Proposals for a project to bring around 1,000 new homes to Hull city centre have today been approved by Cabinet. Schemes on three city centre brownfield sites will now move a step further to preparing and marketing the sites for developer interest. One site, known as East Bank Urban Village
The Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) was delighted to support and raise awareness of sprinklers at the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) Built Environment Conference Series, taking place in Cardiff and Salford in June 2023. Following the theme of Performance, Compliance and Safety, CABE’s Built Environment England and Wales Conferences
Jacksons Fencing, a renowned supporter of wildlife conservation, is making significant strides in promoting hedgehog-friendly security fencing. In 2015, the company became the first British fencing manufacturer to introduce a hedgehog-friendly timber gravel board, for residential use. This breakthrough innovation is compatible with their timber fence panels and slotted posts.
Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading education fitout specialists, has been awarded its 16th contract for Morrison Construction. The new project involves the provision of around 6,000 items of loose and fitted furniture for a primary school and community hub now under construction in Aberdeen. This contract for Greyhope School
After successfully trialling Volvo Trucks’ first fully electric skip loader, Powerday – London’s leading recycling and waste management company – has become one of the first companies in the UK to place an order for the Swedish manufacturer’s vehicles. Powerday currently operates a fleet of over 70 vehicles, servicing construction
Effective maintenance and management of equipment are the cornerstones of successful operations in a myriad of industries. Whether it’s a small mechanic’s shop, a large manufacturing plant, or a cutting-edge tech startup, the lifespan of equipment directly impacts productivity, cost-efficiency, and safety. Technicians, as the primary individuals responsible for equipment
Proposals for a project to bring around 1,000 new homes to Hull city centre have today been approved by Cabinet. Schemes on three city centre brownfield sites will now move a step further to preparing and marketing the sites for developer interest. One site, known as East Bank Urban Village will see up to 850 new homes, with another 200 properties at a second site at St Stephen’s Place. It is anticipated these sites would offer the potential for high-quality apartments providing social rooftop areas and spaces for families, outdoor play and integrated green spaces, as well as private gardens and sports provisions. Myton City Gateway is expected to be of mixed commercial use and, given its prominence and proximity to the A63 Castle Street improvements, could deliver an impressive entrance to the city centre with opportunities for retail, commercial and leisure developments. The overall ambition of the projects is to offer new, inclusive neighbourhoods where people choose to live, work and play, all whilst developing unused brownfield land in the city centre. This would combine Hull’s unique features to create highly sustainable mixed-use urban developments, as well as balanced and diverse high-quality living which respects and reflects the history of each site. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) was delighted to support and raise awareness of sprinklers at the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) Built Environment Conference Series, taking place in Cardiff and Salford in June 2023. Following the theme of Performance, Compliance and Safety, CABE’s Built Environment England and Wales Conferences were held at Salford University and Cardiff Metropolitan University on the 20th and 22nd June. Attracting expert panels interacting with a wide range of construction and property sector professionals, the technical leadership conferences cover the key issues within the sector today, including building safety, construction materials, quality, performance and zero carbon within the built environment and all tailored to the key issues for audiences the UK regions. In Salford, the keynote address from the recently appointed Deputy Chief Inspector of buildings, Chris Griffin-McTiernan, shared an insight into the setting up of the new Building Safety Regulator (BSR) including the latest on the registration of high-rise residential buildings (HRBs), the new duty holding regimes, and the future regulation of the building control profession. A particular number that stuck out was that a third of consultations with the BSR over high rise buildings still raise a concern but this is an improvement over the past 12 months. It was perhaps reflected by the audience questions as to whether the market is changing or waiting for new instructions. Richard Harral, CABE’s Technical Director added to this by explaining the significant scope within the Building Safety Act, describing it as the largest piece of legislation since World War II. A fact that had not registered before now and signals the scale of the journey. The act brings clarity to the question of responsibility and emphasises the importance of understanding one’s role within the framework. Ray Quinn of BB7 gave an interesting insight into the role of the fire engineer and how that needs to progress. One element that caught the eye was how he highlighted the outcome of protecting people and property came together needed to be discussed and addressed. Perhaps more telling as people discussed safety was his strong line in that when all is said and done there is no point of “zero risk”. In both Salford and Cardiff there were sessions on the thorny subject of product regulation.The overriding sentiment was that products should deliver on their intended purpose when installed correctly, living up to their claims. Equally within that is the need for those selecting such products to understand their role within that process as designers. The mechanisms to deliver that are still developing. Other keynote speakers in Salford and Cardiff included Jon Vanstone (Chair of the Interim Competence Committee), Hanna Clarke (Digital and Policy Manager at CPA), Amanda Stubbs (Partner at Trowers & Hamlins) and Dr. Hywel Davies (Chief Technical Officer at CIBSE). Tom Roche, Secretary of the Business Sprinkler commented: “While continual progress was being made, the industry is still on a journey to the full implementation of regulatory change. The notion for waiting for everything to be clarified is just not practical in a sea of so much change. What we can see is how safeguarding people and property can form clear objectives.” Competency is central to the thinking on changing the construction and fire safety sectors, “it is essential to possess and maintain expertise in your area of specialism and acknowledge your limits.” These technical conferences gave the BSA the ideal platform to discuss the benefits of sprinklers to protect people and their property, and how active fire protection can play a role in sustainability. “We are delighted to lend our support to these regional events, where we can see education and knowledge are key,” said Tom Roche, Secretary of the Business Sprinkler Alliance. “It was very encouraging to see a greater understanding of the benefits and an increased adoption of sprinkler systems.” The Business Sprinkler Alliance advocates greater business resilience by enhancing protection against fire through the increased acceptance and use of fire sprinklers in commercial and industrial premises. For more information or to book a place at upcoming CABE regional events for Scotland on 6th September and Ireland on 19th September, visit https://www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org/events For more information about the Business Sprinkler Alliance visit www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jacksons Fencing, a renowned supporter of wildlife conservation, is making significant strides in promoting hedgehog-friendly security fencing. In 2015, the company became the first British fencing manufacturer to introduce a hedgehog-friendly timber gravel board, for residential use. This breakthrough innovation is compatible with their timber fence panels and slotted posts. This pioneering product not only safeguards fence panels from ground contact but also incorporates a designated hole to facilitate the passage of hedgehogs. This seemingly small modification plays a crucial role in combating the declining population of hedgehogs by providing them with convenient access between areas for essential activities like foraging and mating. Pushing boundaries Recognising the need to extend this initiative beyond residential gardens, Jacksons Fencing is aiming to tackle the matter of hedgehog-friendly fencing in commercial sites too. The company aims to raise awareness among architects, specifiers, and end-users about the availability of hedgehog-friendly fencing options and the importance of incorporating them in their projects. Certain commercial fencing types, such as mesh fencing with larger apertures: V mesh, twin wire panels, and chain link, for example, have recently come under scrutiny due to their potential to trap or endanger hedgehogs. Although attempts to create openings or holes in these fences have been made, they often prove ineffective as hedgehogs may not be aware of such access points or may not be able to navigate them safely. This revelation has prompted Jacksons Fencing to advocate for the species by highlighting alternative products that prioritise both wildlife preservation and high security requirements of sites which require security fencing, where suitable. Safe and secure solutions Among the recommended solutions, vertical bar fencing emerges as the optimal choice, as it seamlessly integrates security and hedgehog-friendly features. With gaps between pales designed to adhere to anti-trap regulations, hedgehogs can navigate through the fencing effortlessly, ensuring their safety. These fences also feature sturdy construction, concealed, tamper-proof fixings, an attractive appearance, and minimal obstruction to visibility, making them an ideal choice for various applications. Additionally, Jacksons Fencing highlights the advantages of high concealment mesh fencing, particularly their innovative EuroGuard® Combi product. This solution combines rigid V mesh panels with interlaced wooden slats, delivering both privacy and a natural aesthetic while upholding the strength and security expected from a steel mesh fence. The incorporation of timber slats effectively covers mesh gaps, preventing hedgehogs from getting stuck while still providing a secure enclosure. A race against time Considering hedgehogs have been listed as vulnerable to extinction since 2020, Jacksons Fencing is dedicated to actively raising awareness of this pressing issue and promoting the adoption of hedgehog-friendly alternatives. Action is being taken by UK charities. A ‘Hedgehog Friendly Fencing’ campaign was recently launched by Hedgehog Street, a collaboration between People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS). Central to the campaign is the establishment of ‘Hedgehog Highways’ as the industry standard in garden fencing, which we applaud. Peter Jackson, Managing Director, Jacksons Fencing says, “Jacksons Fencing has championed Hedgehog Highways for several years. We have updated our product literature, specifications, and online content to educate our customers and specifiers about the availability and benefits of wildlife-friendly fencing options. Prioritising hedgehog preservation and conservation, is just one example of our commitment to sustainability and the well-being of wildlife.” For more information about hedgehog-friendly commercial fencing, please click here. To find out more about the Hedgehog Friendly Fencing campaign, please click here.
Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading education fitout specialists, has been awarded its 16th contract for Morrison Construction. The new project involves the provision of around 6,000 items of loose and fitted furniture for a primary school and community hub now under construction in Aberdeen. This contract for Greyhope School and Community Hub follows the successful completion of Countesswells Primary School – Deanestor’s latest school fitout to be delivered for the same project team. Both projects are for Aberdeen City Council, and are with main contractor Morrison and delivery authority Hub North Scotland. The architects are Halliday Fraser Munro. The new £18m Countesswells Primary School was handed over a month ahead of programme. This will serve the growing local community, catering for up to 434 pupils with an additional 60 early learning and childcare places. Deanestor fitted out 74 rooms across the two-storey school, providing nearly 5,000 items of fitted and loose furniture. These included curved shelving, bag and shoe storage, learning walls, changing benches, seating, and storage solutions. Michael Black, Construction Manager at Morrison Construction, said, “Deanestor contributed to a very successful project at Countesswells. This new two-stream school was handed over defect-free four weeks early, which was a considerable achievement.” “The fitout went very well – from the technical drawings produced by Deanestor at the early stages to the high standard of workmanship in the factory and on site. They are part of our established supply chain, and we are looking forward to working with their team on the Greyhope School project, which is now underway.” Martin Greig, Councillor and Education and Children’s Services Convener at Aberdeen City Council, said, “Deanestor has a great willingness to work collaboratively with us to inform the design process from both a cost-centred perspective and to ensure the required technical performance. Their team’s use of 3D technology, participation in workshops, and flexible approach allow us to fine tune the specification of the furniture very easily to meet our stakeholders’ requirements. The furniture is robust and will be easy to maintain.” “At Countesswells, we chose neutral colours for the walls and flooring, and grey, white, and grey wood-effect finishes for the fitted furniture to create a calming environment. Bright pops of colour are then highlighted to enliven the spaces and create identities for different zones and year groups. These colours provide an element of fun and are picked out in some of the fittings. Following the success of this project, Greyhope School will follow an identical design theme.” A spokesperson for the Aberdeen City Council Client Team working on the Greyhope School and Community Hub Project said, “Deanestor has been easy to work with and went the extra mile to achieve client results in creating excellent collaborative, interesting and functional spaces for the school and the community – and in particular, the school classrooms, community library/cafe and the community general office space. We are looking forward to working with the Deanestor team once again.” Ramsay McDonald, Managing Director for Deanestor in Scotland said, “We are delighted to be working on another school project with this award-winning construction team. It will create a truly inspirational learning environment for local children and invaluable community facilities. Our team did a fantastic job of delivering our contract and contributing to the early handover.” Greyhope School and Community Hub represents a £28m investment by Aberdeen City Council to provide a new primary school and a range of amenities for the local community including a café, library, performance facilities and housing office. The school will accommodate 434 pupils and a further 100 children in an early years centre. Deanestor’s contract at Greyhope School is for the fitted furniture for 117 rooms which will be finished in graphite grey and white, and loose items supplied in a palette of bright colours – lime green, yellow, powder blue, parrot green and tangerine. Items manufactured by Deanestor will include a trophy cabinet, tilt-top tables, worktops, desks, storage solutions, lockers, and teaching walls. Deanestor manufactures and installs robust and flexible loose and fixed furniture solutions for early years, primary, SEN, and secondary education, fitting out areas such as classrooms, science laboratories, ICT, design and technology, atria, social dining spaces, break-out areas, sports facilities, and changing rooms. For further information, visit www.deanestor.co.uk/education, call 01623 420041 or email enquiries@deanestor.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
After successfully trialling Volvo Trucks’ first fully electric skip loader, Powerday – London’s leading recycling and waste management company – has become one of the first companies in the UK to place an order for the Swedish manufacturer’s vehicles. Powerday currently operates a fleet of over 70 vehicles, servicing construction clients across the south east. The two new Volvo electric vehicles will come into service in September and are expected to save more than 30 tonnes in CO2 emissions per year. The new skip loaders will initially be based at the company’s Old Oak Sidings site, in north west London. Transition to electric The shift to using the electric skip loaders comes after Powerday launched its latest Sustainability Manifesto, which revealed its commitment to achieve net zero status by 2040. The annual report outlines the company’s targets for the year, and reports on progress for the previous year, under five sustainability pillars: employees, community, carbon management, clients, and procurement. Powerday has been measuring its Scope 1 and 2 emissions since 2020. It has set the 2040 net zero target – relative to a 2021 baseline – with interim goals of a 20% reduction in 2023, 35% by 2026 and 50% by 2030. The commitment has been registered with SME Climate Hub to count towards the UN Race to Net Zero. A revolution in skip loading vehicles Driven by a two-speed transmission, offering a smooth and comfortable driving experience, the Volvo’s electric’s power is handled by a unique traction control system developed to master even slippery surfaces, while different drive modes are available to set the desired performance, comfort, and energy usage levels. Equipped with four batteries, it offers a range of approximately 190km and can be recharged in just 2.3 hours using the 150kW DC charger that has been installed at Powerday’s Old Oak Sidings site. Chris Donnelly, Sales Director, Volvo Trucks commented: “Powerday conducted trials last year when we first launched our fully electric skip loader demonstrator, installing infrastructure at its own cost for the trial to take place. This showed immediate commitment and we were very grateful. “The data following the trials was staggering. We had predicted returns of course from our Electric Range Simulator, however, the performance was far better than expected. We congratulate Powerday on its bold environmental targets and look forward to supporting them on its road to Net Zero.” Edward Crossan, CEO, Powerday, added: “In line with our net-zero roadmap, adopting these electric skip loaders into our fleet shows our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to cleaner air and environment in London. “As a pioneer in the waste management industry, we proudly stand as the first company to embrace the future of sustainability. By investing in electric skip loaders, we lead the charge towards cleaner, greener solutions.”
Effective maintenance and management of equipment are the cornerstones of successful operations in a myriad of industries. Whether it’s a small mechanic’s shop, a large manufacturing plant, or a cutting-edge tech startup, the lifespan of equipment directly impacts productivity, cost-efficiency, and safety. Technicians, as the primary individuals responsible for equipment maintenance, can make a significant difference by adhering to best practices that enhance equipment lifespan. This practical guide provides actionable insights that technicians across industries can apply to maximize their equipment’s operational life and performance. Understanding Your Equipment 1. Comprehensive Equipment Knowledge The first step towards maintaining any piece of equipment is understanding it thoroughly. Technicians should be familiar with every aspect of their equipment, including their working principles, operational parameters, components, and maintenance requirements. Comprehensive knowledge enables early detection of potential issues, timely troubleshooting, and informed decision-making on repair or replacement. 2. Manufacturer’s Guidelines Always pay close attention to the manufacturer’s guidelines. These documents provide crucial information about optimal operating conditions, regular maintenance schedules, and warning signs of potential malfunctions. Adhering to these recommendations ensures the equipment operates within its designed parameters, prolonging its useful life. Preventative Maintenance 1. Regular Inspections Performing regular, detailed inspections is crucial to identifying potential issues before they amplify into severe problems. These inspections need to include a comprehensive visual examination, in-depth performance assessment, and a meticulous inspection of critical components. Inspections should ideally surpass the manufacturer’s minimum recommendations, accounting for the fact that actual operational conditions could be significantly more challenging. The incorporation of predictive maintenance with continuous monitoring systems at this stage can provide invaluable insights. This approach enables operators to predict and pre-empt potential risks, significantly enhancing the longevity and reliability of the equipment. 2. Routine Servicing Routine servicing plays an indispensable role in considerably extending the lifespan of equipment. This process should involve thorough cleaning, appropriate lubrication, timely replacement of worn-out parts, and meticulous adjustments of components as needed. Predictive maintenance systems can drastically improve this aspect of maintenance. By analyzing historical data and machine-learning algorithms, these systems can predict when parts will likely fail or need adjustment. This ensures that service schedules are based on actual usage and wear, rather than arbitrary timelines, preventing unexpected breakdowns, reducing strain on parts, and maintaining optimal performance. 3. Condition Monitoring Leveraging advanced technologies such as vibration analysis, thermal imaging, and oil analysis is an effective way to identify early signs of equipment deterioration. However, taking advantage of predictive maintenance systems can significantly enhance this process. By consistently monitoring these conditions, predictive maintenance systems can identify subtle patterns and trends that may precede equipment failure. This allows technicians to act proactively, rather than reactively, saving significant time and costs associated with extensive repairs or replacements. Sustainable Use of Equipment 1. Proper Operation Even the most robust equipment can fail prematurely if not operated correctly. Technicians should ensure that all operators are trained to use the equipment as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes not pushing the equipment beyond its operational limits, proper startup and shutdown procedures, and adhering to safety protocols. 2. Environmental Considerations The surrounding environment can affect the lifespan of equipment. Factors like temperature, humidity, dust, and corrosive substances can accelerate wear and tear. Technicians should take these factors into account, adjusting the operation and maintenance strategies as needed. 3. Efficient Energy Use Technologies with energy-saving features not only reduce operational costs but also decrease stress on the equipment, prolonging its lifespan. By promoting energy-efficient practices, technicians can enhance the sustainability and lifespan of their equipment. Equipment Repairs and Upgrades 1. Timely Repairs Never postpone necessary repairs. Delaying repairs can lead to further damage and even total equipment failure. Prompt attention to malfunctions ensures that equipment remains in good working condition and extends its useful life. 2. Quality Parts When replacements are necessary, invest in quality parts. While these may cost more initially, they typically last longer and perform better, enhancing the equipment’s lifespan and reliability. 3. Upgrades and Retrofits Sometimes, it might be more beneficial to upgrade or retrofit existing equipment rather than replace it entirely. Upgrades can improve performance, efficiency, and longevity. However, the decision should be made after a careful cost-benefit analysis and considering the equipment’s remaining life expectancy. Sustaining Longevity and Productivity Maximizing equipment lifespan requires a proactive and informed approach from technicians. Through a combination of comprehensive equipment knowledge, preventative maintenance, sustainable use, and timely repairs, technicians can greatly enhance the useful life of their assets. Remember, prolonging equipment lifespan is not a one-time effort; it’s a continuous process of monitoring, learning, and adapting to the changing conditions and evolving technological landscape. By employing these best practices, technicians will not only improve their equipment’s lifespan but also contribute to cost savings, increased productivity, and enhanced workplace safety.
