial space and 7.9 acres of landscaped grounds.

The new Tesco will be equivalent in size to the current store and will be built in the current car park whilst the existing store remains open with a temporary car parking arrangement.

Once the new store is complete and open, the old store will be closed and demolished.

Weston Homes has slightly scaled-down its original plan to build 1,400 homes, lowered heights of several buildings and revised the design of the main landmark tower to make it more slender, thereby reducing the visual impact.

The new development proposals submitted to Redbridge Borough Council will also allow for highway improvement works in the High Road including a new bus lane, widening the highway, enhanced pedestrian and cycle access, and a new pedestrian crossing to Barley Lane Recreation Ground.

Weston and Tesco submit plan to turn store site into 1,280 homes

Caddick to build £50m Wakefield industrial park

Yorkshire-based Caddick Construction will build a £50m distribution centre near Wakefield, Yorkshire for global real estate investment manager AEW.

AEW will buy the site from Caddick Group and fund the development for its recently launched €290m develop-to-core UK logistics venture with Allianz.

Caddick Construction will start the speculative 512,000 sq. ft. facility – now named Wakefield 515 – in the first quarter of 2020.

Wakefield 515, previously known as Crosspoint 33 phase two, will sit next to the already completed Cross Point 33 phase one, a £100m 1.2m sq. ft. distribution centre for TK Maxx.

Caddick Construction built Crosspoint 33 phase one and is currently working on a host of other industrial and logistics schemes, such as the £10.7m Novus Business Park in Knutsford, for Chancerygate.

Located at Junction 33 on the M62 motorway, work will start on Wakefield 515 early next year.

The building is due to be delivered by the last quarter of next year.

Caddick to build £50m Wakefield industrial park

Industrial digital multimeter for extreme conditions

The Fluke 87V Max true-rms Digital Multimeter (DMM) defines a new standard for operating in extreme conditions, with the features and accuracy to troubleshoot most electrical problems.

A development of the Fluke 87V, the 87V Max is ideal for use in harsh environments with an IP 67 (waterproof and dustproof) rating, an extended operating temperature range of -15°C to +55°C (-40°C for up to 20 minutes) and up to 95% humidity, and has been designed and tested to withstand a 4 metre drop in its removable holster. It offers Cat III 1000V, Cat IV 600V safety ratings.

The Fluke 87V Max will measure up to 1000V AC/DC and up to 10A AC/DC (20A for 30 seconds), with true-rms AC voltage and current readings for accurate measurements on non-linear signals. It also offers a capacitance range of 10,000μF, measures frequency to 200kHz, and can capture min/max/average recordings, plus 150μs peak min-max to capture variations automatically. It also features a built-in thermometer, which conveniently allows temperature readings without having to carry a separate instrument. This offers an easy check whether overheating is involved in a system breakdown.

The 87V Max true-rms digital multimeter provides the resolution and accuracy to efficiently troubleshoot motor drives, plant automation, power distribution, and electromechanical equipment even in loud, high energy, and high altitude locations. It takes the guesswork out of drive system troubleshooting. It includes a unique function for accurately measuring noisy signals at the variable frequency drive and at the motor terminals: special shielding blocks high frequency, high-energy noise generated by large drive systems. It correctly measures pulse-width modulated motor drive signals.

Other product highlights:

Resistance, continuity and diode test
Relative mode to remove test lead resistance from low ohms measurements
Large display digits, two-level bright white backlight and backlit keypad buttons for increased visibility
High resolution 20,000 count display mode
Battery life doubled (up to 800 hours)
Reversible holster for added protection when not in use

The Fluke 87V Max comes with a Fluke 80BK-A DMM temperature probe and is also available as part of a money-saving kit – the 87V Max/E2 combo kit – which includes a ToolPak magnetic meter hanging kit, TL224 SureGrip insulated test leads, AC220 SureGrip alligator clips, TL238 SureGrip test probes and a soft carry case.

For more information about all Fluke products, visit www.fluke.co.uk.

Industrial digital multimeter for extreme conditions

Elta Fans launches ventilation compliance campaign

Ventilation manufacturer Elta Fans has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of ErP compliance responsibilities relating to certain ventilation products.

The manufacturer is asking contractors and distributors who sell or install roof-mounted ventilation solutions to answer a short series of online questions, with the aim of revealing the differing levels of awareness around compliance across the UK.

The issue has originated from Elta Fans’ own customer insights which highlights that many professionals are unknowingly operating as ‘manufacturers’, and are therefore making themselves responsible for ensuring ErP compliance.

While compliance is mandatory, the company is also advocating that in being compliant, a building is also delivering a higher quality of air – a topic which could not be more pertinent given recent governmental initiatives.

David Millward, Product Manager at Elta Group, said: “Legislation affects us all and we know it can be hard to keep up with all of the technicalities, but we find that not everyone is aware of their responsibilities. We hope this survey will offer some clarity for those who are unsure or, more importantly, those completely unaware.”

To answer the survey, visit: www.eltafans.com/erp-warning/.

Elta Fans launches ventilation compliance campaign

Source: HVP Magazine

How to stay healthy on the go as an electrician

Many people struggle to find enough time to stay healthy while juggling the demands of modern life. It is particularly difficult for someone who is often on the road, going from appointment to appointment.

With 66% of men and 57% of women being classed as overweight or obese and 74% of people having felt ‘overwhelmed or unable to cope’ at some point during the year, it is increasingly important that we look after both our physical and mental health.

Here, electrical wholesaler TradeSparky offers its top tips for managing your diet and stress levels on the go.

Lunch to go

One of the best ways to make improvements to your diet is to stop grabbing processed foods on the go, and preparing lunches and snacks at home from scratch instead. The two main barriers to achieving this are:

the time it takes to prep food on a daily basis
finding nice, healthy meals that don’t require a hob or microwave

Try preparing meals in bulk – things that will last a couple of days or can be frozen. It can be difficult to think of lunches that don’t require heating (sandwich, salad…yawn!) but with a little bit of research online, you can gather enough recipes for lunches that you will happily eat on a weekly basis.

One other factor to consider is portion control. This is probably the main reason why most diets fail. Even if ‘good’ foods are being consumed, if too much is being eaten, you will still put on weight.

By making your own meals, it is possible to measure exactly how much food is going in and how much each meal is contributing to your daily intake. Free smartphone apps such as ‘My Fitness Pal’ can really help with this. On the odd day when lunch is grabbed on the fly, the barcode can be scanned and all the relevant nutritional information will be added.

At a stretch

Exercise is good for both our physical and mental health and the secret to incorporating it into a busy schedule is (drum roll)… getting it out of the way early. Yes, it is horrendous dragging yourself out of bed that bit earlier, but once it’s done, the endorphins are flowing and you are ready for the day ahead.

It doesn’t even have to take a long time, either. There are plenty of 20-minute high-intensity training (HIT) routines online that can be done at home while Piers Morgan rants away on the telly. There are even free phone apps such as ‘Seconds’ that will help time your intervals.

If you really aren’t a morning person and the only thing you want to do after a long days’ work is flop on the coach, then try and incorporate something into your daily routine. If you have an appointment where little equipment is required, allow enough time to park the van 10 minutes away from the location and walk. It may not seem like very much, but it all adds up over time.

And sleep

Having enough ‘quality’ sleep will help improve performance and decrease stress levels while on the job. Of course both diet and exercise contribute to the quality of your sleep, but allowing the time for enough ZZZs is also important.

The average adult needs between seven and nine hours of sleep a night to function properly. The benefits of doing so include improvement in mood, maintaining a healthy weight and a sharpening of concentration.

However, allocating enough time during the night for bed isn’t enough, especially if you are going to spend most of the time tossing and turning. Best practices to maximise the chances of a good night’s sleep include going to bed and waking up at a set time, establishing a relaxing routine leading up to bed and ideally avoiding eating after 7pm. The latter will help with both weight loss and your ability to sleep.

Keep lubricated

And we’re not talking about alcohol! The average adult should drink about two litres of water a day. Keeping hydrated will not only help you stay alert during appointments, but it will also help with weight loss as water can boost metabolism by up to 30% and stop food cravings.

But drinking the required amount is harder than you might think. To help, water intake can be tracked in the My Fitness Pal app, but there are also apps specifically designed to monitor water consumption, such as Daily Water, and will alert you when you need to take a drink. Just keep a water bottle with you throughout the day. No customer will resent you topping up at their home or office.

How to stay healthy on the go as an electrician

Source: Sparks Magazine

Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze
With the clocks changing and the winter weather settling in, many people are starting to plan for the colder months and keeping themselves, and their homes, warm. Karen Sloan, Liberty’s Managing Director – Gas Maintenance, reveals why for the property services sector, it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze.

Winter is the busiest time of the year for the property services industry.

But as the cold weather sets in, it is a good opportunity to reflect on the months of planning and preparation our teams put in place to make sure we are ready to provide people focused services that are smart and straightforward.

During the summer months, when many of us were enjoying the sunshine Liberty was well underway with its winter planning programme – training staff, mapping workflows with clients and carrying out work that will prevent problems before they happen.

We’ve learned though years of experience that taking time to prepare when the weather is warm is the smartest way to ensure clients and customers receive the best possible service during the busy winter freeze.

Managing our time

Typically, demand for all property services is lower during the summer. Liberty receive an average of 40% reduction in repairs per day during summer compared to the winter period. During April 2019 – September 2019, this equated to 45,000 fewer repairs, freeing up capacity in teams across the business.

This gives us the time to plan ahead, agreeing processes for prioritising work during winter and ensuring that clients have everything they need to support their tenants at a time when many vulnerable people need their help the most.

We also use the summer months to assess properties with a history of weather-related issues and carry out proactive work to reduce the risk of issues during the peak winter season. This can include re-routing or insulating condensate pipes to protect them form freezing, to completing more annual gas services to make sure customers’ boilers are in the best shape ready for when they’re needed most.

With this forward-thinking approach, we can help prevent unnecessary problems so that customers stay warm and our engineers can priorities workload and focus more time on breakdowns and emergency calls.

Training and upskilling

Summer is also crucial for training and upskilling teams to make sure we’re ready for a cold snap. We do this through the Liberate Academy, our in-house training centre, with over 110 Liberty staff completing training with them in the summer of 2019. It’s the perfect time to undertake cyclical training such as ACS assessment and e-learning, whilst the service demand is lower.

The Liberate Academy ensures our team is always thinking ahead and is at the forefront of the latest developments in our sector.

It ensures that operatives understand the latest legislation, are meeting legal requirements, and are confident in their skills and abilities. This training is continuing to drive standards up, keeping people safe not just during winter, but throughout the year.

By focussing on people, we’re delivering the best possible outcomes for customers and clients.

As well as ensuring we’re ready for winter, the academy provides training which helps to improve the skills base of gas engineers across the country, including apprenticeships for those entering the profession and essential qualifications for more experienced operatives.

Addressing the gender imbalance

We’re committed to increasing diversity in the property services industry. And we’ve also been using the warmer months to increase the work we do to promote balance in the industry.

It’s widely acknowledged that this sector faces challenges in attracting female staff and, like many other organisations in this field of work, we have a much greater number of males than females across our business. Redressing this balance is key to the sector’s sustainability and ensuring we are fit for the future.

We have been doing this in a wide range of ways, including focussing on inclusive and diverse recruitment campaigns which help us recruit from the widest possible talent pool.

Some of the initiatives we have in place include flexible working practices and a robust support system, a Learning and Development team committed to supporting the development of all staff, and developing initiatives which seek to increase the number of women in the industry at all levels.

By working in these ways and planning ahead we’re well prepared to assist clients in providing the most efficient service to their customers, keeping their homes warm no matter the weather this winter brings.

Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze

Source: Installer Online

Green light for £125m Birmingham St Paul’s quarter scheme

Joint venture partners Galliard Homes and Apsley House Capital have got the planning go-ahead to create a new neighbourhood in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

The £125m mixed-use scheme to be known as the St Paul’s Quarter will transform the four-acre AE Harris industrial site with 305 flats and 100,000 sq ft of commercial space across 20 buildings.

Designed by Glenn Howells Architects, the site bounded by Newhall Street, Graham Street and Northwood Street will include a new public square at its centre.

Two grade II listed buildings will be restored to their former glory – 109 Northwood Street, built in 1882 for military ornament makers Brent and Parker and described by Historic England as “internationally significant”, and 199 Newhall Street, a neo-Georgian factory built in the early 20^th century.

A further two derelict buildings – 123 and 128 Northwood Street – will also be salvaged and transformed into new homes.

Stephen Conway, executive chairman of Galliard Homes, said: “Galliard has a track record of restoring listed buildings across London and we are looking forward to bringing this experience to Birmingham.

“123 and 128 Northwood Street have a familiar typology to the Jewellery Quarter, with street frontages concealing rear factory wings.These two buildings reinforce the grain of the area, running north-south.

“It’s therefore right that we respect their heritage and preserve them, despite their lack of listed status.”

Work will start early next year with the development anticipated to take four years to complete.

Green light for £125m Birmingham St Paul’s quarter scheme

Derwent starts design work on next big London project

London developer Derwent has started design and pre-construction work on its next major West End scheme of nearly 300,000 st ft.

It is aiming to start work on a major mixed-use at Baker Street in 2021 after this morning reporting strong pre-letting activity on schemes under construction in its property pipeline.

Paul Williams, chief executive of Derwent London, said: “Our strong pre-letting activity continues, demonstrating the consistent demand for our product and for London office space.

“In addition we have extended our main revolving credit facility, which includes an innovative green tranche linking the financing of our developments to their environmental impact.”

He added that the delayed former Saatchi building revamp by Multiplex at 80 Charlotte Street W1 was now due to be delivered in the first half of 2020.

Construction work was progressing well at Soho Place W1 and The Featherstone Building EC1 with completion expected in 2022.

The next project at 19-35 Baker Street project will involve 206,000 sq ft offices, 52,000 sq ft residential and 35,000 sq ft retail. Designed by architect Hopkins, it will rise to 10-floors.

“We have started design, pre-construction and procurement work on our 19-35 Baker Street project which is likely to start in 2021”, he confirmed

Derwent starts design work on next big London project

Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site

A kayak is on standby at a student accommodation site in Nottingham where Stepnell is facing challenging construction conditions.

The canalside site at Boulevard Wharf is only 11 metres wide.

The contractor’s emergency procedures include a kayak to catch anyone who falls in the water.

And the tight boundaries have made careful site planning vital to build 76 apartments.

Shaun Moses, site manager for Stepnell, said: “It is certainly one of the more unusual sites we’ve worked on.

“Along with the obvious issues that come with building so close to the canal edge brings, the overall site is just 11 metres wide, meaning that day-to-day operations must be very carefully managed.

“With incredibly tight boundaries and the buildings themselves designed to fill the entirety of its footprint, the site is a real challenge, but the team has worked closely with the developers from an early stage to create a solution that is workable and allows the whole operation to run smoothly.”

Tom Sewell, East Midlands’ regional director at Stepnell, said: “The story of this site is really one of collaboration.

“Our team worked extensively with the client through the design development process in order to design and manage a project that met a high standard in terms of appearance and finishes – all while working to the budget and the challenges the site provides.”

The project sees the studios spread across three buildings designed by MAS Architecture.

Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site

October Newsletter 2019

October 17, 2019/9,725 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

October 2019 Newsletter

‘Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler, £250m funding for museums and culture projects, UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time, Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework’.

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Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler

Viessmann is introducing what it claims is the UK’s lowest output system boiler as part of its new Vitodens 200 domestic boiler range.

The new 11kW Vitodens 200-W responds to demand from installers for system boilers that closely match the heat demand of the majority of modest-sized, well-insulated homes.

“Not many homes have a heat load of more than 10kW, yet most system boiler ranges start at an output of around 19kW. This means that the majority of system boilers in the UK are oversized,” explains Viessmann Marketing Director, Darren McMahon.

“Homeowners are buying larger boilers than they need and once installed, the boiler cycles more than it needs to, increasing running costs and wear and tear. A correctly-sized boiler will be more efficient and last longer.

“The Vitodens 200-W 11kW model means installers no longer have to ‘range rate’ larger boilers. System boilers can now be fitted where heat-only models may have been chosen previously. The boiler has a higher heat output rating of 17kW for the generation of hot water, so there is no trade-off between space and DHW heat.”

The Viessmann Vitodens 200 gas-condensing boilers are arriving in UK merchants this month. They are available as a wall-hung boiler (Vitodens 200-W) and floor-standing storage boiler (Vitodens 222-F), with outputs from 11kW to 60kW.

Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler

Source: HVP Magazine

UK Construction week survey reveals half of construction industry suffering with mental health issues

The largest event in the history of the UK construction industry to address mental health issues in the sector opens today (Tuesday 8 October), as part of UK Construction Week.

The focus on mental health and wellbeing at this year’s show is in response to the latest research results which paint a picture of an industry that desperately wants more mental health support.

The most recent survey conducted last month on behalf of UK Construction Week revealed that over half of people in the construction industry have suffered mental health problems at one point in their lives.

Six out of 10 people (58%) working in construction have suffered from mental health problems due to their work, most often stemming from financial issues (45%), long hours (41%) and the physical strain of the job (41%). Despite this, only four out of 10 (44%) have actually spoken out about it at work – and this figure rises to 71% for those aged over 55.

Over a third of respondents (37%) admitted that they had taken time off work due to their mental health, with only 64% of those telling their employer the reason why. The problem is particularly acute among the 18-34 age group.

When asked who they would turn to if they were to experience any mental health issues, most construction professionals felt they would be most comfortable talking to a dedicated mental healthcare professional (30%), followed by someone who they get on well with at work (27%). A chat with a friend is considered the most effective mood-booster for a bad day at work, according to respondents (50%), followed by music (46%), exercise (38%) and food (32%).

However, most importantly, over half of all respondents (56%) felt there was more their organisations could be doing to support the mental health of workers. Of the support services that they thought would be most beneficial, top of the list was free counselling (39%) or flexible working (39%), followed by a dedicated trained person to speak to (35%), an on-site quiet space (27%), and an anonymous helpline (24%).

Interestingly, there were differences between men and women in the industry about what was needed most. Women are more likely to prefer allocated wellbeing days (30% vs 17%), an on-site quiet space (34% vs 24%), and flexible working (52% vs 35%) when it comes to tackling their mental health at work. Men are more likely to prefer anonymous helplines (26% vs 21%).

Some of these support services are provided by the mental health charities working in the construction industry, including Mates in Mind and the Lighthouse Club’s Construction Industry Helpline.

Nathan Garnett, event director at UK Construction Week, said: “Awareness about the importance of mental health has grown throughout the construction industry in recent years. However, the industry still has a way to go in normalising open discussion about this aspect of health and wellbeing. That’s why we put together the Wellbeing Zone at this year’s UK Construction Week. We’re using the country’s largest construction event to host the industry’s biggest discussion and support initiative on mental health, swapping hard hats for hard chats. Through signposting to counselling, free employer advice and the simple sharing of stories, right through to yoga and meditation sessions, exercise and sporting challenges, this year’s UK Construction Week is designed to help as many people as possible, culminating on Thursday 10 October to celebrate World Mental Health Day.”

Wellbeing features at UK Construction Week include:

An installation of relaxing swings made by master craftsman Carwyn Jones, in a Wellbeing Zone full of advice and information on mental health support run in association with the NHS’s new Every Mind Matters initiative.

The launch of the Mind Your Head campaign, which features a ‘Material Support’ gallery, a collection of artwork made from construction components. There will be mental health experts who work in construction and practical advice available from an onsite therapist.

A multi-sports tournament and cup involving football, netball and touch rugby, organised with STEAM, a mental health charity which promotes wellbeing in construction through sport and exercise.

Free yoga and meditation sessions every morning of the show.

Free advice workshops for employers in the Working Well Together Theatre , including sessions on how to manage the issue of alcohol and drugs effectively in the workplace and mental health in the workplace – an industry perspective.

UK Construction Week (UKCW) finishes on 10 October, which is World Mental Health Day, so the theme runs strongly throughout the three days.

UKCW is one event with many sections, including Build sponsored by Easy-Trim, Building Tech, Civils, Energy and HVAC, Surface and Materials, and Timber. It also features Concrete Expo (8-9 October only) and Grand Designs Live (9-10 October only). Single registration gives free access to all areas of the show.

UK Construction week survey reveals half of construction industry suffering with mental health issues

Flamco unveils greener generation of products

Flamco unveiled its Flexcon Premium range of expansion vessels during a launch event at London’s Shard building this week.

The new range, in a variety of sizes, benefits from a new plastic membrane offering raw materials and energy savings, with a 15-year guarantee.

Flamco has developed the membrane for expansion vessels of 2 to 80 litres. It has replaced the vessels’ rubber membrane with a plastic membrane made of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) without losing flexibility and permeability properties.

TPO can also be burned or recycled more efficiently into other products of the same quality.

The new membrane is much lighter, because it requires up to 50% less material. This saves raw materials, energy and fuel for transport and results in a large reduction of CO2 emissions, a statement said, while packaging has also been reduced. “With this holistic approach, Flamco has taken a big step towards an even smaller ecological footprint,” it added.

Also during the event, Flamco technical director Rob Clemson, pictured, provided an update on the XStream series of air and dirt separators, launched at the ISH exhibition earlier this year. Sold with a 15-year guarantee, they have integrated insulation and can be rotated for either horizontal or vertical fitting.

Flamco unveils greener generation of products

Source: HPM Magazine

Bureau Veritas issues direct current warning on RCDs

With the 18^th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations including updated guidance on the use of various types of residual current devices (RCDs), Bureau Veritas is warning that a rising number of AC type RCDs are being adversely affected by direct currents (DC) from electronic devices and renewable energy sources.

It comes amid the growing use of RCDs over the years, with AC type RCDs often promoted as the first choice, particularly since 2001 where the 17^th Edition (amendment one) directly stated that AC type RCDs should be used for sockets that might supply outdoor equipment.

However, according to electrical safety expert, Bureau Veritas, as more and more homes, commercial and industrial sites are now using electronic equipment and installing renewables such as solar PV, many of these RCDs may well be not fit for purpose – putting an increasing number of people at risk.

Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, explains, “Modern electrical installations are now, more than ever, incorporating technologies and products that manipulate the current wave forms. These devices such as Solar PV and electric vehicle chargers could be leaking (direct current) back into the electrical system and saturating the iron core of the AC type RCDs which are not designed to handle it.

“This is a particular problem when dealing with poor quality electronic equipment or substandard installations, as DC leakage current can be created by faulty equipment such as solar PV, EV chargers, variable speed drives, and even faulty mobile phone chargers or USB sockets. Inevitably, we’re seeing RCDs being increasingly affected by DC – putting many people at risk.”

As an independent electrical specialist, Bureau Veritas suggests the industry, instead, looks at using A or B type RCDs that are specifically designed to offer protection against alternating and pulsating direct – as stated in the recent rewrite of 531.3 of BS7671.

Kenyon continues, “The rewrite of 531.3 has certainly led to an increased awareness of the different type of RCDs on the market. But in terms of promoting best practice, at the moment, it just doesn’t go far enough in recommending the use of A type RCDs. In fact, regulation (531.3.3) still states that for general purposes, type AC RCDs should be used coupled with disincentive that type A RCDs are still much less readily available.

“From our experience, we’d recommend A type RCDs for general use, although going forward this will need to be supported by regulation, the industry and even manufacturers, as nine out of 10 devices found online were still AC type and the A type devices remain significantly more expensive.

“Specifying the correct RCDs can be a technical and complicated area, and currently there’s a knowledge gap within the electrical industry about the risks of using AC type RCDs in modern installations. That’s why it’s important, now more than ever, to ensure every electrical installation is safe and fit for use – and the best way to do this is through regular testing and inspection.”

Bureau Veritas offers a range of testing and certification services to support customers in managing compliance around electrical safety in general for new and existing installations or for specific areas, such as electric vehicle charging points.

Bureau Veritas issues direct current warning on RCDs

£250m funding for museums and cultural projects

Cultural projects, libraries, museums and creative industries will get a £250m to deliver expansion projects over the next five years.

York’s National Railway Museum is among the biggest immediate winner. It will receive £18.6m to kickstart £50m transformation plans, including new gallery and exhibition spaces and the restoration of heritage buildings.

The museum will become the cultural hub of vast York Central redevelopment creating up to 2,500 new homes.

Judith McNicol, Director of the National Railway Museum, said: “This is wonderful news for the National Railway Museum – and for the City of York. This £18.6m investment by the Government is an extremely significant milestone in realising our £55m Vision 2025 campaign to turn our museum into a truly world-class attraction.

Coventry also gets an extra £7m to fund its 2021 UK City of Culture programme that will unlock £37m of extra funding and over £107m of tourism impacts.

Elsewhere, £125m will be invested in regional museums and libraries around the country.

More than £90m will be provided to extend the Cultural Development Fund which uses investment in heritage, culture and creativity to drive regeneration and growth.

£250m funding for museums and cultural projects

Middlesbrough plans £250m trio of skyscrapers

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston has unveiled plans to create a £250m digital city in the city’s Boho district.

The plans include building the highest office and residential towers for 30 miles as part of an initial £45m phase of the project that will transform Teesside’s skyline.

Construction of the first phase, which will include three 20 storey-towers, will start next summer and create up to 400 construction jobs.

It will see the creation of a digital campus, a 750-seat indoor amphitheatre beneath a glass atrium and a 400-seat outdoor amphitheatre to host events such as lectures, cultural events and entertainment.

Mayor Preston said: “For the next few years my obsession, my mission, my purpose on this planet is to get Middlesbrough on track as the digital city for the UK.

“This is a £45m first step of a quarter of a billion pounds scheme that will propel Middlesbrough on a journey to become the UK’s digital capital – bringing investment, jobs and prosperity to the town.

“This isn’t another pipe dream that might happen in two, four or ten years’ time. This is happening now.

“We have the money and investors in place. Planning consent will be sought within weeks and construction will start next summer.”

The £30m office element is being joint funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority and Middlesbrough Council.

This includes £26.5m from the Combined Authority’s £588m Investment Plan which was agreed earlier this year and sets out a ten-year vision to transform the region.

The council will contribute £3.5m, with a further £15m investment in residential accommodation by a third party consortium.

Middlesbrough plans £250m trio of skyscrapers

Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework

Procurement group Fusion 21 is on the hunt for firms for its latest generation national heating and renewables framework.

With a predicted £500m work pipeline over four years, a new lot has been developed with the Department for Education to support schools, academies and colleges with their heating requirements.

The 10-lot framework will select firms offering domestic and commercial solutions as well as offering a range of services from consultancy to design, servicing, maintenance and installation.

The framework also includes a selection of renewable technology applications from air and ground source heat pumps to solar thermal, electric heating and hot water systems.

The commercial element will target district heating systems and the installation/ servicing of heat interface units.

Providing regional coverage, the framework has been structured to open doors to SMEs, enabling suppliers to bid for works suited to their experience and expertise.

Peter Francis, director of operations at Fusion21, said: “With the use of renewable technologies on the rise and a government target to deliver decarbonisation – this framework will also support members to install a range of sustainable heating solutions tailored to their requirements.”

Interest firms can find prequal informatiom on the mytenders web portal under Notice ID OCT158374.

The framework will come into force from the start of 2020.

To date Fusion21 has saved clients an estimated £225m through the procurement process, created 6,500 jobs and generated more than £80m of social impact.

Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework

At what temperatures does the heating go on?

A new study from intelligent home climate management company tado° has found that the further north you live, the more likely you are to tolerate both a colder outdoor and indoor temperature. On average, UK householders first turn on their post-summer heating when the outside temperature drops to 13.5°C, but there’s a difference between Southerners, Northerners, and Scots.

The average outdoor temperature needed to get Southern English people to first turn on their thermostat after the summer is 13.5°C. Northerners wait for it to drop to 13°C, while Scots hold out until the temperature falls to just 12.5°C. The average inside temperature at this time is 20.5°C for Southerners, 20°C for Northerners, and 19.5°C for Scots. As of the second week of October, approximately 95% of Brits had switched their heating on since the summer.

It also seems that we like our homes to be cooler than our European neighbours, with the average yearly temperature in UK homes set at 21°C compared to 22°C in Germany and the Netherlands, 22.5°C in France and Sweden, and 23°C in Spain, Italy, and Norway.

At what temperatures does the heating go on?

Source: PHAM News

UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time

Energy sector has seen hydrocarbon use halve since 2010 and green sources increase more than fourfold.

UK renewables have generated more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time, according to an analysis of energy use for the third quarter of this year.

Wind farms, solar panels, biomass and hydropower generated 29.5 terawatt hours (TWh) of energy for the months of July, August and September, compared to 29.1TWh from fossil fuels, according to Carbon Brief.

In 2010, 10 times more energy came from burning fossil fuels than renewable energy, but the cost of renewables has tumbled, with onshore wind and solar power frequently cheaper.

This marks the latest milestone in the rapid decarbonisation of the UK’s electricity system.

Dr Simon Evans, deputy editor of Carbon Brief, told The Independent: “The UK has made significant progress in cutting its CO2 emissions over the past decade.

“Almost all of that progress is thanks to the electricity sector, which as our analysis shows has seen fossil fuel generation halve since 2010 and renewables increase more than fourfold.

“Other parts of the economy have made very little progress. The UK will not be able to meet its legally-binding carbon targets in future without emissions cuts in other areas, such as heating and transport,” he said.

This is part of a growing trend and in the first three quarters of this year, renewables did better than fossil fuels on 103 out of 273 of the days.

However, despite huge success in the electricity sector, other parts of the economy have made little progress in reducing emissions.

Last year 6.8tns of greenhouse gases were emitted per person and by 2050 this will need to have dropped to zero.

The Committee on Climate Change’s (CCC) annual report to parliament showed UK action to slash greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change is lagging far behind what is needed.

BEIS was awarded £30m extra in the latest spending round to “accelerate progress” on decarbonisation projects next year.

However, this was just 0.1 per cent of what is required, according to Britain’s biggest environmental groups, including Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth.

UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time

Source: The Independent

Changes to benchmark commissioning checklist

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) – in partnership with major boiler manufacturers, installers and representatives from across the supply chain – have revisited the Benchmark scheme to update the commissioning checklist, taking it into 2020 and beyond.

Launched in 1999, the Benchmark scheme is designed to promote quality for the installation, commissioning and servicing of domestic heating and hot water systems. The scheme has been updated to reflect modern day best practice, standards and legislation.

Commenting on the changes, HHIC director Stewart Clements, says: “As a result, there are a few changes you will notice now appearing on recently printed Checklist forms in order to make it more relevant and also to offer further improvements to the overall efficiency of the Benchmark system.

“Completing the Benchmark Checklist is already a means of meeting the commissioning requirements within Part L of the Building Regulations, and embracing Benchmark is the most straightforward way to help make sure you comply, as the documentation is already supplied with the appliance.

“To help make completing the checklist even easier, HHIC are currently investigating whether or not it is possible and feasible to move the form online. This would mean that installers would be able to simply complete the checklist at the same time as registering the installation with Gas Safe, across different manufacturer brands.”

The online system is currently in the design phase and planned for launch by the end of 2020.

Copies of the new Benchmark Checklists and other scheme documents can be found with the installation instructions supplied with products, or it can be seen by visiting www.hhic.org.uk/resources.

Changes to benchmark commissioning checklist

Source: PHAM News

18th Edition – Is it fit for purpose?

Almost a year has passed since the latest update was made to the 18^th Edition regulations. However, questions remain as to whether the regulations are still fit for purpose and of value to modern electricians, particularly those working in industrial environments.

Whilst the updates included refreshed guidance around energy efficiency, approved parts, surge protection and arch fault detection, many of the changes had little relevance for electricians in the field and were aimed more at systems designers.

A large number of the updates detailed in the new regulations, for example, those relating to the installation and application of switchgear, could be considered an attempt to ensure that the new guidance accurately reflects the types of products and technology being used in industrial installations.

Ultimately, the updated 18^th Edition regulations still constitute an essential source of information and guidance in any modern-day electrician’s toolkit. However, they contain a number of grey areas which are open to interpretation. Take, for example, the use of isolators on motors. According to the updated regulations 135.15.202 “Every fixed electric motor shall be provided with an efficient means of switching off readily accessible, easily operated and so placed as to prevent danger”. If this was taken literally, the installations could have potentially hundreds of motors, each with their own point of isolation nearby. In reality, this approach is neither logical nor feasible.

The regulation does however give the designer an option in that the efficient means of switching off can actually be remote from the motor, providing a safe system of work is in place to prevent danger. A better approach would be to define isolation requirements by current levels and locality to the power source, giving systems designers and industrial electricians more leeway in terms of where crucial isolation points are located.

It must not be forgotten that the 18^th Edition regulations are a guide and are intended to be a ‘one size fits all’ approach. However, for younger, less experienced engineers, this can be cause for confusion as they are to some degree, open to interpretation. Newly-qualified electricians or those in training may find themselves faced with problems and situations on site which are not directly referred to by the guidance. In cases such as these, the individual is required to draw on common sense and experience to settle on a workable solution.

Some may argue that the lack of detail contained within the regulations limits their usefulness. However, turning them from ‘guidance’ into ‘rules’ could create further issues. A rule is inherently more prescriptive and considering the extremely diverse nature of industrial electrical applications, it would be a near impossible task to compile a single set of rules which would cover all eventualities.

One area of the 18^th Edition regulations where there is clearly room for improvement is around some of the more specific sections, which would benefit for a degree of clarification. For example, there clearer distinctions should be made between the differing requirements for domestic, industrial and commercial installations. Of course, a large amount of the information, for example around earthing requirements, would remain the same. However, having set specifications for electricians working in different environments would be helpful in the long run.

Similarly, more detail should be given in the regulations about ‘Zs’ values, which represent maximum loop fault earth impedance. Currently, only the more commonplace figures are quoted in the 18^th Edition, which rarely gives the level of information needed for industrial electricians. As the figures change, rather than waiting for a new edition of the regulations to be published, the amends could be issued as an addendum to the main document.

Lastly, there are some grey areas in the current publication around cable types. There are a number of IEC 60502-1-compliant cables, which are not necessarily coordinated with BS7671, the main UK wiring regulations. However, in the 18^th Edition there are several blanket references, suggesting that all IEC 60502-1 cables may be of similar requirement to the British Standard. These parts are stated as informative (Appendix 4.1 for example) so they are not a regulation. Despite being a rather niche point, this distinction is important nonetheless, especially for less experienced electricians and designers in training.

The 18^th Edition regulations form an important source of guidance and standardisation for electricians operating in a number of different environments. Whilst turning them from ‘guidance’ into ‘rules’ is not likely to benefit anyone, a number of refinements and clarifications would make them a more powerful and accessible tool for all of the UK’s electricians. Who knows what the 19^th Edition may bring?

18th Edition – Is it fit for purpose?

Source: Electrical Times

Start date for £1.4bn London Gotham City offices

The long-delayed 40 Leadenhall Street office scheme in the City of London has finally got a start date.

In a significant vote of confidence in the City, M&G Prudential has salvaged the stalled scheme with plans to invest £875m to buy and build on the site.

Contractor Mace has been in the frame to build the 900,000 sq ft project nicknamed Gotham City for more than 12 months.

Construction will now start early in 2020 once Keltbray completes clearing the key Leadenhall Triangle site to allow building of two stepped towers of 14 and 34 storeys.

The site was sold by Alberta Investment Management Corporation and Nuveen Real Estate, which will continue as development manager.

The new buildings’ carbon emissions will be 30% below current regulations and are expected to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Tony Brown, global head of M&G Real Estate, said: “London’s commercial property market currently offers good value relative to other capital cities such as Paris and Tokyo, partly due to Brexit-related uncertainty.”

“As there are a limited number of developments underway in London, we expect high-quality office space like this with an emphasis on green credentials and employee well-being to be in demand from occupiers when the scheme is completed in four years.”

Start date for £1.4bn London Gotham City offices

Native Land commits to £1bn London Bankside scheme

Developer Native Land has committed to the first speculative office building at its £1bn Bankside Yards mixed-use development next to Blackfriars Bridge in London.

Demolition and foundations specialist McGee has bagged the contract for the Western Yards basement and concrete core for the initial 230,000 sq ft offices project, known as the Arbor.

Tendering for main contractor is now underway with an award targeted before the end of the year. Mace, Multiplex and Balfour Beatty are among those chasing the job.

The centrepiece of Bankside Yards will be the restoration of 14 historic railway arches set in three acres of newly-created open space.

Native Land and its consortium partners Temasek, HPL and Amcorp Properties have now fully funded the Western Yards first phase, which also includes a residential block of 240 luxury flats with views across the capital.

Western Yards will also create 50,000 sq ft of independent retail, restaurant and cultural space in the restored railway arches.

More than half of the wider 5.5-acre Bankside Yards site will be walkable open space, with extensive greenspace and a sweeping stairway down to the Thames.

When complete the scheme located near the Tate Modern gallery will consist of around 600 homes.

The developer will make a financial contribution of at least £65m to Southwark Council to deliver new affordable housing across the borough.

The overall development will create an estimated 3,600 jobs in the retail, commercial and construction sectors, while providing training and apprenticeships for local job seekers.

Alasdair Nicholls, chief executive of Native Land, said: “We are opening up an important piece of London with amazing transport connections and, as locally-based developers, we are keen to contribute to the rich mix of the area by creating a place that’s accessible, enjoyable and productive.’

Native Land is developing a cultural strategy for Bankside Yards, which will integrate the development’s 20,000 sq ft of new cultural spaces with the wider South Bank and Bankside creative and arts scene.

The second phase of the development, known as Eastern Yards, will include a premier hotel and on-site affordable and private homes.

Bankside Yards is master-planned by PLP Architecture with Gillespies as the landscape architects.

Native Land commits to £1bn London Bankside scheme

Take 2 for Made in Dagenham film studios plan

Barking and Dagenham Council will go-ahead with plans to build a Hollywood-scale film studio in East London, despite its preferred development partner pulling out over Brexit uncertainty.

Pacifica Ventures, the studios where Breaking Bad was made, was preferred bidder for the Made in Dagenham studios.

But according to the council it failed to “progress matters sufficiently” and has lost its preferred bidder status.

Be First, Barking and Dagenham Council’s pioneering regeneration company, will now take on design and seek planning permission for the 20-acre former Sanofi site in Dagenham East.

The Dagenham East studios will provide up to 200 000 sq ft of film stages and workshops alongside creative workspace and food facilities.

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council said: “This is the next exciting stage in our ambition to build the largest studios in London for 25 years.

“If we get planning permission to build our Made in Dagenham studios, there are some exciting options – we could build them ourselves or we can work with any of the ambitious dynamic media companies who share our vision of making movies in what will be London’s Hollywood.”

Pat Hayes, Be First’s Managing Director, said: “Pacifica told us they were finding it difficult to deliver their plans due to uncertainty over the UK leaving the European Union.

“But what is not in doubt is the viability and demand for studio space in the UK which remains sky high, and that is why I am convinced there will be plenty of interest from parties who want to make sure movies will be Made in Dagenham.”

After last night’s council decision, Be First will submit a planning application in the New Year.

Take 2 for Made in Dagenham film studios plan

August Newsletter 2019

August 22, 2019/10,458 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

August 2019 Newsletter

‘ECO3 will cost installers and consumers dearly, Engineering services cautiously optimistic says survey, £100m Chester racecourse revamp approved, Baxi 800 range ready for September launch, Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package’.

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Enquiries for new boiler installs up over 40% in summer months, reports boiler guide

According to boiler repair directory Boiler Guide, enquiries for new gas boiler installations on the platform have risen by 44.5% over the past three months, compared to May-July 2018.

The seasonal decline that often sees heating engineers struggle for business may be a thing of the past, the company says, with homeowners now more savvy to the potential savings of getting a new boiler installed when demand for heating engineers is lower.

David Holmes, Founder of Boiler Guide, said: “It’s great to see that more UK homeowners are not waiting until winter to get their boilers replaced – we are all well aware of the high demands on repair people during the colder snaps of winter and the potential implications of a broken boiler.

“In some areas of the UK you can save up to £500 by replacing your boiler in August as opposed to November, so it’s worth speaking to a heating engineer in the summer if you’re after a bargain.”

Enquiries for new boiler installs up over 40% in summer months, reports boiler guide

Source: HVP Magazine

A WEEE lamp update

Visiting trade shows across the country, Recolight have learnt that disposing of waste electricals and lighting can be a headache for contractors. The Waste Electronic and Electrical Regulations were introduced to the UK back in 2007, but many contactors we spoke to either weren’t aware of them or didn’t know how to use them.

Recolight is a not for profit WEEE Compliance scheme, set up and funded by the lighting industry to manage a free lamp recycling service. If you collect 1000 lamps each quarter, the container and collection is free too. This is great for contractors carrying out a large re-lamp project, but not if you’ve only got a small number of lamps in your van. Recolight can still help though, as we have a UK network of 850 drop-off points. Search the map on the Recolight website to find the closest one, and then simply drop off your lamps between jobs. It’s free, but you do need to take a consignment note with you.

A consignment note is an Environment Agency requirement. They’re used to track the movement of hazardous waste. There are three copies, one to leave at the drop-off point, one for you, and one for your customer (where you pick up the waste from). The benefit to you, is that you can prove to your customer that you’re doing the right thing, and if you were to be stopped for a spot check by the Environment Agency, you are compliant.

You will find guidance on the Recolight website to help you with consignment notes, WEEE storage exemptions, and waste carrier licences.

A WEEE lamp update

Source: Electrical Trade Magazine

ECO3 will ‘cost installers and consumers dearly’

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) has warned that the proposals in the Government consultation for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO3) threaten the livelihoods of thousands of heating and plumbing businesses.

The consultation is seeking views on proposed changes to the current ECO3 scheme. This includes:

Incorporating the TrustMark Government Endorsed Quality scheme (a result of Each Home Counts) into ECO3, as a route to demonstrating compliance with the most up to date relevant PAS standards and to ensure a sufficient consumer protection process and guarantees are in place.
Technical changes to the way First Time Central Heating is treated under the scheme.

Stewart Clements, director, HHIC said: “The HHIC has consistently argued that the industry needs the existing building regulations to be better enforced and to have access to greater resources. Better policing and adherence to current standards is needed. What is not needed is another layer of expensive red and blue tape. This additional complexity will almost certainly lead to worse outcomes for more vulnerable people, who could be misled into options they do not want or need.”

“PAS2035 and Trustmark are potentially the most disruptive policy changes to hit the heating industry in decades and if we allow it to filter in unchecked, it could radically transform how heating engineers not only carry out their day job but whether they can operate at all.

“At present, ECO installers must comply with PAS 2030 which has been deemed bureaucratic, expensive and time consuming for the vast majority of heating installers. There are approximately 130,000 gas safe registered engineers in the UK and yet only 350 (0.4%) of them have registered with the scheme. Why is Government enforcing yet another scheme which is set to fail before it has even begun?

“A scheme that will financially benefit a number of accreditation companies and TrustMark, but not consumers, installers or ultimately Government who will see costs rise without any discernible change in delivery.

“Some will say that there is no cause for concern as ECO work is not compulsory and they can simply choose not to engage. We believe to adopt such a view would be naïve. This policy is sliding in below the radar. Once this standard makes its way into ECO it could (and most probably will) then make its way into Building Regulations and Gas Safe. The direction of travel is clear.”

ECO3 will ‘cost installers and consumers dearly’

Source: HPM Magazine

Industry backs leading fire and security awards

A series of leading bodies from across the fire, emergency and security systems sector are now supporting this year’s FSA Awards, which are currently open to nominations from the entire industry.

In addition to ECA and Select, which are partnering on the FSA Awards, the industry bodies now supporting the awards are as follows:

– BAFE
– Fire Protection Association (FPA)
– National Security Inspectorate (NSI)
– Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

There are two individual FSA Awards – the Peter Greenwood Security Award, and the Ian Marsh Fire Award. A panel of independent judges from the FSA partners and supporters will determine the winning duo, based on their contribution to the industry.

The judging panel for this year’s awards is as follows:

– Tom Brookes, Chair, FSA
– Una Riley, Security industry expert
– Alan Wilson, Managing Director, Select
– Richard Jenkins, CEO, NSI
– Alex Carmichael, Chief Executive, SSAIB

FSA Chair and Managing Director of Lindum Fire Services, Tom Brookes, comments, “The FSA is delighted to see these awards move from strength to strength, with the entire industry now getting behind both the Peter Greenwood Security Award and the Ian Marsh Fire Award. We encourage the industry to put forward well deserving individuals for the awards.”

Both FSA Awards are being presented at the IFSEC ‘Security and Fire Excellence Awards’ on November 20, 2019 at the Park Lane Hilton in London. The winners of both FSA Awards (plus one guest each) will receive free places on the FSA’s table on the evening.

For more details, or to nominate an individual for either award, please click here. Nominations close on September 13.

Industry backs leading fire and security awards

£100m Chester Racecourse revamp approved

Plans for a £100m major revamp of Chester Racecourse have been approved.

The upgrade project involves the construction of a six-storey grandstand and conference centre.

The first phase of work could now begin in the autumn. The scheme will involve demolition of the existing Leverhulme grandstand to create a large fan-shaped public lawn.

This space to be known as Paradise Square will be available for racegoers and the public on non-race days.

Cheshire West and Chester councillors had rejected the initial plans in March. As a result, the racecourse withdrew its plan to build a multi-storey car park and to use Saddlery Way to access the Roodee on race days.

Chester Race Company chief executive, Richard Thomas, said: “The Masterplan is very important to the future of the Race Company and represents a massive investment in Chester.

“The Conference Centre and Grandstand will be a fantastic Civic building for the City and, on race days, provide a new viewing and hospitality Grandstand like no other.”

The revamp was designed by London-based McGuirk & Watson Architecture with consultant Ramboll providing structural and M&E design services. Preston-based Frank Whittle Partnership is the cost consultant.

£100m Chester Racecourse revamp approved

B&K checks in with Manchester “Jenga” hotel

Local developer Capital & Centric has picked Bowmer & Kirkland to build a striking 275-bed hotel near Piccadilly Station in Manchester.

It is understood to have beaten Bardsley and Willmott Dixon to take the project, which boasts a quirky Jenga-like design drawn up by architect Stephenson Studio.

Demolition of existing warehousing at the site on the corner of Adair Street and Great Ancoats Street is due to kick-off shortly.

The Leonardo Hotel will rise to 13 floors and is expected to cost over £25m to build.

Durham-based J H Partners is the M&E consultant with Bury-based Booth King Partnership providing structural design.

B&K checks in with Manchester “Jenga” hotel

Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package

Castle Building Services has landed a £6m M&E package from Bowmer & Kirkland on a £32m student scheme in Preston.

CBS will start design and BIM work now before arriving on site next May at the University of Central Lancashire building designed by architect Hawkins\Brown.

The 7,304 sq m four-storey, highly glazed building will provide a new reception area, informal learning spaces and a student wellbeing support centre.

It is part of a wider £200m investment by the university to transform its Preston Campus.

Lee Mitchel, CBS operations director for the North West said: “We are highly delighted to have been appointed, by Bowmer & Kirkland, to work on such an impressive building.

“It has been designed with flexibility in mind and as such, the building services adopted within it must reflect that.

“I am confident that our early appointment to the project and longstanding working relationship with the main contractor will support the seamless delivery of the state-of-the-art building.”

Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package

Baxi 800 range ready for September launch

Baxi has unveiled its new 800 range of boilers ahead of a full release next month, on September 2nd.

The range has been designed “to meet the changing needs of consumers”, consisting of the Baxi 825 Combi, Baxi 830 Combi, Baxi 836 Combi, Baxi 818 System and the Baxi 824 System.

Each boiler has a central flue design and comes with a 10-year parts and labour warranty, and a compact Adey Magnaclean Micro2 magnet system filter to protect the heating system.

Of the accessories available to complement the range, there is a rear pipework kit, extensive range of flues and accessories for versatile siting, IFOS in-flue weather sensors for easy compliance with Boiler Plus and the uSense smart control.

David Cook, sales director at Baxi Heating, added: “The new Baxi 800 range is straightforward to install, reliable and easy to maintain. It was designed with installers in mind, with the features they told us they prefer, such as brass hydraulics. The 10-year warranty and magnetic filter mean they can offer their customers the complete package.”

Baxi 800 range ready for September launch

Source: HPM Magazine

Engineering services cautiously optimistic, says survey

The latest Building Engineering Business Survey, sponsored by Scolmore, has shown that sector growth remained steady in the second quarter of 2019 in the face of rising costs and persistent payment issues.

The survey, which included data from industry trade bodies ECA, BESA, SELECT and SNIPEF, found that more than 8 in 10 (81%) businesses’ turnover remained the same or increased in Q2 2019 (versus Q1 2019). Less than a fifth (18%) reported their turnover had decreased.Outlook for Q3 suggests that the vast majority (85%) of businesses expect more or the same turnover compared to Q2.ECA CEO Steve Bratt commented, “Businesses are continuing to show resilience in what is a challenging commercial environment, with increased costs and poor payment ongoing concerns. With the uncertainty of the ongoing Brexit impasse casting a shadow over industry, it’s vital that the new government injects some impetus by backing major infrastructure projects and ensuring prompt payment across the sector.”More than half (52%) of respondents reported an increase in labour costs, while two thirds (62%) reported an increase in material costs.Prompt payment remained a major challenge, with it taking over 30 days in 62 per cent of jobs in the public sector, in breach of regulations. This comes despite 56 per cent of businesses saying their clients promised below 30-day payment within contractual agreements.BESA CEO David Frise added, “It’s reassuring to see how resilient the industry is in spite of the current political situation, the continued scourge of late payments and the rising costs of labour and materials.“The new government must take heed that businesses are crying out for certainty. Until a clear consensus on what direction the country is heading emerges, this limbo will continue to hit investment and prevent us dealing with the other major challenges we face, such as climate change, air quality, improvements to the NHS and education and the housing crisis.”SNIPEF CEO Fiona Hodgson also commented, “While it is promising to see signs of steady growth in the industry, it is clear the sector still faces many challenges. Issues with poor payment practices and growing costs continue to affect the sector. It is important these problems are urgently addressed to provide certainty for businesses.”The survey received 497 responses from companies across the industry, mainly regarding their performance in Q2 2019 (1 April to 30 June 2019), and expectations for Q3 2019.

Engineering services cautiously optimistic, says survey

Source: Electrical Review

Kensa to step up ground source heat pump production

Manufacturer expects new manufacturing and office complex to produce 30,000 heat pump units and support wider research in appliances able to meet UK need for lower carbon appliances

Kensa Heat Pumps has announced construction of a 1000 square metre manufacturing facility at its existing base in Cornwall that will allow it to manufacture 30,000 ground source heat pumps a year.

Announcement of the new production site, which will also include office space, coincides with the 20th anniversary of the company and will support market demand amidst the UK’s drive to decarbonise heat in buildings. The privately-funded investment will also support the manufacturer’s work to research and develop new products and components in line with new forms of refrigerant and operational benefits.

A key factor of the site’s construction will be the inclusion of underfloor heating and hot water that is fed by a ground source heat pump. The technology will make use of heat in water in the flodded mine workings below.

The new facility is expected to create potentially up to 150 new jobs with the company, which expects annual growth of 50 per cent as the government prepares to introduce regulations to end the use of high carbon fossils fuels in new build homes from 2025.

Kensa has claimed that ground source heat pumps are capable of providing the lowest cost heat of all appliances currently on the market.

Company chief executive Simon Lomax said the new site, which is due to be operational from January 2020, would cement its reputation as a major employer in the region’s low carbon heating sector.

He said, “Kensa is the long-established UK market leader and we expect to grow at a rapid rate in the years ahead as the appeal of ground source heat pumps become apparent to all.”

Sarah Newton, the Conservative MP for Truro and Falmouth, also welcomed the expansion of the company in the area, noting its ability to produce heat pumps that she said would be increasingly Important to realise the government’s 2050 decarbonisation target.

Kensa to step up ground source heat pump production

Source: HVN Plus

EV Charging: ‘Quality must come first’ states Bureau Veritas

In response to the government’s recent pledge to invest more cash into the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, Bureau Veritas has again voiced its concerns over maintenance challenges; stating that ‘quality must come first’ if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles.

This week, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced it is pumping nearly £40 million into improving the infrastructure for electric vehicles, with investments in wireless charging and pop-up pavement technology. All new homes built in Britain are also set to be fitted with charging points for electric cars.

At present, the UK has more than 24,000 public charging connectors in nearly 9,000 locations. However, with EV car registrations up 62% to 2,461 in June compared with the same month last year, the number of charging points being installed is expected to rise dramatically in the coming years.

Welcoming the government’s additional funding, Bureau Veritas has responded saying that the speedy creation of charging infrastructure should focus on quality and safety.

Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, says, “This funding offers a great opportunity to a number of industries, including automotive, engineering and electrical contractors, currently involved in delivering the government’s Road to Zero strategy, which wants ‘almost every car and van’ in the UK to be zero emission by 2050.”

“However, in the race to deliver the adequate charging infrastructure required to achieve this, quality in terms of engineering, safety and compliant installations must come first. Especially, if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles – one that is not only cost-effective but will also last the test of time.”

Bureau Veritas is also encouraging installers of charging points to ensure they hold the latest accreditations and are up to speed with recent rule changes on residual current devices (RCDs) and earthing arrangements. The firm points to new guidance on the installation of EV charging points offered in Section 722 of the 18^th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. This has recently led to the code of practice for electric vehicle charging equipment installations moving on to its 3^rd Edition.

Michael Kenyon adds, “As all new installations will need to be compliant, businesses such as service stations, shopping centres and hotels will require installers of EV charging points to be accredited by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). What’s more, installers and inspectors of charging infrastructure will need to have a clear and detailed understanding of the different types and classifications of RCDs and how to test them.”

“We understand that for many, this will be a new area, often fraught with complexity. That’s why putting a robust strategy in place for the initial inspection and maintenance of these charging installations by an independent appraiser is the best way to ensure they comply with all the relevant standards.”

EV Charging: ‘Quality must come first’ states Bureau Veritas

Radisson backs £5bn Kent theme park with hotel plan

Radisson has become a stakeholder in the planned £5bn London Resort theme park in Kent.

Radisson said it will open a luxury 430-room hotel at the resort as plans for the “British Disneyland” continue to progress.

Backers of The London Resort hope to complete construction on the 535 acre site near Ebbsfleet station in 2024.

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We are delighted to be part of such an iconic and unique project that is breaking new ground and bringing together an exciting mix of global brands.

“We strive to create memorable experiences for our guests, and this is the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

PY Gerbeau, Chief Executive of London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH), said: “Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to the resort represents a significant milestone and is testimony to the absolute conviction the team has to deliver this project.

“We are thrilled they have bought into our vision to create a totally unique entertainment destination and can’t wait to work with their team.

“Radisson Hotel Group will be bringing films and characters to life in what will be an unforgettable hotel experience and will complement the incredible experiences and attractions Paramount Studios will also be bringing to the resort.”

Radisson backs £5bn Kent theme park with hotel plan

Willmott Dixon to complete Pochin Stoke site

Willmott Dixon is set to be confirmed as replacement contractor for Pochin on a £37.5m scheme in Stoke-on-Trent.

Work at the Smithfield development stalled earlier this month when Pochin went into administration.

The collapsed contractor was building an apartment block and hotel for developer Genr8 with both jobs set to be completed by the end of this year.

A Stoke-on-Trent City Council spokesman told the Stoke Sentinel: “Genr8 Developments has moved swiftly to put plans in place for the completion of its Clayworks build-to-rent apartments and the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Stoke-on-Trent’s Smithfield development since main contractor Pochin went into administration earlier this month.

“Genr8 has taken back possession of both sites and is proposing to appoint Wilmott Dixon as construction manager to complete both projects.

“Willmott Dixon is currently working closely with Genr8 to finalise programmes that will minimise any impact on project completion dates.

“Genr8 has also already appointed key members of the original site delivery team to work as part of the Genr8 construction management team on both projects, securing jobs and ensuring continued smooth progress.

“Just a week after the Pochin news was announced the team has returned to site and is meeting with key members of the existing supply chain to reassure them of Genr8’s commitment to complete the project.”

Kier to start work on £50m new home for Durham council

Kier will start main construction work on the new £50m home of Durham County Council next month.

Work in the city centre will create a modern building less than a third of the size of the current County Hall building and will accommodate 1,000 staff.

Major works on site will begin in around four weeks and will see the building complete in autumn 2021.

As part of the project, Kier will create 250 new jobs in the local area that will be a mix of apprenticeships and employment opportunities for locals currently unemployed.

Tom Gilman, managing director for Kier Property North said: “We’re excited to be developing this 110,000 sq ft building and seeing the overall added value that this scheme will bring to the County.”

Brian McQuade, managing director for Kier Regional Building Scotland and North East added: “This project, in the heart of Durham City provides us with an excellent opportunity to not only deliver a first-class facility for Durham County Council but to also create exciting job opportunities in the local community.

“We aim to leave a positive legacy in all areas we operate and look forward to working with our local supply chain partners and Durham County Council to deliver this new project.”

Cllr Joy Allen, Cabinet member for transformation, culture and tourism at Durham County Council, said: “The development of the Aykley Heads site presents a once in a generation opportunity to transform the county’s economic prospects, with the development of what will be one of the most attractive business parks in the whole of the North East, and has the full support of the business community.

“The planned development will create thousands of new high-quality jobs and future employment opportunities for our young people, as well as bringing millions of pounds of investment into the county.”

Following the opening of the new headquarters, the current site of Durham County Hall at Aykley Heads has been earmarked as the site for a new multi-million-pound business district that could create 6,000 new jobs and deliver a £400m boost to the county economy once complete.

Kier to start work on £50m new home for Durham council