Stoford has been appointed to deliver 16 hectares of commercial space in Shropshire. A development agreement has been signed with the landowner, Ruckley Estate, and Harrow Estates to bring forward the 39-hectare site on the edge of Shifnal. The scheme will adjoin the existing Shifnal Industrial Estate to the nearby
Horsham-based Sigma Homes has secured a 1.9Ha (4.7acres) site in the sought after West Sussex village of Barns Green. The £16m development scheme will deliver 32 highly energy-efficient homes. Located off Chapel Road, the site – to be known as Sumners Fields – is situated in Barns Green’s largely rural
GMI Construction Group has appointed Darryl Brown to the newly created role of Regional Commercial Director for the North East. Working alongside Regional Director Gary Oates, he is tasked with further growing the independent company’s presence in the region. Having moved into larger offices on Teesside earlier this year, GMI
Yesterday HS2 celebrated the breakthrough of a tunnelling machine into its underground Old Oak Common station – marking a key milestone in plans to eventually carry the high-speed line into central London. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) named Lydia finished its near-kilometre long journey into the station box in a
Bowater Doors, part of Birtley Group, has strengthened the business with the appointment of Pete White in a new role as Head of Sales. An experienced sales professional, Pete has joined the leading composite and fire door manufacturer as the business looks to ramp up its supply to national house
Industrial engine supply and service specialist Finning UK & Ireland is highlighting the important efficiency benefits – such as increased availability and reduced risk – of the Cat® Remote Fleet Vision (RFV) performance monitoring platform by introducing a new entry level pricing structure for those looking to trial the technology. Offering 24-7 insight
TopWerk Group, the global leader in concrete manufacturing equipment and technology, has officially endorsed Partanna Global’s ground-breaking carbon-negative binder technology as the number one green alternative to traditional Portland cement. As part of a collaboration agreement between the two companies, announced today at the World of Concrete conference in Las
With the addition of new high-capacity models to sit alongside the award-winning EDiA trucks, the electric counterbalance series from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is now an even more complete solution, covering capacities from 1.4–12 tonnes. Offering huge power with no compromises to performance and precision, the 6–12-tonne FB60-120N(H) Series features best-in-class
The UK’s market leader for taps and showers, Bristan, has released its new Environmental, Social Responsibility and Governance (ESG) report which shines a spotlight on its water-saving products – including its new Eco Start technology. The report outlines the organisation’s commitment to sustainability with one of the key focuses being
Aqua Safety Showers is one of the UK’s leading providers of emergency safety showers. Essential for the welfare of operatives working in environments involving chemical hazards, the shower systems depend on their electrical supply for power, control and alarms. Robust junction boxes are vital to ensure long-term system reliability, so
Stoford has been appointed to deliver 16 hectares of commercial space in Shropshire. A development agreement has been signed with the landowner, Ruckley Estate, and Harrow Estates to bring forward the 39-hectare site on the edge of Shifnal. The scheme will adjoin the existing Shifnal Industrial Estate to the nearby Jct 3 of the M54 and forms part of the Shropshire Local Plan. More than 2.5 million sq ft of industrial/logistics accommodation has been delivered by Stoford in the last twelve months alone. Recent schemes include a 667,000 sq ft UK parts distribution centre for Stellantis at Ellesmere Port and a £93 million distribution centre in Staffordshire on behalf of Pets at Home. Andy Hartwright, land director at Stoford, said: “We look forward to working with Ruckley Estate and one of the UK’s best-in-class land promoters, Harrow Estates, to deliver this much-needed commercial development scheme. There are already several interested parties in the site given its accessible location near Telford and Wolverhampton, in a region starved of quality development opportunities.” Keith Ashbourne of Ruckley Estate, said: “This exciting development will mean jobs on the doorstep for the people of Shifnal. Having seen first hand the high quality build standards achieved by Stoford, we had no hesitation in joining forces with them.” Guy Vernon, head of land at Harrow Estates, said: “This development agreement with Stoford, a UK leading occupier-led developer, demonstrates our commitment to delivering this employment allocation. Stoford’s reputation for high-quality development, at national scale, will give further confidence to occupiers to invest in Shifnal and contribute towards its long-term prosperity east of the county.” The site is currently being marketed by Fisher German. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Horsham-based Sigma Homes has secured a 1.9Ha (4.7acres) site in the sought after West Sussex village of Barns Green. The £16m development scheme will deliver 32 highly energy-efficient homes. Located off Chapel Road, the site – to be known as Sumners Fields – is situated in Barns Green’s largely rural community, surrounded by expanses of countryside. Designed by Worthing-based ECE Architecture, the 32 homes will include one-, two-, three- and four- bedroom apartments and houses. 12 of these properties are allocated for affordable housing, providing an above policy 37.5% allocation. Hunter Developments Holdings Ltd and the Smith Family worked in close cooperation with Sigma Homes in developing the design proposal for the site. Geoff Potton, Chief Executive of Sigma Homes, said: “We are delighted to have secured another prime site in such a highly sought-after village, which is less than 5 miles from Horsham. With so many development proposals in the district currently held up by planning and pre-construction delays caused by Natural England’s current advice on water neutrality, this will be one of the first schemes to be delivered within Horsham District which achieves a water neutrality solution. The plans sensitively respond to the site characteristics and will result in a high quality, sustainable addition to Barns Green. “This mix of open market and affordable homes – suitable for first time buyers, families, and downsizers – are much-needed to meet local housing demand. As with all our developments, this scheme will be constructed utilising timber-frame technology and a range of other ‘green’ features including grey water recycling, to enable residents to significantly reduce their water usage, carbon footprint and energy bills. “2023 was a major milestone for Sigma Homes, as it marked our tenth year in business. With three other highly sustainable developments currently under construction across West Sussex, and with several more in the planning stage, we understand what our customers are looking for and the enviable lifestyle this county offers. The design, layout and build quality of our homes has been attracting discerning buyers for a decade now. We are immensely proud of the reputation for quality homes in prime locations that Sigma Homes have become synonymous with.” The village of Barns Green is a highly sought after location and benefits from a range of local amenities, including a village shop, post office, primary school, sports club, and village hall. Regular public transport is available to nearby villages and towns, including Horsham. The site is a five-minute drive (2.2 miles) from Christs Hospital train station, which has services running to London Victoria in under 70 minutes. There is also a frequent 32-minute train service to Gatwick Airport. If future residents wish to have a day out or travel to the coast, there are also services running to the historic market town of Arundel (20 minutes) and the popular seaside resort of Bognor Regis (41 minutes). The character of Barns Green is predominantly of a traditional style and material palette. Existing nearby properties include a combination of red brick and white painted window frames, timber-cladded rural homes, and more contemporary post-war dwellings. Due to the range of styles present within the village, Sigma Homes’ new development will follow a conventional yet modern style. New landscaping, public open space, and ecological enhancements will be provided with most of the existing trees and hedgerows will be retained and enhanced. There will be sufficient parking available for each new home, as well as cycle storage. Electric Vehicle charging points will be provided to all houses with a garage and driveway, with further charging points allocated to the apartments. Headquartered in the West Sussex town of Horsham, Sigma Homes was founded in 2013. The company has five live developments in premium locations across the south of England and is on track to deliver 200 homes per annum by 2026. All homes are constructed using timber frames, which improves efficiency, as well as delivering sustainability benefits. It was one of the first SMEs to be accepted onto the New Homes Quality Board, providing buyers with further peace of mind during the buying process, through the backing of this stringent new Code. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction Group has appointed Darryl Brown to the newly created role of Regional Commercial Director for the North East. Working alongside Regional Director Gary Oates, he is tasked with further growing the independent company’s presence in the region. Having moved into larger offices on Teesside earlier this year, GMI further strengthened its position after joining the framework of the North East Purchasing Organisation (NEPO), allowing it to tender for public sector contracts involving the region’s 12 local authorities. GMI, one of the largest independent construction firms in the North of England and Midlands, recently completed several high profile projects including 362,600 sq. ft of commercial units at Hillthorn Business Park, Washington, and the 650,000 sq. ft Connect warehouse and logistics scheme at the Integra 61 development near Bowburn, Durham. Chris Weathers, Group Commercial Director said: “The North East is a key area for the business as it delivers the necessary infrastructure that will attract investment and jobs to the area” “As a result, we have expanded our team to reflect our growing pipeline of work and having Darryl in the Regional Commercial Director role is pivotal in delivering significant new projects.” Gary Oates, Regional Director of the North-East said: “Darryl brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of landing new contracts and taking overall commercial control of major projects. “We look forward to the positive impact Darryl’s appointment will have on the region and its future growth.” With more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, Darryl joins GMI from Leeds-based Priestley Construction, where he was Head of Commercial. Having graduated from Leeds Beckett University with a Bsc in Project Management, he started out as an assistant site manager, later progressing through a series of Quantity Surveyor roles. Darryl, from North Yorkshire, said: “I’m delighted to join GMI and look forward to working with its team in the North East and growing its portfolio of public and private clients across multiple sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Yesterday HS2 celebrated the breakthrough of a tunnelling machine into its underground Old Oak Common station – marking a key milestone in plans to eventually carry the high-speed line into central London. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) named Lydia finished its near-kilometre long journey into the station box in a move that completes the construction of the Atlas Road Logistics Tunnel. The 853m long tunnel, which runs from the Atlas Road logistics hub, is being built to service the programme to construct the line eastwards towards Euston. It will eventually allow materials required for the Euston Tunnel to be transported to the site without clogging up local roads or disrupting work going on elsewhere at Old Oak Common station HS2’s London tunnels contractor, Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture (SCS JV) constructed the logistics tunnel using a TBM made from components repurposed from a machine previously used to construct London’s Elizabeth Line. The TBM is named Lydia, a name selected by the local community, after Lydia Gandaa – a former teacher at Old Oak Common Primary School. The TBM broke through into the eastern end of the Old Oak Common underground station box, which is currently under construction by a separate joint venture – Balfour Beatty Vinci SYSTRA (BBVS JV). Later this year, SCS JV will lower two additional TBMs into the box and assemble them ready to bring the HS2 line into Euston. Once they are in place BBVS JV will seal the box and continue to construct HS2’s super-hub station. Speaking about the milestone, Malcolm Codling, Project Client Director for HS2 Ltd said: “The completion of the Atlas Road Logistics Tunnel takes us closer along our journey to bring HS2 into central London at Euston. The logistics tunnel is a key part of our plans to enable us to construct the Euston Tunnel and will reduce the construction impact on the local community.” Over the past nine months, TBM Lydia has removed 62,000 tonnes of London Clay, all of which is sent by rail for beneficial reuse across the UK and has installed 535 concrete rings. The segments for the tunnel rings were manufactured by Pacadar UK in Kent. A team of 100 has been working around the clock to complete the tunnel, working in shifts to operate the TBM and the above ground operations. The experienced SCS JV team have also used their expertise to develop more team members at the early stages of their careers, including apprentices and graduates for whom this was their first time constructing a bored tunnel. The logistics tunnel will be used to deliver materials to the two Euston Tunnel TBMs, including over 56,000 concrete tunnel segments manufactured by STRABAG in Hartlepool, and take away the London Clay excavated. Bringing in materials by road and removing the excavated spoil for the Euston Tunnel would have been logistically challenging and would have had significant impact local roads and on the work to construct the station. The logistics tunnel was the optimum solution to enable HS2 to reach Euston. Once the Euston Tunnel is complete and the railway is operational, the logistics tunnel will be backfilled. James Richardson, Managing Director of Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, said: “The completion of the Atlas Road logistics tunnel paves the way for us to deliver our London tunnels programme to Euston. The tunnel supports our continued commitment to reducing cost and carbon by removing one million lorry journeys off London’s roads.” Following the government’s Network North announcement in October, alternative funding arrangements for the delivery of Euston station are being considered. However, work is continuing with the preparations and design of the railway between Old Oak Common and Euston. HS2 is making significant progress on the construction of the tunnels for the new railway. The Chiltern Tunnel TBMs are due to complete their work by spring, and this will be the second twin bored tunnel that has completed by HS2, alongside the Long Itchington Tunnel. Further north, HS2 is working to complete the Bromford Tunnel. In London, two further TBMs are about to launch, part of the quartet of TBMs boring the Northolt Tunnel. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bowater Doors, part of Birtley Group, has strengthened the business with the appointment of Pete White in a new role as Head of Sales. An experienced sales professional, Pete has joined the leading composite and fire door manufacturer as the business looks to ramp up its supply to national house builders and for social housing refurbishment and social rebuild. Previously, Pete headed up a team of five as Northern Sales Director for Vent-Axia. The business manufactured and supplied ventilation, heating and air conditioning equipment for social housing and local authority housing. Within his role at Bowater, Pete will appoint and lead a national sales team for the business, which is headquartered in Birtley, Gateshead. Pete aims to increase revenues as the firm meets the requirements of house building groups as well as local authorities and housing associations responsible for tenancy new builds and retrofit projects. Pete said: “Having worked in the UK manufacturing sector, I know Bowater Doors is an established business that is well-regarded within the sectors that it serves. “It is great to be joining a North East employer and am looking forward to being an intrinsic part of an entrepreneurial company. I plan to raise Bowater’s provision of fire doors and composite doors for residential new builds and renovation projects for social housing houses, flats and tower blocks. “A robust supply chain of composite doors and BM Trada performance certified fire doors and frames are fundamental for house building and retrofitting. I am excited about meeting Bowater’s current and new clients and being involved with their projects.” Jason Anderson, Managing Director for Birtley Group, added: “We’re delighted that a person of Pete’s calibre and experience is now a part of the business, as we support Bowater customers across the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Industrial engine supply and service specialist Finning UK & Ireland is highlighting the important efficiency benefits – such as increased availability and reduced risk – of the Cat® Remote Fleet Vision (RFV) performance monitoring platform by introducing a new entry level pricing structure for those looking to trial the technology. Offering 24-7 insight into asset performance, the Cat RFV platform gathers a wide range of data points from within the engine and connects these to a single remote platform for analysis – customised to individual business needs. The Cat RFV can also be connected to datapoints across the piece of equipment the engine is installed in, allowing owners to build a full picture of performance and decide how uptime can be optimised. Now Finning has made access to this technology even easier with low-cost entry level pricing. Matt Bryan, Product Support Lead – Industrial at Finning, explains: “The RFV platform is proven to offer important performance benefits for Caterpillar customers around the world. Industrial customers can benefit from an unparalleled level of visibility into how their engine is running, allowing them to make timely decisions on performance adjustments, as well as diagnose faults and share error codes with Finning to facilitate quick, first-time fix maintenance. “Alongside this fantastic depth of engine data and insight, the flexibility of the system allows it to be used to monitor key performance indicators across an entire piece of equipment – from a water pump to a rock crusher and all points in between. This means owners have just one consolidated platform for monitoring their assets.” Aggregate Processing and Recycling Limited (Agg-Pro), one of the UK’s largest suppliers of crushing, screening, washing and recycling equipment, has recently benefitted from fitting Cat RFV equipment to all engines that pass through its workshop in Tamworth. The installation of PL542 remote monitoring systems on various Cat engines, from C4.4 to C9.3, in the company’s crushing and screening units enables monitoring of engine performance, run hours, and load factors. This capability replaces the previous methods of estimating, contacting customers, or dispatching engineers for data collection. Tony Gadsby, Service Manager at Agg-Pro, expressed his delight at the benefits realised: “Having an accurate picture of engine performance and run hours makes a big difference to optimising the reliability and uptime of our operation. Whilst previously this has been difficult to obtain, the support from Finning in supplying the Cat RFV platform has made it a reality – and given us a ready-made way of offering something that our competitors can’t. “Alongside being able to give our customers better advice on engine performance, it is now possible to remotely troubleshoot issues to further minimise downtime and track assets wherever they are across the country. We are now planning on expanding the use of the platform to all new Cat engines in use across the company and upgrading the fleet in the field too.” Bryan concludes: “It’s never been easier to trial the system given the highly competitive pricing levels we have introduced. Installation is straightforward with Finning experts on hand to support every step and advise on how to maximise the platform’s benefits – and crucially, get more from your equipment.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TopWerk Group, the global leader in concrete manufacturing equipment and technology, has officially endorsed Partanna Global’s ground-breaking carbon-negative binder technology as the number one green alternative to traditional Portland cement. As part of a collaboration agreement between the two companies, announced today at the World of Concrete conference in Las Vegas, TopWerk is formally endorsing Partanna as the most advanced green concrete solution in the market. TopWerk recognizes Partanna’s carbon negative binder as a direct, plug-and-play replacement solution to Portland cement, that is fully compatible with their machines. Partanna has also confirmed its plans to use TopWerk machinery for its first four factories globally. The exclusive agreement spans an initial term of three years with a global scope. As part of the partnership agreement, TopWerk will formally endorse Partanna to its existing global customer base, with a view to moving them from Portland cement to Partanna’s carbon negative binder. TopWerk’s endorsement follows a recent announcement by one of the world’s leading real estate developers, ROSHN, that it intends to invest into a new facility in Saudi Arabia, utilizing Partanna’s technology. In concrete production, Portland cement serves as an adhesive binder that holds together aggregates, allowing for the formation of durable structures. It is the world’s most used commodity after water and its production is responsible for 9% of the world’s emissions. Partanna’s patented process for concrete production negates the need for Portland cement. Instead, the company uses an alternative binder – made from natural recycled ingredients – which cures at room temperature. The binder components in Partanna consume CO₂ as they cure, removing carbon from the atmosphere in the process. This process ensures that concrete materials made with Partanna are carbon negative. Partanna materials are just as affordable, versatile and durable as concrete products made with Portland cement. Manufacturers do not need to purchase any special equipment or aggregates in order to produce Partanna concrete. Robert Gruss, CEO of TopWerk Group, said: “The construction industry has used cement as a major material since the Roman age, and in particular since the start of industrialisation. Today, the classical cement industry alone is one of the strongest CO₂ pollutants globally. “We believe our exclusive partner Partanna has come up with a truly impressive solution that can contribute to putting this practice to an end. “The company’s carbon negative binder is one of the most exciting innovations we have witnessed in our industry for decades. It is the most advanced alternative binder solution in the market and the only credibly carbon negative solution that has the potential to scale globally. “Over the last two years, we have rigorously tested their formula and have validated its application as a direct replacement solution for Portland cement. In many ways, their binder actually performs better than the legacy solution. “We believe that Partanna is not just an alternative to Portland cement, but can be a major part of the future of the concrete industry. Our endorsement reflects our absolute confidence in their technology and its potential to transform the market. This why we have joined hands in an exclusive cooperation.” TopWerk Group is the umbrella company of the world’s leading group of companies in the field of machines and plants for the industrial production of concrete products. Its brands include Hess Group, Hess AAC Systems, SR Schindler, Masa Group and Prinzing Pfeiffer. Rick Fox, CEO and co-founder of Partanna Global, added: “TopWerk’s endorsement of Partanna represents a major vote of confidence in our technology from one of the most respected names in global construction. “We’re humbled and proud that one of the world’s leading concrete machinery producers has given us their backing. We hope this signals to the industry that Portland cement is no longer the only solution in town, and that the days of burning rocks are fast coming to an end.” Partanna’s building material has been independently verified by Intertek, a leading international product testing and certification firm. This verification confirms that Partanna’s unique product meets and sometimes exceeds key ASTM standards, ensuring structural integrity and safety. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With the addition of new high-capacity models to sit alongside the award-winning EDiA trucks, the electric counterbalance series from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is now an even more complete solution, covering capacities from 1.4–12 tonnes. Offering huge power with no compromises to performance and precision, the 6–12-tonne FB60-120N(H) Series features best-in-class acceleration. A low overhead guard option is available on all models — even up to 12 tonnes — allowing the truck to be used in container applications for greater fleet flexibility. Single-tyre models are also available for a narrower profile, so it’s simple to specify one of these trucks to do heavy work in confined areas. H models feature Four Wheel Steering (4WS) which grants exceptional manoeuvrability, even in narrow spaces. With 4WS the front drive motors turn independently, offering superior grip and precision handling. The rear axle boasts a full 101-degree steering capability, with dual drive motors for instantaneous and smooth turning on the spot. This helps to eliminate the initial ‘push’ found with conventional drive systems. The load sensing hydraulic system ensures load handling functions react similarly to different weights. A high-lift traction control system ensures steadier and more controllable chassis movements in lifts above 2.5m. Low Noise Lift — a Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks innovation that has been widely praised since it appeared on the EDiA line — offers the quietest hydraulic pump on the market at just 65 dB. It means users will be less fatigued from extended noise exposure compared to working in similar trucks in its class. Operators will appreciate the spacious, open cabin, designed to comfortably accommodate drivers of all sizes. The cabin is rubber mounted to minimise vibrations and make for a more comfortable shift. Advanced control options, including dual joysticks for simultaneous lift and tilt functions, allow for customisation to meet customer requirements. Touch-sensitive fingertip controls provide a natural, spring-loaded response for fine-tuned handling, even while wearing heavy gloves. The ergonomic design extends to a fully adjustable driving position and self-centring steering wheel, positioned for exceptional control and comfort. All-round visibility is excellent, with the rear camera providing an improved look behind the truck, while the mast’s free-lift cylinder structure has been optimised with hoses over chains so operators can see more of the load and fork tips. With a low seat height comparable to many IC engine trucks, operators benefit from an easier entry and exit process, and it’s a much more familiar environment for those making the switch from IC to electric. The design also takes into account easy maintenance, with the two 48v batteries accessible without the need for doors, making battery exchange quicker and simpler. Each battery can be easily moved with a counterbalance truck or even just a pallet truck. Find out more For find out more about the award-winning Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks range, call the Greenline 0845 371 3048, contact info@mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk or visit www.mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s market leader for taps and showers, Bristan, has released its new Environmental, Social Responsibility and Governance (ESG) report which shines a spotlight on its water-saving products – including its new Eco Start technology. The report outlines the organisation’s commitment to sustainability with one of the key focuses being the innovation of energy and water-saving products. Recently, Bristan has introduced innovative Eco Start technology on bathroom taps, which saves energy by having cold water as the default central start position of the tap handle. This means that hot water is only activated when the tap lever is moved from the central position, so your boiler is not unnecessarily fired up. Also featured in its comprehensive water-efficient portfolio are pre-fitted flow limiters, infrared taps that automatically turn off when not in use, and BREEAM-certified self-closing ‘push button’ taps. As with all Bristan products, the water-efficient range is rigorously tested to comply with key regulations and industry requirements, so that specifiers can have complete confidence when working on a project. Plus, Bristan’s UKAS-accredited lab recycles 90% of the water used to carry out endurance testing of our products, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. Craig Rendall, Bristan Group Specification Director, comments: “Whether working in the housebuilding or commercial sector, we understand that sustainability targets are a key consideration when specifying for a project. That’s why we’re proud to offer our range of water-saving products, to make it a trouble-free decision for specifiers every time.” The ESG report also details the wider sustainability commitments of the wider Bristan Group. As a zero-to-landfill company, it has extensive measures in place to ensure that approximately 295 tonnes of waste produced each year are recycled, reused or repurposed. What’s more, Bristan Group is in the process of having 1666 solar panels installed on the roof of its Tamworth-based head office, which is expected to generate 600kw/hour of electricity to support business operations and will equate to a CO2 saving up to 111,292 kgs per annum. With a clear roadmap of sustainability initiatives behind them, Bristan Group’s products can be bought with confidence and trusted to help reduce the UK’s overall carbon footprint — one tap or shower at a time. Bristan Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance Report can be found here. To discover Bristan’s range of water-saving products, visit the website here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aqua Safety Showers is one of the UK’s leading providers of emergency safety showers. Essential for the welfare of operatives working in environments involving chemical hazards, the shower systems depend on their electrical supply for power, control and alarms. Robust junction boxes are vital to ensure long-term system reliability, so the manufacturer has partnered with Spelsberg for the durability they need. To deliver customer demand with a fast build, the enclosures must also be quick to wire up and install. In environments where hazardous substances are in use, human safety is imperative. This means that for locations such as wastewater treatment plants and industrial production facilities, where operatives often work in close proximity to potentially harmful chemicals, close availability of an emergency safety shower is a critical requirement. Aqua Safety Showers, based in Wigan, supplies emergency safety showers to contractors across the UK. These installers fit and support Aqua Safety Showers’ range of plumbed-in, mains-fed showers and eye-wash systems, predominantly to industrial facilities, but wherever personnel might come into contact with potentially harmful chemicals. Reachable in 10 seconds Today in the UK, stringent health & safety regulations covering the potential of chemicals coming into eye contact mean that many environments require a system with a plumbed-in eye wash. Should the system be needed, a continual water source enables constant irrigation of the eye. Alternatively, if chemicals come into contact with the skin, the Health & Safety Executive’s Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations might require a 15-minute shower wash-off. The close proximity of eye washes and showers to the hazard are necessary too, and the recommendation is that these systems should be reachable within 10 seconds. Aqua Safety Showers supplies around 200 units a year, each one built to order, and the company also features on the framework supplier list of national water authorities and various blue-chip industrial corporations. All the company’s emergency safety showers are manufactured to ANSI or BS standards. With a highly robust, long-lasting construction, Aqua Safety Showers only manufactures with stainless steel and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) materials, which also ensures that their showers resist corrosion. For safety, to ensure constant availability, all tank fed safety showers are provided with a power failure alarm to enable rapid inspection. Aqua Safety Showers also includes features such as digital water temperature displays as standard, along with photo luminous shower signage for clear viewing in darker environments. Durable enclosures with high IP rating In addition to a power connection, each emergency safety shower needs electrical inputs for system telemetry and alarms. Aqua Safety Showers has partnered with Spelsberg UK for the supply of junction boxes that protect these terminal connections. As per installation guidance, junction boxes should be positioned in as safe and sheltered a location as possible. Even though the enclosure is fitted to the rear of the shower unit, out of the direct water flow, these protective boxes feature an IP66 rating, necessary to prevent any water ingress. As the showers are always installed in rugged, industrial environments, the enclosures also need to afford strong protection for their electrical connections. Spelsberg’s enclosures feature high impact resistance as a result of their robust polycarbonate construction. As Aqua Safety Systems supplies its range pre-wired, ready for installation by the contractor, ease of using the enclosures is crucial to minimise resources and complexity in build. “Spelsberg makes the junction boxes with all the terminals and dividers set up, ready for us to come in with our wiring,” explains Janet Waine, Managing Director, Aqua Safety Showers. “They’re very easy to use. Thanks to Spelsberg’s integrated knock-outs, we establish the cable entry points, dependent on the configuration the customer needs, and then we seal each cable with the special cable glands that maintain the IP rating.” Positive customer service Thanks to Spelsberg UK’s in-house customisation team, the enclosure manufacturer also provides a printing service, applying Aqua Safety System’s logo and contact details to the box. This not only saves time and cost for the shower manufacturer, but it also ensures a long-lasting finish. The company has used Spelsberg enclosures since it began trading in 2016, but Janet explains that she has specified Spelsberg enclosures since she began in the market nearly 30 years ago. “Spelsberg is a really easy and pleasant company to work with. The support is great, and if there’s anything we need to serve our customers, the Spelsberg team are there to support us. There’s always a quick turnaround, and the quality of the enclosures is always really high.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
