In a world where safety, compliance and reliability are non-negotiable, one manufacturer is proving that quality fire protection and expert craftsmanship can go hand-in-hand. Based in Barton, Preston, Better Fire Doors has firmly established itself as the North’s leading provider of timber fire doors and fire-rated screens — trusted across
Spitfire Homes is launching a new community-focused initiative in Radcliffe on Trent to help support local small businesses, at a time when 37 shops are pulling down their shutters for the final time every day in the UK. Following the success of the Gold Card at Spitfire’s Malabar development in
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) has long been a cornerstone of non-destructive testing (NDT) — a technique critical toensure the integrity of structures, materials, and components without damaging them. In aerospace and oil pipelines, manufacturingplants and bridges, UT is a critical method that helps to identify internal flaws like cracks, voids, and
Shopping online has become second nature for most of us. Whether we’re ordering essentials or indulging in some retail therapy, e-commerce platforms are now the go-to. But behind the convenience and speed lies a deeper layer that many consumers often overlook—security. We entrust these platforms with our personal and financial
Casinos have long been more than just venues for gambling; they are architectural marvels that showcase innovation, luxury, and cultural significance. From the opulent designs of 19th-century Europe to the cutting-edge structures of modern Asia and the United States, these establishments reflect the evolution of architectural styles and technological advancements.
In a world where safety, compliance and reliability are non-negotiable, one manufacturer is proving that quality fire protection and expert craftsmanship can go hand-in-hand. Based in Barton, Preston, Better Fire Doors has firmly established itself as the North’s leading provider of timber fire doors and fire-rated screens — trusted across residential, education and healthcare sectors. With a purpose-built manufacturing facility and accreditation under the BWF Certifire scheme, Better Fire Doors offers fully certified FD30, FD60 and FD120 doors. These products not only meet stringent UK fire safety regulations but are also tailored to deliver high performance, style and long-term durability. The company’s product range includes bespoke and pre-hung door sets, flush and glazed options, as well as factory-fitted ironmongery, enabling faster installation and reducing time spent on site. They also offer fully glazed fire screens, tested to provide integrity and insulation for up to 60 minutes — a perfect fit for modern buildings where aesthetics must balance strict compliance. Beyond fire protection, Better Fire Doors delivers solutions for high-demand environments. In education, doors are designed to withstand constant use while meeting severe-duty fire and acoustic performance standards. In healthcare, the firm provides hygienic, robust doors for hospitals, clinics and care homes — always combining ease of access with safety and a therapeutic design touch. What truly sets Better Fire Doors apart is their comprehensive in-house joinery expertise. From handcrafted staircases and traditional windows to bespoke kitchens and outdoor structures, their attention to detail and use of both traditional skills and CAD planning ensures each project is delivered to exacting standards. Their efforts haven’t gone unnoticed — the firm was recently named Best Fire Door Manufacturer 2023 – Northern England, a reflection of their commitment to British manufacturing and industry-leading service. In an industry where fire safety saves lives, Better Fire Doors continues to push boundaries — offering better quality, better design, and ultimately, better protection. Contact Better Fire Doors:📞 07731 454 121🌐 www.betterfiredoors.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Spitfire Homes is launching a new community-focused initiative in Radcliffe on Trent to help support local small businesses, at a time when 37 shops are pulling down their shutters for the final time every day in the UK. Following the success of the Gold Card at Spitfire’s Malabar development in Daventry, the popular scheme is being extended to the homebuilder’s latest collection named Sherbourne, situated on Grantham Road in Radcliffe on Trent. Completely free to join, the unique initiative offers a mutually beneficial opportunity where new Spitfire homeowners are introduced to trusted local businesses, while participating establishments enjoy increased exposure and footfall. According to research by PwC, there were more than 13,500 UK store closures across all retail sectors in 2024 – on average 37 stores closing every day – with the cost-of-living crisis and out-of-town retail parks presenting high streets with unprecedented challenges. Mark Swaddle, Head of Marketing at Spitfire Homes said: “As a homebuilder with a passion for supporting the local area, the Gold Card scheme reflects our commitment to creating collections which integrate with the existing community and have a positive impact on the local economy. “Sherbourne has attracted a variety of purchasers, including those relocating to Radcliffe on Trent, and the launch of this scheme presents an exciting opportunity to highlight local businesses to new residents of the village, showcasing the variety of local businesses within the village. “The success of the scheme at our collection in Daventry makes it even more exciting to extend the campaign to Radcliffe on Trent. We are proud to be partnering with small businesses and we look forward to supporting the local economy at the same time. If you are interested in becoming a Gold Card partner, we would love to hear from you.” Forming a brand new community, Sherbourne showcases 280 new design-led homes ranging from one- to five-bedrooms. As the first homeowners get ready to collect their keys this summer, they can unlock exclusive discounts through their Gold Card which will be valid for twelve months after moving in. With history stretching back over a century, one of the first businesses to sign up to the Gold Card scheme is Radcliffe on Trent Golf Club. One of the premier golf courses in Nottinghamshire, the club is not only known for its scenic 18-hole parkland course but also for its commitment to bringing people together – whether through golf, social events, or supporting local causes. Commenting on the club’s involvement, General Manager, Rob Smith, added: “We’re proud to be part of this exciting new initiative in collaboration with Spitfire Homes, which not only supports the village’s economy but also extends a warm welcome to the new homeowners that are soon to be living at Sherbourne. As a longstanding local business, Radcliffe on Trent Golf Club has strong community roots so this forward-thinking scheme aligns perfectly with our values, whilst introducing our facilities to a selection of new residents. We look forward to working with Spitfire and welcoming new members to our club.” Spitfire Homes would like to hear from any local businesses in Radcliffe on Trent, and the surrounding area, who are interested in joining the Gold Card scheme. Please email goldcard@spitfirehomes.co.uk for further information. To find out how it is already working in Daventry, please visit https://spitfirehomes.co.uk/spitfire-gold-card/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) has long been a cornerstone of non-destructive testing (NDT) — a technique critical toensure the integrity of structures, materials, and components without damaging them. In aerospace and oil pipelines, manufacturingplants and bridges, UT is a critical method that helps to identify internal flaws like cracks, voids, and corrosion. Historically, UT has beendependent predominantly on the ability and experience of human operators to conduct the test itself as well as to read the results. But with the fast-emerging era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), this field is beginning to change fundamentally. The changes are not superficial — they impact all aspects of ultrasonic testing, from data acquisition and signal processing to flaw detection, characterization, and even predictive maintenance. In an industry where accuracy, safety, and efficiency are paramount, AI is taking ultrasonic testing to thenext level. Smarter Data Acquisition One of the first aspects to be impacted by this innovation is the data acquisition process itself. In traditional UT, operators must intentionally move probes along surfaces and in real time interpret signal responses. Theprocess is greatly dependent on human judgment, and inconsistencies can occur due to fatigue, skill level, or environmental conditions. Now, AI is advancing data collection to new levels with computer-scanning systems. Robotic spiders, drones, and ultrasonic sensors on hand-held devi can gather larger volumes of data, faster and more accurately than single human users. More important, machine-learning software can alter scanning patterns dynamically — adjusting probe angles, scanning rates, and frequencies based on material and geometry properties. Thatlevel of adaptive smarts was unimaginable only a few years ago. Advanced Signal Processing and Noise Reduction There is another major advance in signal processing. Raw ultrasonic data may be noisy. Noise can be introduced by sources like surface roughness, material anisotropy, and probe misalignment and may overlayor distort critical flaw indications. Signal processing algorithms based on artificial intelligence are now used to automatically eliminate this noise. Deep learning algorithms, having been trained on thousands of actual data sets, can recognize useful signals and disregard useless artifacts with high precision. This allows technicians to detect defects that would have gone unnoticed using traditional methods — or to do so more quickly and with more confidence. Automated Defect Detection and Classification Perhaps the most transformative change is happening at the interpretation stage. Traditionally, interpreting UT data required an experienced technician to visually analyze A-scans, B-scans, or C-scans and make a judgment call about whether an anomaly was present, what it might be, and how severe it was. Now. AI technologies can aid — or even propel — this important decision-making process. Pattern recognition software can automatically highlight suspicious areas, classify defects (e.g.,cracks, voids, or inclusions), and even offer insights into their size and orientation. Some platforms go further by correlating ultrasonic signatures with material properties to predict the development of a detected flaw over time. This automated defect recognition (ADR) feature not only speeds up the inspection process but also reduces human error, leading to more reproducible and consistent results independent of operators or teams. Predictive Maintenance and Lifespan Estimation Aside from simply indicating current existing flaws, AI-poweredUT is revealing the potential of predictive maintenance strategies. By decoding historical ultrasonic data in tandem with environmental and operational data (e.g., load cycles, temperature variations, or vibration patterns), machine learning algorithms can foretell when and where failures will occur. Instead of reacting to faults after they have happened, organizations are now able to schedule maintenance activities inadvance — replacing or overhauling components before they fail. This is time-saving, lessexpensive to repair, and contributes to overall security. In use in industries like aviation or nuclear energy, where failure equals catastrophe, predictive informationcan be a game-changer. Challenges and Considerations Although the developments are remarkable, there are technical challenges in integrating AI into ultrasonic inspection. High-quality, labeled datasets are needed by the models to become effective, and in certain cases, these datasets don’t exist, they’re proprietary, or expensive to produce. In addition, industries with highregulatory requirements — e.g., aerospace or nuclear energy — will be hesitant to employ AI-basedtechniques until standardization and validation procedures are established. And then there is the question of human oversight. While AI can substantially enhance inspections, most experts feel it needs tobe employed as a force multiplier to assist, rather than replace, trained human inspectors. Ethical issues, liability questions, and the need for seasoned judgment will keep human expertise squarely in the loop in the near future. The Road Ahead In the years ahead, AI application to ultrasonic testing is likely to become even more entrenched. Edge computing breakthroughs will allow for more sophisticated AI processing on the premises, reducing the need for cloud connectivity. Real-time analysis could become common practice, giving instant feedback to inspectors during inspection work. Concurrently, advancements in sensor technology — such as phased array UT supported by AI — will allow even faster, more thorough, and more precise inspections. Coordination between AI experts, UT experts, and industry regulators will be crucial to making these technologies safe, reliable, and standardized across industries. One thing is for sure: the era of AI isn’t just changing ultrasonic testing — it’s redefining the rules of what can be done. By pairinghuman insight with machine intelligence, ultrasonic testing is being revolutionized from anacquired skill into a powerful science, with enhanced outcomes for safety, productivity, and the industries that depend on it.
Shopping online has become second nature for most of us. Whether we’re ordering essentials or indulging in some retail therapy, e-commerce platforms are now the go-to. But behind the convenience and speed lies a deeper layer that many consumers often overlook—security. We entrust these platforms with our personal and financial details every time we make a purchase, so it’s only right to ask: How safe is the digital checkout counter? That’s where enterprise risk management plays a crucial role. While the term might sound like something reserved for corporate boardrooms, it’s actually at the heart of how e-commerce companies protect both themselves and their customers from growing cyber threats. By identifying potential risks—like data breaches, phishing attacks, and payment fraud—retailers can take proactive steps to keep their systems and users secure. And for consumers, this translates to trust, smoother transactions, and peace of mind. Why Cyber Defense Matters in E-Commerce It’s a world where information is more prized than gold, and cyber attackers never rest on their laurels. Online shopping sites are particularly vulnerable as they contain a treasure trove of customer information. But let’s not forget the headlines: it’s not just protecting credit card numbers. One cyberattack can take down a whole online store, resulting in lost sales, ruined reputation, and legal issues. From an individual consumer’s perspective, nothing can spoil the shopping experience quicker than the threat of identity theft. If a site is dubious or invokes a browser warning, most consumers click away immediately without hesitation. That’s why cybersecurity is not only an IT problem—it’s a user experience problem. It has a direct impact on how individuals feel about using a platform. When a site clearly invests in security features, such as multi-factor authentication or secure checkout procedures, it is sending a message: “We care about your safety.” That type of confidence wins customer loyalty in the long run. How Enterprise Risk Management Supports Safer Shopping Let’s dissect. Enterprise risk management (ERM) refers to a strategic plan for discovering, measuring, and managing risks likely to affect the goals of a company. In the context of e-commerce, ERM translates into the creation of a security-oriented culture that permeates all departments, from technology departments to customer care. Instead of responding to threats in real-time, e-commerce businesses that utilize ERM protocols anticipate them ahead of time. This involves periodic vulnerability scans, phishing scam training for employees, and sound incident response plans. With these systems in place, internet stores can minimize downtime, avoid large breaches, and recover more quickly if something does happen. For shoppers, this means real-world benefits to the shopping experience. More rapid page loads, less bug-related downtime, and reliable uptime are frequently a secondary effect of robust backend security. Even the checkout process becomes easier when platforms can securely authenticate users and mark suspicious transactions in real-time. The Shift in Consumer Expectations Source: Unsplash Consumers today are better informed than ever before. We read reviews, look for secure site markers, and even follow sites on social media to see what people have to say about them. This increasing awareness is causing e-commerce companies to up their game—not just about products and prices, but about security as well. More than 70% of consumers claim they would no longer shop at a store where there was a data breach, a recent survey found. That’s a huge blow no business wants to incur. Consumers are no longer passive consumers; they want transparency and expect brands to actively defend their data. This implies that features such as visible security badges, transparent privacy policies, and simple opt-in controls are no longer “nice-to-haves”—they’re essentials. The businesses that prioritize these are differentiated in a competitive marketplace. Building Trust with Every Click Source: Unsplash Trust is the currency of e-commerce. You can have the greatest products and most blingy design, but if customers don’t feel secure, they won’t linger—or worse, they won’t return. And once trust is lost, it’s extremely hard to regain. So how do companies cultivate that trust? Start with transparency. Inform users why their information is being used. Provide simple controls for handling privacy settings. Flag suspicious account behavior with a warning. These are little touches but they can travel far to assure shoppers they feel safe. Also, embracing this kind of frameworks isn’t simply damage control—it’s ongoing improvement. It allows businesses to keep ahead of emerging threats, adhere to international regulations, and retain a competitive advantage in an age where safety is a selling factor. What Consumers Can Do Although most of the onus for cybersecurity falls on businesses, consumers are not helpless when it comes to keeping their personal data safe. One of the simplest yet most effective steps is to stick to trusted platforms—if a website feels suspicious or looks poorly maintained, it’s best to steer clear. Always check for HTTPS in the URL, as indicated by a padlock icon, which signals a secure connection. Two-factor authentication adds an additional layer of security, particularly for accounts that are attached to payment methods. It’s also important to use strong, unique passwords and avoid reusing them on multiple sites. Lastly, keeping track of your accounts, such as bank statements and transaction records, on a regular basis will allow you to detect any unauthorized use early on. By taking these proactive measures, not only is your own information protected but also an overall more secure and reliable e-commerce environment is created for all. The Future of Safe Shopping The online marketplace is not letting up. With new technologies such as AI-based personalization and cryptocurrency payments picking up steam, so too do the challenges of keeping online shoppers safe. But one thing is certain: safety will always be a top priority. Visionary e-commerce businesses recognize that cybersecurity is not just a technical to-do list—it’s an integral part of developing the user experience. By adopting enterprise risk management and progressively improving their defenses, these businesses can guarantee that there’s a shopping experience that is convenient as well as secure. As customers, we have a
Casinos have long been more than just venues for gambling; they are architectural marvels that showcase innovation, luxury, and cultural significance. From the opulent designs of 19th-century Europe to the cutting-edge structures of modern Asia and the United States, these establishments reflect the evolution of architectural styles and technological advancements. In this article, we explore some of the most intricate casinos ever constructed, delving into their unique designs, construction processes, and the stories behind their grandeur. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Marina Bay Sands stands as a testament to modern engineering and architectural prowess. Designed by Moshe Safdie, this iconic structure comprises three 55-storey towers connected by a sky terrace known as the SkyPark, which spans the length of a Boeing 747 and offers panoramic views of Singapore. The construction required precise engineering to balance the cantilevered SkyPark atop the towers, a feat achieved through advanced construction techniques and materials. However, back home, since not everyone has the privilege of being able to see such fancy establishments, many local players now prefer the convenience and appeal of the fastest withdrawal casinos. These platforms have become benchmarks in the online gaming world. They are increasingly popular among local players for their ability to process payouts in minutes, offer real-time customer support, and reduce waiting times. In a fast-paced digital environment, efficiency is just as important as elegance—and both are key to long-term appeal. The Venetian Macao, Macau However, if you are lucky enough to be able to travel, the Venetian Macao brings the charm of Venice to Asia, replicating the Italian city’s canals, architecture, and ambience. Covering over 10.5 million square feet, it is one of the most luxurious casinos around and one of the largest buildings in the world by floor area. The resort features a 15,000-seat arena, a convention centre, and a vast casino with more than 3,400 slot machines and 800 gaming tables. Architecturally, The Venetian Macao showcases intricate detailing, with frescoed ceilings, ornate columns, and replicas of Venetian landmarks. The construction involved meticulous craftsmanship to recreate the essence of Venice, including indoor canals complete with gondolas and singing gondoliers. This fusion of cultural homage and modern luxury makes it a standout in casino architecture. Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco The Casino de Monte-Carlo epitomises Belle Époque elegance and has been a symbol of luxury since its opening in 1863. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the Paris Opera House, the casino features ornate decorations, marble atriums, and chandeliers that exude opulence. Its façade and interiors reflect the grandeur of 19th-century European architecture. Beyond its architectural beauty, the casino has cultural significance, having appeared in numerous films and literature. Its construction marked a turning point for Monaco’s economy, transforming it into a premier destination for the elite. The Casino de Monte-Carlo remains a testament to timeless design and the allure of high society. Luxor Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas The Luxor Hotel and Casino brings ancient Egypt to the Las Vegas Strip with its distinctive pyramid shape and thematic design. Standing at 350 feet, it was the tallest building on the Strip at the time of its completion in 1993. The pyramid structure, topped with a powerful beam of light, required innovative engineering to achieve its unique form. Inside, the hotel continues the Egyptian theme with replicas of artefacts, hieroglyphics, and statues. The casino floor and accommodations are situated along the pyramid’s sloped sides, creating a unique spatial experience. The Luxor’s bold design showcases how thematic architecture can create immersive environments that captivate visitors. Encore Boston Harbor, Massachusetts Encore Boston Harbor represents a blend of luxury and environmental sustainability. Completed in 2019, the $2.6 billion resort features a 27-story bronze-toned glass tower housing over 600 rooms, a casino, retail spaces, and dining establishments. The design emphasises natural light and incorporates high-end finishes to create an atmosphere of refined elegance. A notable aspect of Encore Boston Harbor is its commitment to environmental standards, achieving LEED Platinum certification. The construction included the remediation of a contaminated industrial site, transforming it into a vibrant waterfront destination. This project demonstrates how modern casino developments can integrate luxury with ecological responsibility. Conclusion The architectural feats achieved in these casinos reflect a fusion of artistry, engineering, and cultural storytelling. Each establishment offers more than gaming; they provide immersive experiences that transport visitors to different eras and locales. As the casino industry continues to evolve, these structures stand as monuments to human creativity and the pursuit of excellence in design and construction.
