December 3, 2024
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF).  This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than

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Why Every Construction Site Needs Asset Tracking Software

Why Every Construction Site Needs Asset Tracking Software

In construction work, effectively managing resources can make all the difference between achieving goals and facing obstacles ahead. Software for tracking assets offers an answer to this issue by offering a method for teams to monitor equipment, materials, and staff comprehensively. Grasping the advantages and features of software has the

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The Best Tools for Eye Protection and First Aid in Construction

The Best Tools for Eye Protection and First Aid in Construction

There’s no doubt that construction sites are among the most hazardous to work in. According to the Health and Safety Executive, its workplaces see the second-highest number of self-reported injuries across the country.   This mainly has to do with the materials construction workers use, the manual labour, and the environments

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Google Ads for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide to Paid Advertising Success

Google Ads for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide to Paid Advertising Success

In today’s digital world, potential clients often turn to online searches when seeking legal representation. To ensure your law firm stands out from the competition, a strong online presence is essential. While organic search engine optimization (SEO) is important for long-term visibility, Google Ads for lawyers provides a powerful way

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

December 3, 2024

Jon Howlin, CEO of The Skills Centre, comments on the Government’s plans to accelerate the replacement of dangerous cladding

Jon Howlin, CEO of The Skills Centre, comments on the Government’s plans to accelerate the replacement of dangerous cladding

Jon Howlin, CEO, The Skills Centre: “While we welcome the government’s plans to accelerate the replacement of dangerous cladding, it’s crucial to ensure that the work is carried out by fully trained professionals. The scale of the challenge is significant, with only 30% of buildings with unsafe cladding fully remediated to date. “Many cladding specialists are already supporting efforts to meet this growing skills gap. Our collaborative strategy is delivering specialist cladding bootcamps at Build East, helping to upskill existing workers and bring new entrants into the sector. These initiatives are vital for ensuring that remediation work meets the highest safety and quality standards. “By investing in workforce development, we can not only tackle the immediate issue but also strengthen the industry for the future, helping to create safer homes and buildings for communities across the UK. “This is a huge opportunity, not only for those interested in joining the construction sector, but for those in the sector to build valuable and in-demand skills, and individuals can apply via our website here: Introduction to Cladding Occupations | The Skills Centre “We also invite cladding companies seeking to expand their teams to collaborate with us. Together, we can ensure the workforce is ready to deliver this critical work safely and efficiently. For more information contact info@theskillscentre.co.uk” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF).  This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than a decade, and represents a significant update and consolidation of previous guidelines to reflect the very latest legislative requirements and best practices in the industry.  It provides an essential reference and resource for a broad spectrum of construction industry professionals including architects, building control officers, fire officers, responsible persons, duty holders, manufacturers, specifiers, and suppliers of building hardware and fire doors.  GAI technical manager Douglas Masterson said: “The primary goal of this Code of Practice is to ensure that key stakeholders throughout the construction industry have access to the most current and comprehensive advice on selecting hardware that meets the stringent requirements for fire safety and escape routes.  “While the Code is advisory, it is designed to provide robust guidance that aligns with the latest legal standards.  “While compliance with the Code does not confer immunity from legal, local authority or insurance requirements, it will significantly enhance the safety and reliability of fire-resisting and escape door assemblies.”  The Code addresses a wide range of legislative requirements, including: •             Construction Products Regulations in both the EU and UK. •             Building Regulations throughout the UK and Ireland, including the Building Regulations 2010 (England & Wales), Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, and Building Regulations 1997-2021 (Ireland). •             Workplace Fire Safety Legislation across the UK and Ireland, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. •             Equality Legislation applicable in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland.  Additionally, the Code considers third-party certification schemes and declarations of conformity with relevant standards, ensuring that the guidance provided is both comprehensive and up to date.  The Code applies to building hardware used on timber fire doors with up to two hours of fire resistance and steel fire doors with up to four hours of fire resistance.  The hardware items covered are categorised into essential items necessary for the successful operation of the doors (such as pivots and hinges, door closing devices, latch or locks, intumescent and smoke seals, and panic bolts), and optional (non-essential) items that could potentially cause door failure if not properly selected or installed.   As a part of this revision there are several new sections relating to electric locking and access control, which are of increasing importance in the world of building hardware. Issue 5 of the Code replaces the previous issue 4, as well as all previous codes of practice published by both the Association of Building Hardware Manufacturers (now DHF) and the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers, all of which have been withdrawn to ensure that professionals are working with the most current and relevant information.  DHF general manager Michael Skelding said: “This revision is the result of more than two years work by the teams at the DHF and GAI in conjunction with technical specialists at the leading companies in our industry.  “The result should be seen as an essential reference document for anyone involved in the selection, installation and testing of building hardware and furniture for fire and escape doors.”  Code of Practice: Hardware for Fire and Escape Doors edition 5 can be downloaded for free at www.firecode.org.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Why Every Construction Site Needs Asset Tracking Software

Why Every Construction Site Needs Asset Tracking Software

In construction work, effectively managing resources can make all the difference between achieving goals and facing obstacles ahead. Software for tracking assets offers an answer to this issue by offering a method for teams to monitor equipment, materials, and staff comprehensively. Grasping the advantages and features of software has the potential to transform operations by guaranteeing operations and increased productivity at each project location.  Enhancing Efficiency Construction asset tracking software greatly boosts efficiency in operations by providing information on the whereabouts and usage of equipment to enable teams to make decisions based on accurate data updates. This instant accessibility helps minimize downtime since employees spend time looking for tools and supplies. Through tracking of assets, supervisors on site can better allocate resources, guaranteeing that every team member has the equipment at the right time.  Minimizing Loss and Theft Construction sites are known to be at risk of equipment theft and loss due to their nature and multiple access points for potential miscreants to take advantage of the situation. Using asset tracking software acts as a necessary measure by making any unauthorized movements easily noticeable and traceable within the site premises. By enabling alerts and notifications through this technology platform, work crews can promptly react to any suspicious activities that may occur in time. Streamlining Maintenance Maintenance tasks, like scheduling routine checks and using asset tracking software to remind teams about upcoming maintenance needs, are important to keep equipment in shape over time. This proactive approach not only helps extend the lifespan of equipment but also avoids unexpected breakdown situations that can cause costly delays.  Facilitating Informed Decision-Making In the world of construction projects, it is important to make informed choices about asset management since it offers detailed information on how equipment is used and its performance and availability status. By utilizing data-driven methods, site supervisors can examine patterns, enhance resource distribution, and introduce money-saving tactics. With thorough insights, teams can plan ahead for requirements and keep projects running seamlessly without delays.  Boosting Accountability Accountability is crucial on construction sites for maintaining high safety and efficiency levels. Asset tracking software boosts accountability by keeping records of equipment usage and personnel assignments. This transparency encourages a sense of responsibility among team members as they become more conscientious about their duties and equipment handling.  Improving Communication Effective communication is the backbone of any successful construction project. Asset tracking software facilitates seamless communication by integrating project management tools, allowing teams to share updates and insights effortlessly. This streamlined communication ensures everyone remains on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing collaboration. Optimizing Resource Allocation Efficiently managing resources within budget limits is crucial for planning and executing projects. Asset tracking software plays a role in this process by offering a view of the resources at hand. Being aware of the location of equipment allows site supervisors to allocate resources smartly to prevent overuse or waste. This rounded strategy enhances resource utilization efficiency. Helps in achieving project objectives while staying within budget constraints.  Adapting to Technological Advancements As technology progresses in the construction industry, relevant changes must be implemented on construction sites to stay competitive. Asset tracking software works hand in hand with breakthroughs like IoT devices and GPS systems to establish a well-connected and efficient working setting. By welcoming these innovations, construction sites can use technology to simplify tasks, enhance safety measures, and boost project outcomes. Ensuring Compliance Compliance with regulations is crucial in construction projects. It helps ensure adherence to industry standards and laws, prevent issues, and uphold a reputation. Asset tracking software is used for accurate record-keeping during audits and inspections.  Conclusion Implementing asset tracking software in construction sites offers benefits such as boosting efficiency and ensuring compliance with regulations commonly encountered in the construction industry. By integrating asset-tracking solutions into their operations, teams can safeguard resources and streamline processes to achieve successful project outcomes. As the construction sector continues to evolve, embracing these tools becomes essential for companies looking to excel in this environment. 

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The Best Tools for Eye Protection and First Aid in Construction

The Best Tools for Eye Protection and First Aid in Construction

There’s no doubt that construction sites are among the most hazardous to work in. According to the Health and Safety Executive, its workplaces see the second-highest number of self-reported injuries across the country.   This mainly has to do with the materials construction workers use, the manual labour, and the environments they operate in. Simply working on building sites means slipping and falling or being hit by objects dropped from a great heights can cause serious bodily injuries. Although, it’s also vital for construction workers to remember to take care of their eyes as well.   Whether they’re welding, doing outdoor construction work, or working with chemicals, those working in this industry must prioritise shielding their eyes from possible harm. This can help to ensure worker safety, job satisfaction, and even the final quality of the project they’re working on. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the following tools are always present on construction sites to provide the best means for eye protection and first-aid treatment:  Protective equipment  Safety goggles Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) is a requirement for every construction site due to the fact that they can effectively prevent serious injuries when working with dangerous or heavy machinery, operating in the same area as machine drivers and operators, and even using equipment that can potentially cause hearing impairments. Aside from gloves, high-visibility clothing, and hearing protection devices, however, a construction worker’s PPE essentials should also include safety goggles.  Though safety eyewear can look and feel like regular eyeglasses, goggles are more ideal for construction work because they boast frames that completely seal off the eye area and provide protection from more angles. The 2890 model from 3M, for example, is made of durable polycarbonate and comes with anti-fog and anti-scratch lens coatings. That means they can effectively block flying wood chips, welding sparks, and other tools or objects while keeping a worker’s field of vision clear so they can safely see what they’re doing.  UV-blocking sunglasses The initial phases of any construction project often take place outdoors. This exposes workers to the sun and puts them at risk of overexposure to its UV rays. These rays are most commonly known for accelerating age-related diseases like cataracts, and their short-term impacts can significantly impact construction site eye safety. Sunlight bouncing off reflective materials like glass and metal can overwhelm the eyes with glare. This can lead to workers not being able to see what they’re doing at key moments, leading to accidents. In the worst-case scenario, excess glare can cause temporary blindness through a condition known as photokeratitis.  These potential incidents make it crucial to supply workers with UV-blocking sunglasses when working outdoors. Models with larger frames, like the Grayson from Glasses Direct, will generally be more effective because they’ll shield more of the eye area. These sunglasses often come with an option to add prescriptions to their lenses, which can be a more convenient means of protection for construction workers who wear corrective glasses. However, the one feature that shouldn’t be overlooked is polarisation. Polarised sunglasses use filters that can eliminate glare and make it safer to work outdoors.  First aid  Eye wash  Construction workers also work with a number of chemicals, including those that help cure concrete, add waterproofing to buildings, and improve grout quality. Unfortunately, many of these compounds aren’t meant to touch the eyes and skin—meaning that any splashes can cause serious irritation and injury. Though safety eyewear like goggles and sunglasses can shield against those splashes, workers need a tool that will prevent further damage when splashes manage to reach their eyes.  That’s where eye wash stations comes in. Construction sites must have eye wash stations where workers can flush their eyes of the offending chemicals. An eye wash is usually comprised of purified water mixed with saline solution or boric acid, which helps neutralise these chemicals and fight off potential infections. To properly clean their eyes, workers must keep them open while flushing them with the wash for a full 10 to 15 minutes, then seek medical attention. Tap water can be used in emergencies, but is generally not recommended due to the contaminants it may contain.  Eye shields  Similarly, eye injuries like corneal abrasions may still happen despite the use of protective eyewear. As exemplified by a close call experienced by tradesman Brad Morrison, objects and debris can potentially crack safety lenses and make it to the eye if they’re flying at extremely fast speeds. In Morrison’s case, his glasses were able to stop a wood chip from doing that just in time—but in the cases where a worker’s eyewear can’t, it’ll help to have eye shields on hand.  These tools are essentially small, cup-like objects strapped over the eye. They’re commonly used to protect the eyes after cataract surgery. In construction, however, eye shields are often used to ‘vault’ or contain any traumatic eye injuries before they can be treated by a medical professional. The best shields are usually made of shatter-proof polycarbonate and use designs with small holes for ventilation. 

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Custom vs. standard temperature solutions: which is right for your application?

Custom vs. standard temperature solutions: which is right for your application?

Ever feel overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the right temperature measurement solution? Trust us, you’re not alone. With so many options out there, picking between a standard product off the shelf or a custom-made solution can feel like a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’re here to break it down and make your decision a whole lot easier. Why standard solutions are a great fit (sometimes) First off, let’s talk about standard temperature solutions. These are your go-to, tried-and-tested products that work well for a wide range of applications. If you need a reliable thermocouple or temperature sensor to get the job done quickly and efficiently, standard options can be your best bet. They’re cost-effective, readily available, and you know exactly what you’re getting. For example, in industries like HVAC or food processing, where the temperature ranges are pretty predictable, a standard solution might be more than enough. But here’s the thing: temperature measurement isn’t always that straightforward. That’s where things get a little more exciting and complex. When custom is the way to go Sometimes, you’re dealing with environments so extreme that even the toughest off-the-shelf product would tap out. Picture measuring temperatures in a blast furnace or monitoring heat in advanced aerospace testing. In these cases, you need a solution that’s built specifically for your challenges, and that’s where custom options come in. Custom temperature solutions are like the bespoke suits of the measurement world. Everything, from the materials used to the design of the sensor, is tailored to fit your exact needs. And sure, it might take a bit more time and investment, but when the stakes are high, it’s totally worth it. Let’s talk high temperature thermocouples A perfect example of when customization is crucial? High temperature thermocouples. These aren’t your average, everyday sensors. We’re talking about devices that can handle insane temperatures, sometimes over 2,000°C, without losing accuracy. In industrial applications like glass manufacturing, molten metal processing, or even the aerospace sector, high temperature thermocouples are an absolute must. Standard thermocouples would melt or degrade in these environments, but a custom-designed high temperature thermocouple made from materials like platinum-rhodium or tungsten-rhenium can withstand the heat. These thermocouples can be designed to maintain their integrity even in the most brutal conditions, ensuring you get the reliable data you need. Making the right choice So, how do you decide between standard and custom? It all boils down to the specifics of your application. If your process operates within typical temperature ranges and conditions, a standard sensor could save you time and money. But if your environment is pushing the limits with extreme heat, rapid temperature changes, or unique safety requirements, a custom solution is your best friend.

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Google Ads for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide to Paid Advertising Success

Google Ads for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide to Paid Advertising Success

In today’s digital world, potential clients often turn to online searches when seeking legal representation. To ensure your law firm stands out from the competition, a strong online presence is essential. While organic search engine optimization (SEO) is important for long-term visibility, Google Ads for lawyers provides a powerful way to reach potential clients immediately when they are actively searching for legal help. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key elements of creating and managing successful Google Ads campaigns, helping you attract more clients and grow your practice. Understanding the Google Ads Landscape Google Ads operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, where you bid on relevant keywords to have your ads appear at the top of search results pages. When a user searches for a term related to your bid keywords, your ad may be displayed alongside organic search results. You only pay when someone clicks on your ad, making it a cost-effective way to drive targeted traffic to your website. Google Ads offers a variety of ad formats and targeting options, allowing you to tailor your campaigns to specific audiences and goals. With careful planning and execution, Google Ads can be a highly effective tool for generating leads and acquiring new clients. Keyword Research: The Foundation of Effective Google Ads Keywords are the words and phrases people use when searching for information online. Thorough keyword research is crucial for identifying the terms your potential clients are using when looking for legal services. This research forms the foundation of your Google Ads campaigns. Start by brainstorming a list of relevant keywords related to your practice areas and the types of cases you handle. For example, a personal injury lawyer might consider keywords like “car accident lawyer”, “slip and fall attorney”, or “personal injury claim”. Use keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and SEMrush to expand your list, analyze search volume, and assess competition. Don’t overlook long-tail keywords, which are longer, more specific phrases that often have lower competition and can be highly effective in targeting niche audiences. For instance, instead of just “divorce lawyer”, consider long-tail keywords like “divorce lawyer specializing in child custody” or “high-net-worth divorce attorney”. Crafting Compelling Ad Copy Your ad copy is the first impression potential clients will have of your firm. It needs to be clear, concise, and persuasive to entice users to click on your ad and visit your website. To achieve this, capture attention with headlines that highlight your expertise and address the needs of your target audience. Clearly communicate what sets your firm apart from the competition. Do you offer free consultations? Do you have a proven track record of success? Encourage users to take the next step with a clear and compelling call to action, such as “Call Now for a Free Consultation” or “Get Your Case Reviewed Today”. Remember to tailor your ad copy to the specific keywords you are targeting and the search intent of your audience. Landing Page Optimization: Guiding Users Toward Conversion When a user clicks on your ad, they should be directed to a dedicated landing page that is relevant to their search query and designed to convert them into a lead. To create effective landing pages, ensure the headline and messaging on your landing page match the ad copy to provide a consistent user experience. Provide valuable information that addresses the user’s needs and answers their questions. Include a prominent call to action, such as a contact form or phone number. Build credibility by incorporating testimonials, case studies, and attorney bios. Targeting Options: Reaching the Right Audience Google Ads provides a range of targeting options to help you reach the most qualified leads. If you primarily serve clients in a specific geographic area, use location targeting to focus your ads on people in that region. You can also target your ads based on demographics like age, gender, and income level, which can be particularly useful if you specialize in certain types of legal cases. Consider whether you want to target users on desktop computers, mobile devices, or both, and tailor your bids and ad copy accordingly. Campaign Structure and Organization A well-structured Google Ads campaign can significantly improve your results. Organize your campaigns into ad groups based on relevant keywords and themes. This allows for more targeted ads and landing pages. Create multiple ad variations within each ad group to test different headlines, descriptions, and calls to action. This helps you identify the most effective ad copy. Budgeting and Bidding Strategies Effective budget management is essential for Google Ads success. Determine how much you are willing to spend on your campaigns, considering your overall marketing budget and lead generation goals. Google Ads offers various bidding strategies, such as manual bidding and automated bidding. Choose a strategy that aligns with your goals and budget. Regularly monitor your campaign performance and adjust your bids and budget as needed to optimize your results. Tracking and Measuring Results Tracking your Google Ads campaign performance is crucial to understand what’s working and what needs improvement. Monitor key metrics such as click-through rate (CTR), conversion rate, cost per conversion, and return on investment (ROI). Set up conversion tracking to measure how many leads are generated from your campaigns, helping you assess the effectiveness of your ads and landing pages. Ethical Considerations in Lawyer Advertising While Google Ads can be a powerful tool for attracting clients, it’s important to adhere to ethical advertising practices. Avoid making misleading claims or guarantees in your ad copy. Be transparent about your fees and services. Respect client confidentiality and avoid using sensitive information in your ads. Ensure your ads comply with all relevant advertising regulations and guidelines. Integrating Google Ads with Other Marketing Efforts Google Ads should be part of a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes other tactics like SEO, content marketing, and social media. Google Ads and SEO can work together to maximize your online visibility. Use Google Ads to target high-value keywords and complement your organic search efforts. Create

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