uvex will be demonstrating how to ensure an optimal PPE fit at The Health & Safety Event (30 April-2 May 2024, NEC Birmingham) to promote the theme of WEARability. With growing awareness around the importance of #PPEthatfits, uvex (stand 4/F20) will show visitors how to identify the specifications they need
Maintaining a property in the vibrant city of London requires attention to detail and access to reliable maintenance services. In the heart of this bustling metropolis, a company stands out for its dedication to excellence in property maintenance, offering a comprehensive suite of services including gas engineering work, plumbing, electrical
Shadow Industrial, the UK’s leading shortwave infrared heating specialist, recently supported the refit of a 3,500m2 warehouse in Bishop Stortford, Hertfordshire. Occupied and operated by Shadow Industrial’s sister company, Handy Dryers, the space had originally been fitted with an Ambi Rad system. Seeing the massive utility bills and CO2 emissions being produced, the
Pure Vista Ltd have their next CPD session certified and ready to go Next online open session is on Friday the 26th April at 1pm. Pure Vista’s newest CPD session is an Introduction to Martyn’s Law and the relevance of anti-terror glass balustrades. In this informative session, you will learn
A joint venture (JV) between Chancerygate and Northwood Urban Logistics has achieved practical completion on its 130,483 sq ft Bridgewater Point development at Trafford Park in Manchester. The last-mile urban logistics scheme comprises 16 high specification Grade A leasehold units, ranging in size from 5,114 sq ft to 13,571 sq
The National Science and Media Museum has announced that it anticipates a 2025 reopening, aligning with the Bradford district’s UK City of Culture celebrations. The museum temporarily closed in June last year to undergo a once-in-a-generation transformation with huge changes through a £6 million capital project called ‘Sound and Vision’,
Sika’s Roofing Division is proud to announce its selection as finalists in two categories of the NFRC UK Roofing Awards 2024. The company has been recognised for its impressive contributions in the technology fields of Bituminous Hot Applied Liquid Waterproofing and Cold Applied Liquid Waterproofing. Judges were impressed by two
By Trevor Steven, mental health ambassador, Causeway Technologies Construction sites are bustling hubs of activity, but the focus is often geared towards the finished product and the safety and well-being of the building’s occupants. Rarely do we take a moment to consider the people who bring these structures to life:
Industry-leading decorative panel and sheet experts Panelco has announced a strategic brand partnership with specialist technical and decorative panel designer and manufacturer Polyrey to expand the range of high-pressure laminate (HPL) and compact laminate products it can offer its customers. As a prominent stockist and manufacturer of innovative products, ranges
South Staffordshire Plc’s compliance division is delighted to welcome Nicki Hay as its new sales director. Nicki will join the senior management team overseeing all aspects of sales for the two compliance businesses, Integrated Water Services (IWS) Water Hygiene and Omega Red Group. Nicki’s background of over 20 years in
uvex will be demonstrating how to ensure an optimal PPE fit at The Health & Safety Event (30 April-2 May 2024, NEC Birmingham) to promote the theme of WEARability. With growing awareness around the importance of #PPEthatfits, uvex (stand 4/F20) will show visitors how to identify the specifications they need when selecting products such as footwear, gloves, hearing protection and eyewear. Finding PPE that fits properly is essential to help avoid accidents, reduce discomfort, increase productivity and give wearers confidence. It must be selected based on factors including the individual’s size, shape and gender as well as compatibility with other items and workplace requirements. Achieving true WEARability requires a balance of proper fit and three other factors. The PPE must deliver all-day comfort and work with the body, which means it should be free of pressure points, lightweight and breathable. It should not cause any secondary issues or aggravate any underlying conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Product performance is also key, with design, quality of materials, and technologies all influencing the user experience. Finally, stylish design is important to help increase compliance. uvex’s Marketing Manager Clair Weston comments: “The #PPEthatfits campaign is attracting more and more attention – and for very good reason. We know that the best PPE is the one that gets worn throughout the day. One size does not fit all when it comes to personal protective equipment and having the right products is vital to avoid putting workers at risk.” Comfort across categories Visitors to the uvex stand will be able to gain expert insights into how to find PPE that fits across different product categories. Properly fitting safety footwear can make a significant difference to comfort, concentration levels and fatigue. uvex offers insoles that allow wearers to achieve a customised wearing experience. In addition, its range includes styles produced using a ladies’ last to mimic the contours of a female foot. uvex personnel will be conducting footwear fit clinics on their stand so that visitors can find their perfect pair of safety footwear. uvex also provides education allowing wearers to strike the perfect balance between reliable protection, functionality, grip, comfortable and correct sizing. The company will be showcasing its latest uvex phynomic cut glove range manufactured in Germany using 3D hand ‘formas’ to perfectly mimic the contours of the hand. uvex Bamboo TwinFlex safety gloves, meanwhile, have been designed to mould precisely to the wearer’s hand contours within minutes to achieve a customised, comfortable fit. Both gloves have passed the independent OKEO-TEX ® 100 Standard, which checks for chemicals that could cause skin irritations and have been independently dermatologically tested and approved, by the proDERM Institute for Applied Dermatological Research giving wearers confidence that the gloves are hypoallergenic and suitable for the entire workforce including allergy sufferers or those with sensitive skin. Protective eyewear needs to be selected based on the wearer’s head and facial shape and should deliver a low-pressure, lightweight fit with even weight distribution. uvex offers a wide range of styles and designs and has devised a seven-point safety eyewear fit guide which it will be demonstrating at the show, to help visitors identify the ideal spectacle or goggle. The World Health Organisation states “Noise induced hearing loss is the most common, permanent and irreversible injury in the world and tinnitus is the third most serious non-fatal medical condition”. To support wearers of hearing protection, the team at uvex will be showcasing it’s latest innovation the uvex xact-fit test system. The device verifies that hearing protection is fitted correctly for maximum protection and provides documented evidence of adequate protection. As part of its educational programme, the uvex xact-fit test system supports discussions with wearers regarding differences in ear canal shape and size and the selection of the most effective protection for their workplace. If you would like to see first-hand how the test kit works, visit the team on the stand. Clair Weston adds: “With proper fit comes comfort and compliance. We’re excited to show Health & Safety Event attendees how our innovative range of PPE and fitting solutions can ensure true WEARability – helping workers stay safe, comfortable and focus on the task at hand.” Glasses giveaway Visitors to the stand will also get the chance to win a pair of sports glasses worn by the uvex-sponsored Circus-Wanty Tour De France team. uvex is inviting guests to answer five questions as part of a gameshow-style quiz on safety. The format was created to highlight the work of the uvex academy, which offers distribution partners and end-users qualified education and training relating to PPE and occupational safety. For more information, please visit Stand: 4/F20 at The Health & Safety Event or visit uvex-safety.com/en/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Maintaining a property in the vibrant city of London requires attention to detail and access to reliable maintenance services. In the heart of this bustling metropolis, a company stands out for its dedication to excellence in property maintenance, offering a comprehensive suite of services including gas engineering work, plumbing, electrical services, and more. Let’s explore how these services contribute to the upkeep and enhancement of London’s diverse architectural landscape. For property owners seeking trustworthy maintenance solutions in London, Safehouse property maintenance services London is the name to remember. Gas Engineering Work Gas engineering is a critical aspect of property maintenance, ensuring the safe operation of heating systems, boilers, and appliances. Expert gas engineering services are crucial in London, given the prevalence of central heating systems. From installation and repairs to safety inspections and compliance checks, skilled gas engineers play a pivotal role in maintaining the functionality and safety of gas-powered equipment in residential and commercial properties across the city. Plumbing Services Effective plumbing is essential for the proper functioning of any property, be it a residential home, an office building, or a retail establishment. In London’s densely populated urban environment, plumbing issues such as leaks, blockages, and pipe damage can arise unexpectedly, disrupting daily life and potentially causing water damage. Professional plumbing services offer timely solutions to address these issues, from repairing faulty fixtures to installing new plumbing systems and ensuring uninterrupted water supply and drainage for London’s inhabitants. Electrical Services In an age where electricity powers virtually every aspect of modern life, reliable electrical services are indispensable for maintaining the safety and functionality of properties in London. From wiring and lighting installations to electrical repairs and safety inspections, qualified electricians play a vital role in ensuring that properties remain up to code and free from electrical hazards. Whether it’s a residential apartment, a commercial office space, or a retail storefront, access to prompt and efficient electrical services is crucial for the smooth operation of businesses and the comfort of residents in London. Other property maintenance and repair services Beyond gas engineering, plumbing, and electrical work, a comprehensive property maintenance company in London offers a wide range of services to address the diverse needs of property owners and managers. From general repairs and maintenance tasks to specialized services such as heating system upgrades, air conditioning installations, and building renovations, these companies serve as trusted partners in preserving and enhancing the value of properties throughout the city. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major renovation project, property owners can rely on these professionals to deliver quality workmanship and exceptional service. The Safe House Advantage A team of experienced professionals with years of industry expertise oversees your property maintenance needs at Safe House Services. From certified technicians to skilled craftsmen, Safe House Services employs personnel who are adept at delivering high-quality maintenance solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Safe House Services prides itself on delivering workmanship of the highest caliber. Safe House Services executes every job, be it a minor repair task or a major renovation project, with precision and attention to detail, ensuring lasting results that exceed expectations. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Safe House Services places great emphasis on communication, transparency, and responsiveness. From the initial consultation to the completion of the project, Safe House Services keeps clients informed at every stage, prioritizing their needs and preferences to deliver a personalized maintenance experience. Conclusion In the dynamic urban landscape of London, property maintenance plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity and functionality of buildings across the city. Access to reliable maintenance solutions is essential for property owners seeking to uphold safety, comfort, and efficiency standards in their buildings, from gas engineering work and plumbing services to electrical installations and general repairs. By entrusting their maintenance needs to experienced professionals, Londoners can ensure that their properties remain well-maintained and equipped to meet the demands of modern urban living.
Shadow Industrial, the UK’s leading shortwave infrared heating specialist, recently supported the refit of a 3,500m2 warehouse in Bishop Stortford, Hertfordshire. Occupied and operated by Shadow Industrial’s sister company, Handy Dryers, the space had originally been fitted with an Ambi Rad system. Seeing the massive utility bills and CO2 emissions being produced, the companies’ owner, Steve Levy, evaluated the existing HVAC system within the leased property and persuaded the landlords to trial shortwave infrared heating as an alternative. Replacing the existing system with Shadow Industrial’s shortwave infrared, 7 Shadow Infinity 12kw heaters were installed in the space, and the ROI has already been observed, with an 87% cut in energy bills. Taking a closer look at the project… Decarbonising our depots The race is on to decarbonise the UK’s industrial sector, from factory floor to the distribution depot. Whilst ONS claimed the UK transportation and warehouse vertical saw a 9% reduction last year, with UK business and industry still accounting for almost a fifth of the nation’s emissions, more can be done to achieve carbon neutrality. It was something at the front of Handy Dryers’ mind and, having an oven-baked partner in Shadow Industrial, made the process easier. For the company, the biggest challenge revolved around energy efficiency, which not only plagued the manufacturer with significant energy inefficiency, but had the knock-on effect of higher-than-necessary operational costs and emissions. That wasn’t all, uncomfortable workers mean unproductive, and potentially unhealthy, ones, and Handy Dryers was keen to achieve an environment where staff could safely perform to their best. Sustainably delivering maximum comfort This prompted Steve and the Handy Dryers team into action. Presenting a compelling case to the landlords, he suggested trialling Shadow Industrial’s systems on-site to demonstrate their efficacy, and convince them to sign-off on a full retrofit of the facility. To win their hearts and minds, it was also about communicating what sets infrared apart from other types of heating. Simply, the technology works by emitting focused radiant heat through a precision-engineered smooth parabola reflector; it heats the person, not the air around them. Wall-mounted and directed downward at individuals, the energy creates a comfortable and instant warmth, mimicking the gentle heat of the sun. It’s fast becoming popular in warehouses and depots, as it’s easy to install with low energy consumption. It’s also unaffected by changes in air movement, making it particularly efficacious in draughty settings. Climate-agnostic heating With installation taking just 2 days, its benefits were soon felt. Not only were staff on site kept comfortably warm, energy bills quickly fell alongside emissions, by a massive 50% in the first month of use. According to Handy Dryers’ Warehouse Manager, Martin Walker, “The installation of the 3kW Shadow Industrial Heaters and Shadow Infinity 12kW heaters has been a game-changer, not just in terms of keeping utility bills to a minimum, but also worker welfare. We had found the previous system expensive and ineffective, especially during winter when temperatures could wildly fluctuate as the door to the warehouse was opened and closed.” As Shadow Industrial founder and MD, Steve Levy, says, “The problem with traditional, convection heating is that, as we all know hot air rises and, within seconds of being introduced into a space, ends up in the roof void, benefiting no-one. This means that energy-intensive blowers are used to syphon the heat back down. This is a fine, if roundabout method, if there’s nowhere for the air to escape. However in an operational warehouse, with goods constantly moving in and out, heating the air is a poor option. This makes methods like gas and electric central heating incredibly inefficient. “By contrast, short wave infrared heats the people and the ground beneath their feet, making it incredibly efficient. it’s completely unaffected by atmospheric pressures and when correctly positioned, can keep an individual warm even if the door is open and the temperature outside is below zero. It’s no surprise that shortwave infrared heating is one of the fastest-growing and disruptive categories in the heating and ventilation sector.” To find out more about Shadow Industrial’s infrared heating systems, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pure Vista Ltd have their next CPD session certified and ready to go Next online open session is on Friday the 26th April at 1pm. Pure Vista’s newest CPD session is an Introduction to Martyn’s Law and the relevance of anti-terror glass balustrades. In this informative session, you will learn about anti-terror glass balustrades, how they can work for you, the benefits, force loadings, product testing and safe substrates for installation. We will discuss the fundamentals of Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law) and what this new legislation might mean for your project. This CPD certified session on the Introduction to Martyn’s Law and the relevance of anti-terror glass balustrade is now available. In this informative session, you will learn about anti-terror glass balustrade, force loading, and safe substrates for installation. We will discuss the fundamentals of Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law). Additionally, we will introduce our fire rated balustrade, which can be used over 11m high. Our session will cover building regulations, product testing, and results for this safety glass balustrade system. We are committed to providing you with all the necessary information. We will ensure to answer all your questions at the end of the session. Our aim is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions regarding the safety of your buildings and projects. Our glass balustrade system meets building regulations and has been rigorously tested and designed for optimal results and performance. Contact our helpful team to book a session today – we can provide this online or in person to large groups. At Pure Vista, we’re a Cornish business with over thirteen years of experience providing top-tier balustrade systems to satisfied customers worldwide. We are regularly involved in projects from domestic homes to airports and train stations. Our innovative products are designed to meet the needs of modern architecture and health and safety regulations, without sacrificing beauty. We take great pride in offering the latest in glass railing systems. Complete with unparalleled technical support and the kind of personalised service you can only get from a trusted business. When you chose Pure Vista, you’re not just getting a product – you’re getting a commitment to quality and authenticity that runs deep in everything we do. Register for this session by signing up on our website CPD page or email sales@pure-vista.com Event link: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/d71cfef9-352c-43fd- b09e-611bf57be9a4@5092b490-5471-4368-9c57-6fbcdc5c19dc Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A joint venture (JV) between Chancerygate and Northwood Urban Logistics has achieved practical completion on its 130,483 sq ft Bridgewater Point development at Trafford Park in Manchester. The last-mile urban logistics scheme comprises 16 high specification Grade A leasehold units, ranging in size from 5,114 sq ft to 13,571 sq ft with the potential to combine units to provide a single unit of 44,694 sq ft. Bridgewater Point has been supported by a joint multi-million pound loan from the North West Evergreen Fund and Trafford Council to enable the delivery of high-quality, sustainable employment premises. Located at 103 Barton Dock Road, the scheme sits on one of the most prominent sites in Trafford Park and benefits from excellent access to Manchester city centre and is one mile from junction 9 of the M60. Neighbouring occupiers include Kellogg’s, Amazon, L’Oréal and Adidas. All the units at Bridgewater Point feature electric vehicle charging points and solar cells on their roofs which provide up to 35 per cent of the units’ energy needs. In addition, the units are constructed from high-performance building materials to reduce CO2 emissions. The scheme has achieved an EPC A and BREEAM Very Good rating. Following practical completion at Bridgewater Point, a 12,576 sq ft unit and a 8,748 sq ft unit are currently under offer at the development. Chancerygate development director and head of its Warrington office, Mike Walker, said: “Bridgewater Point is the first new build Grade A multi-unit scheme to be built in Trafford Park for 15 years. “Sitting in one of the premier industrial locations for Manchester, the scheme is best placed to serve the city and the wider North West region. “There is strong demand from businesses for high quality, sustainable accommodation, and thanks to its prime location and close proximity to key infrastructure, Bridgewater Point will help meet this. “We have seen strong early interest in the units and currently are in serious negotiations with several occupiers, so expect to put more units under offer very soon.” The North West Evergreen Fund exists to support the delivery of commercial property and infrastructure projects in Greater Manchester, Cumbria, Cheshire and Lancashire. It is managed by CBRE’s investment advisory team, part of CBRE Capital Advisors. Northwood Urban Logistics is part of Northwood Investors, a privately held firm that owns and operates real estate across the US and Europe. The firm currently manages approximately $10bn of investor capital with its Manchester office headed by executive director Richard Pellatt. Founded in 1995, Chancerygate is the UK’s largest urban logistics property developer and asset manager and the only one operating nationwide. The company currently has around 2.65m sq ft of urban logistics space under construction or ready for development across 19 sites ranging from Edinburgh to Chichester. Agents for Bridgewater Point are JLL and Davies Harrison. For more information visit www.chancerygate.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Science and Media Museum has announced that it anticipates a 2025 reopening, aligning with the Bradford district’s UK City of Culture celebrations. The museum temporarily closed in June last year to undergo a once-in-a-generation transformation with huge changes through a £6 million capital project called ‘Sound and Vision’, including two new permanent galleries, a new passenger lift and improvements to the main entrance, thanks to support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The museum had initially been set to reopen this summer, however due to unforeseen delays to the excavation of an additional passenger lift shaft, it is now anticipated that the museum will open in two phases, with the building welcoming visitors at the start of the Bradford district’s City of Culture year, and the new Sound and Vision galleries launching later in 2025. Commenting on the plans, Jo Quinton-Tulloch, Director of the National Science and Media Museum said: “Our new Sound and Vision galleries will completely transform the museum’s visitor offer by showcasing our incredible collections and ensuring visitors can find stories that resonate with them. “Having an additional passenger lift is a crucial part of our transformation that will enable us to welcome many more visitors in 2025 and beyond. Despite extensive survey work before the excavation commenced, our contractors encountered an unexpected make-up of ground at the base of the lift, which took much longer to excavate than anticipated. Whilst the impact of this delay in the short term is frustrating, our Sound and Vision project will future proof the museum for decades to come. “Our new gallery designs reveal how the spaces will be dynamic, interactive and inspiring, underlining how all areas of our collection from photography to videogaming are embedded in every aspect of our lives. Visitors will be able to see the first ever photographic image; have a go at being a sound engineer; step inside the studio of a local radio station and enter a live art installation. We’ve also worked closely with local communities to ensure we’re telling stories that are relevant to Bradford, showcasing the creativity and diversity of our home city. We look forward to welcoming visitors back into the museum and into our new Sound and Vision galleries in 2025.” During this extended temporary closure, the museum will continue to engage with audiences through a vibrant off-site offer. Since June, the museum’s Learning team have been bringing their ‘Visiting You’ programme of educational workshops and activities to local schools and community venues, reaching out to more than 6,000 school children to date. The team has also developed an exciting school holiday offer in partnership with venues across the Bradford district. Elsewhere, while Pictureville Cinema remains temporarily closed until this summer, the museum continues to host a series of cult and classic film screenings as part of its busy Pictureville Presents off-site offer at Bradford Alhambra Studios. With more details about the upcoming cinema programme to be announced soon. As well as announcing the updated reopening plans, the museum has revealed a tantilising glimpse of the latest designs for its new permanent Sound and Vision galleries, including details of gallery themes and stories, along with an artist commission for an interactive installation. Thanks to £3.4m support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, made possible by National Lottery players, the new galleries will completely transform two floors of the museum, reimagining the display and interpretation of its world-class collections of photography, film, television, animation, video games and sound technologies. Designed by gallery architects, AOC (Agents of Change), the new galleries will showcase the museum’s core collections through the four key themes of Innovation, Identities, Storytelling and Everywhere, to lead visitors on a journey through the explosion of sound and image technologies, and the impact on our lives. The latest design renders illustrate some of these themes and the key moments and stories that visitors will be able to explore throughout the galleries. In the section on Identities, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in an interactive space with ‘sound showers’, a mixing desk and dance floor to evoke the shared experience and thrill of live performances and gigs. A key moment in Storytelling will take visitors through the long history of creating animation from flipbooks and stop motion to digital illustrations through the stories of beloved fictional characters such as the March Hare from Alice in Wonderland. Local radio station, Bradford Community Broadcasting (BCB) will also feature in the new galleries in Everywhere, where an interactive studio space will tell the story of how sound and image technologies have enabled local community representation in broadcasting and give visitors the chance to be a radio DJ. In a newly reconfigured part of the galleries which has opened up a double height space, artist Nayan Kulkarni has been commissioned to create an interactive installation called ‘Circus.’ Visitors will be invited to enter a room that comes to life using a captured live feed of themselves, like a chamber of mirrors, encouraging visitors to engage with broadcast technologies and see how image manipulation has changed over time. Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “It is incredibly exciting to see the designs of the new gallery spaces as part of the Sound and Vision project, which we’re thrilled to be supporting thanks to National Lottery players. The transformation of the National Science and Media Museum will ensure this national and local treasure is a star attraction for City of Culture 2025, and it will also have a lasting and meaningful future with local people and visitors enjoying it for generations to come. Improving access to the museum is an important element of the project, so although there is a short delay, this work will enable more people to experience the wonders of science and media.” A vibrant activity plan sits alongside the development of the new galleries, supporting greater access, representation and volunteering opportunities, focused on enabling more people to engage with the museum.
Sika’s Roofing Division is proud to announce its selection as finalists in two categories of the NFRC UK Roofing Awards 2024. The company has been recognised for its impressive contributions in the technology fields of Bituminous Hot Applied Liquid Waterproofing and Cold Applied Liquid Waterproofing. Judges were impressed by two exemplary projects that showcase the company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and excellence in roofing solutions. In the Bituminous Hot Applied Liquid Waterproofing category, Sika has been shortlisted for its involvement on a project at Rhodes House, part of the University of Oxford and home to the scholarship team. As part of a large refurbishment plan, large subterranean spaces were excavated beneath the building to create lecture theatres and new pavilions were created. The project required large volumes of concrete to be waterproofed and installed at zero-degree falls. Roofing contractor, Fenland Flat Roofing successfully installed a high penetration primer, before the SikaShield® hot melt structural waterproofing system. Fenland Flat Roofing was able to overcome multiple challenges such as tight workspaces, close proximity to other trades and the aesthetic requirements needed to keep the building in line with its impressive history. For the Cold Applied Liquid Waterproofing category, Sika submitted its large-scale residential project, Burnt Mills in Harlow, Essex. Once home to a series of garages and workshops, it has been redeveloped into 173 homes over 15 storeys, forming one of the tallest buildings in Harlow. Roofing contractors, Contour Roofing used Sikalastic 625N PU Liquid in Grey for the project. The product’s exceptional quality and ease of installation helped Contour Roofing overcome numerous obstacles, such as roof penetrations, to allow for services, and roof plant housing. Mark Gatrell, Business Unit Manager at Sika expressed their excitement at being shortlisted for the awards: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for two NFRC UK Roofing Awards. This acknowledgement reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality roofing solutions, and we are proud of our team’s dedication and expertise, working alongside high quality roofing contractors, which has directly contributed to us reaching this achievement.” Sika’s Roofing Division looks forward to the opportunity to showcase its projects and expertise at the finalists’ ceremony, taking place on Friday 10th May at InterContinental London – The O2. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Trevor Steven, mental health ambassador, Causeway Technologies Construction sites are bustling hubs of activity, but the focus is often geared towards the finished product and the safety and well-being of the building’s occupants. Rarely do we take a moment to consider the people who bring these structures to life: the construction workers. However, it is important to ensure they are not overlooked. The latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that 45 building workers died because of work-based accidents in 2022/23. Shockingly, there were 507 cases of suicide among them in 2022. The real crisis in construction Having visited several construction sites throughout the country in my role as mental health ambassador for Causeway Technologies, I’ve surveyed a total of 1,439 workers about their mental health. Over an 18-month period, I gathered valuable insights into the reality of the mental health of such workers. More than half (56%) of respondents said they were either currently experiencing or have experienced a mental health problem in the past and 12% said they had experienced or were experiencing suicidal thoughts. The top five mental health issues were anxiety (40%), depression (37%), fatigue linked to low mood (28%), lack of self-confidence (25%), and feeling overwhelmed (25%). Just 21% of those surveyed said they have been diagnosed by a GP or other professional as having a mental health problem, which indicates there is a large group of construction site workers having to cope with undiagnosed symptoms. Work is having a negative impact While many said they were fighting battles in their personal lives, workers are plagued by worries in a professional setting about unrealistic deadlines, poor work/life balance and inadequate staffing. When asked what they think contributes to poor mental health in the construction industry, 59% said long and irregular working hours. Almost half (45%) of respondents cited job security as a key contributing factor for poor mental health. This is not necessarily surprising when you consider that government data from 2018 suggests nearly half of construction workers might lack the security of a permanent position. Such statistics show the importance of acknowledging the prevalence of temporary workers and subcontracted workers within the construction industry, as they often miss out on the benefits typically associated with permanent roles. Some of the feedback we gathered from construction workers was about how they don’t always receive financial support if they require time off for any sickness absences. It was said that factors such as this could be contributing to poor mental health and high suicide rates. A new definition for construction cost Our research prompts a critical re-evaluation of how we define construction cost. Traditionally, this refers to the financial figures outlined in project agreements. However, our findings suggest we should adopt a potentially more holistic perspective: to prioritise the idea of talking about mental health at work. Perhaps the true cost of construction should include not only the financial outlay but also the human cost – the impact on the mental health of the workforce who transform blueprints into reality. The UK construction industry is worth £132.989 billion (in annual output). Is it fair to stand and watch future construction workers suffer mentally while the industry flourishes? Causeway’s commitment We are urging all contractors to consider the mental well-being of staff and demonstrate to workers their commitment to ensuring mental health is made just as important as profits by signing up to our pledge. The support we receive will allow us to lobby the government – centrally and locally – to drive a change in legislation to support better mental health in the construction industry. Specifically, we want to see mental health policies mandated for all procurement frameworks, contracts, and processes. The construction industry does have the capacity to change, despite the tragic statistics. Just look at how much progress has been made in other areas of health and safety. Read more about our mental health campaign and sign the pledge today via: www.causeway.com/about-us/mental-health Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Industry-leading decorative panel and sheet experts Panelco has announced a strategic brand partnership with specialist technical and decorative panel designer and manufacturer Polyrey to expand the range of high-pressure laminate (HPL) and compact laminate products it can offer its customers. As a prominent stockist and manufacturer of innovative products, ranges and decorative designs, Panelco has grown over its two-decade history to become a byword for quality in the sector. This new partnership sees the company work together with Polyrey, part of Wilsonart Egineered Surfaces, the global leader in engineered decorative surfaces. Beginning in April, the two businesses will cooperate to offer an extensive collection of Polyrey products to Panelco’s customer base of design and architectural professionals. The collection will include Polyrey’s newly-launched Galerie range – the largest single collection of interior panels for commercial applications. Galerie gives fabricators, manufacturers and specifiers the opportunity to choose from a collection of over 800 designs comprising a multitude of decors and finishes inspired by the most prominent design and societal trends driving the interiors market. With 90 new designs and a new Silk finish which brings Galerie’s total number of finish options to 18, Polyrey has fused premium technical performance with aesthetic impact. The new partnership will see Panelco offer Polyrey’s Galerie Integral and Plus ranges, alongside the brand’s other specialist collections including Cubicle & Washroom, Durion and Doors. With over 60 years of manufacturing heritage, Polyrey are at the forefront of technical and decorative surfaces. Galerie Integral decors are available in high pressure laminate (HPL), melamine faced chipboard (MFC) and compact laminate. The Galerie Plus collection presents specifiers with an additional set of premium designs available in HPL and compact laminate. “We are delighted to announce this new partnership with Polyrey and be able to offer their extensive product range, covering all applications associated with their HPL and Compact collections.” said Julie Dean, Group Marketing Manager at Panelco. “Polyrey is well-known for supplying innovative surface solutions to the design and architectural sectors; their exceptional designs, quality, service and availability will strengthen our wider decorative portfolio. We are truly excited to be part of this partnership and look forward to seeing how the start of this new chapter will benefit both businesses.” Polyrey is a registered RIBA CPD provider in the UK, ensuring its team of engineered surfaces experts is on hand to support architects with their ongoing professional development. This expertise proved appealing to the Panelco team, who are looking forward to taking their next step as a company together with Polyrey. For more information on Panelco’s new offering, please visit panelco.com or contact sales@panelco.com. Alternatively, to explore the new Galerie collection by Polyrey, visit wilsonart.co.uk/polyrey. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
South Staffordshire Plc’s compliance division is delighted to welcome Nicki Hay as its new sales director. Nicki will join the senior management team overseeing all aspects of sales for the two compliance businesses, Integrated Water Services (IWS) Water Hygiene and Omega Red Group. Nicki’s background of over 20 years in senior sales leadership means that she brings with her a wealth of experience specialising in people and process development, sales leadership, sales analysis and sales and marketing improvement. Nicki is customer focused with a passion for developing individuals, sales teams, and strong customer relationships. Neil Shailer, managing director of South Staffordshire Plc’s compliance division commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Nicki to the team as sales director. With Nicki’s vast experience in sales and passion for forging strong customer relationships, I’m confident that she will be an invaluable member of our leadership team and play a fundamental part in our continued success and growth.” The compliance division of the Group offers lightning protection services, electrical earthing solutions, height safety solutions, Legionella control, water treatment and air hygiene services all of which help clients achieve compliance to a range of relevant standards and regulation. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
