More than 300 started out but the quest to be crowned NICEIC and ELECSA Apprentice of the Year is now down to the final eight. The contest – launched in conjunction with partner sponsor, Scolmore Group – recognises the talents of the brightest electrical students in the
In an industry that is forever changing and adapting, it can sometimes be hard to stay on top of all the latest construction and mining news. If we consider how far we have come since the days where we would have to do all the work machines do today by
The North Kent Enterprise zone was announced in the Autumn Statement in November 2015 by Chancellor of the Exchequer. The plans were for 26 new or extended enterprise zones to be added to the 24 zones that were created in 2012. These Enterprise Zones are thought to be a key
BAM Construct UK has announced that they have a new charity partner. The construction company has teamed up with CLIC Sargent, the children’s cancer support charity. Bam has also pledged to raise £100,000 for the charity over the next two years. The money that is raised by the construction company
Nicola Yates OBE has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Future Cities Catapult. Yates will begin her role on the 22nd May 2017. Future Cities Catapult is a company that works to expand companies in order to improve cities. The company aims to allow other businesses, universities and
Sandblasting Media Market size is anticipated to grow at 6.5% CAGR from 2016 to 2023. Global sandblasting media market size, in volume terms, is set to grow at just under 6% CAGR. U.S. sandblasting media market size is to exceed USD 96 million by 2023.Key industry participants comprise Barton International,
Book Course HSL is to run a 2 day course on COSHH Training – Practical Assessment and Control. 20-21 July 2016 This two day course gives detailed and practical training on carrying out COSHH assessments and, crucially, putting the assessment into practice to control substances hazardous to health. Many people
Ofgem has launched a mid-period review (MPR) into price controls for National Grid Electricity Transmission and National Grid Gas Transmission to review three specific outputs. The MPR will look at whether there have been any changes to outputs relating to National Grid Gas Transmission’s Avonmouth pipeline, the
Whether you’re selling your home or just want to make some positive life changes, improving the eco-friendliness is a great way to increase your property value, reduce your costs and reduce your impact on the environment. Insulation By insulating your loft with recyclable materials you can better heat your home
The Government has recently announced a policy that dictates any land or buildings that are located at plant nurseries should benefit from the exemption from business rates that are seen by the agricultural sector. The Horticultural Trades Association, or HTA, has said that they welcome the Government policy change. The
More than 300 started out but the quest to be crowned NICEIC and ELECSA Apprentice of the Year is now down to the final eight. The contest – launched in conjunction with partner sponsor, Scolmore Group – recognises the talents of the brightest electrical students in the UK and is now down to the decisive stage. The remaining students will have to complete several practical tests and undergo a short interview with industry legends Tony Cable and Darren Staniforth before the winner of the first ever NICEIC and ELECSA Electrical Apprentice of the Year is announced. The Grand Final takes place at Scolmore’s headquarters in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on 9 June. Julie Blake, senior marketing manager at Certsure, which operates the NICEIC and ELECSA brands, said: “It has been a tough process but we are excited about the upcoming final“Apprentices are the lifeblood of our industry and it has been encouraging to see how committed they have been. The overall standard and general level of enthusiasm shown by everyone is a credit to the industry.” The final eight are:Chris Powell, 23, from WakefieldScott Lewis, 19, from DevonBenjamin Vanstone, 18 from Weston Super MareMichael Wooley, 20, from TelfordDominic Ede, 21, from CornwallJoshua Casey, 21, from HalifaxRobbie McGowan, 21, from YorkshireMark Lee, 22, from Essex The finalists have had to battle through two stages of the contest, which began in December 2015. The first stage of the contest was an online exam comprising of a variety of questions relating to electrical installations. The top 20% performing students from that stage then progressed to stage 2 – a practical one-hour exam held at one of seven locations across the UK. Marie Parry, Scolmore Group’s marketing director said: “We understand the importance of supporting the industry and we are committed to playing our part to help the electricians of today and tomorrow to develop their skills and grow their businesses. We are delighted to be involved with the Apprentice of the Year and the results so far demonstrate that there is a wealth of talent out there and that bodes well for the future of the industry.” Each finalist will now receive an iPad with a host of other prizes up for grabs including a £2000 holiday voucher for the winner, which can be spent on a trip of their choice. There is a £500 holiday voucher for the runner up. Source link
In an industry that is forever changing and adapting, it can sometimes be hard to stay on top of all the latest construction and mining news. If we consider how far we have come since the days where we would have to do all the work machines do today by hand, the significance of knowing about and understanding the latest developments is truly highlighted. The following news has been collated from happenings across the globe, which also shows the wide-reaching and global significance of this industry and why it is so important to remain knowledgeable about the developments taking place within it. Drone Adaptation The power of drones has yet to reach its full potential and this is made all the more evident in the fact that drones are now being adapted to be used in the mining and agriculture. Drones essentially are being programmed to offer more advanced solution to problems on construction sites, mines and quarries. From a safety point of view, drones could also be really beneficial with minimising the risks faced by construction workers on a daily basis, something which is very much welcomed. EW60E Wheeled Excavator Introduced Volvo has just debuted its latest EW60E wheeled excavator that not only offers increased efficiency but also a smaller engine. This development has proven to be very popular with the construction industry who are always looking ahead to make the work they do more efficient. The excavator even features a number of attachments such as a hydraulic coupler and is compatible with other hydraulic breakers. Sand Prices on the Rise According to the reports of certain construction stakeholders, there has been concern with regards to the fact that the price of sand needed for construction work has increased considerably in recent months in Asia. This has also coincided with the fact that other raw materials are also seeing an increase in price which is hitting the industry badly in the fact as it now cost more to extract the materials and transport them too. With sand and gravel being the most extracted material in the world, the problem of expensive sand is likely to have a significant impact on the rest of the construction industry, globally. Women in Construction The Mining Journal has recently reported on the increase in the number of women learning about construction in the form of electricity, welding and woodwork. While this is not directly related to mining, it is significant in the fact that it suggests that more women are being encouraged to take on careers that would have previously been considered to be male dominated. Through encouraging the younger generation to see construction as not just offering career opportunities for one gender, this is likely to have a significant impact on the future of construction and related industries. The future of the mining and construction industries is beginning to shift and this is significant in the fact that it is pioneering the change of challenging gender roles in the workplace.
The North Kent Enterprise zone was announced in the Autumn Statement in November 2015 by Chancellor of the Exchequer. The plans were for 26 new or extended enterprise zones to be added to the 24 zones that were created in 2012. These Enterprise Zones are thought to be a key part of the strategy laid out by the government to create local area growth in a number of different areas around the country. The North Kent Enterprise Zone has gone live, which will give financial incentives for businesses that relocate there. The Enterprise Zones are offering benefits including business rate discounts that could be worth anything up to £55,000 for 5 years. The plan is that the uplift generated by the business rates will be retained by their local authorities in order to allow them to invest it locally in economic growth. The funds will be retained by the authorities for 25 years, which should allow them to get the best investment possible from the uplift. The North Kent Enterprise Zone was expected to begin on the 1st April. It is thought that the new Enterprise Zone will create growth in the local area and also lead to more jobs being generated. The business rates discounts will be available to those who move to the Enterprise Zone by 31st March 2022. There are three different schemes that make up the North Kent Enterprise Zone: Ebbsfleet Garden City, Kent Medical Campus and Rochester Airport Technology Park. The Enterprise Zones are already in progress, and it is thought that the first tenants at the Zones will be welcomed at some point next year. The Local Growth Minister, Andrew Percy has said that their plans for these Enterprise Zones is to stimulate business growth by providing the right environment for them. These Enterprise Zones are intended in order to strengthen the British economy. It is thought that the Enterprise Zones will be a strong platform for businesses to expand and develop.
BAM Construct UK has announced that they have a new charity partner. The construction company has teamed up with CLIC Sargent, the children’s cancer support charity. Bam has also pledged to raise £100,000 for the charity over the next two years. The money that is raised by the construction company will mean that more children and young people that have cancer are able to thrive instead of survive during and after their treatment. The team at BAM Construct have chosen CLIC Sargent as their new charity after inviting a number of different charities to pitch for the position of their new charity partner. The pledge by Bam to raise £100,000 could mean that CLIC Sargent would be able to provider more than 4,000 hours of support for the young cancer patients as well as offering support for their families. CLIC Sargent’s team of nurses, social workers and frontline medical staff based around the UK fight to reduce the impact cancer causes areas beyond the child or young person’s health by looking to reduce disruption in areas such as education, social life, finances and future prospects. BAM Construct will be carrying out employee fundraising activities in order to raise funds to meet the target that they have set. On top of this there will also be opportunities for members of the BAM team to volunteer at the CLIC Sargent ‘Homes from Home’ facilities. These are houses that are close to specialist treatment hospitals around the UK and are offered as free accommodation to the families when they child is undergoing treatment. The charity has welcomed the support offered by their position as charity partner for Bam Construct UK, and it is hoped that the money raised by the construction company will make a significant difference to the patients that are helped by CLIC Sargent.
Nicola Yates OBE has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Future Cities Catapult. Yates will begin her role on the 22nd May 2017. Future Cities Catapult is a company that works to expand companies in order to improve cities. The company aims to allow other businesses, universities and city leaders the opportunity to work together to find solutions for their cities now and in the future. Future Cities Catapult has an Urban Innovation Centre in London where they offer their world class facilities and expertise in order to offer support in order for new products and services to be developed. The facility also offers an environment for collaboration and space to test different ideas and improve on business model plans. Nicola Yates has worked within the sector of urban regeneration over the past 10 years. Nicola Yates has been known as a leading thinker and practitioner in her previous roles. Nicola has also held the position of CEO before her appointment at Future Cities Catapult. Those previous positions of CEO were at Bristol City and Hull City Councils as well as North Shropshire District Council. Nicola Yates has been part of the successful Bristol Is Open campaign that took place in 2014 in which she worked with Nokia, NEC and Interdigital Ltd. Hopefully Nicola will be equally as successful in her new position. Also during Nicola’s time in her position at Bristol City Council the city was awarded with the European Green Capital 2015 by the European Commission. The UK City Index also named Bristol the leading smart city outside London during Nicola’s time there as well as being nominated by the Sunday Times as the ‘Best Place to Live’ in England in 2016. Future Cities is recognised around the world as a centre for urban innovation excellence. The current CEO, Peter Madden OBE will be on hand to support Nicola Yates as she transitions in tot the role, and will also stay on hand for 12 months in a part time ambassador role in order to allow for continuity during the change.
Sandblasting Media Market size is anticipated to grow at 6.5% CAGR from 2016 to 2023. Global sandblasting media market size, in volume terms, is set to grow at just under 6% CAGR. U.S. sandblasting media market size is to exceed USD 96 million by 2023.Key industry participants comprise Barton International, Harsco, ABShot Tecnics, Crystal Mark, Washington Mills, Opta Minerals, TriVitro Corporation, U.S. Silica Holdings. China abrasive blasting media market is among the largest regional segments due to considerable demand across application areas. Sandblasting Media Market size is anticipated to grow at 6.5% CAGR from 2016 to 2023. Global sandblasting media market size, in volume terms, is set to grow at just under 6% CAGR. U.S. sandblasting media market size is to exceed USD 96 million by 2023. Sandblasting Media Market size is expected to reach USD 441.9 million by 2023; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Industry volume was over 750 kilo tons in 2015, with growth expectations of 5.9% CAGR over the forecast timeframe. Request Sample pages from this industry analysis report@https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/514 Robotic blasting systems are increasingly adopted in order to enhance the scope of sandblasting media market size in areas where quality control needs are not sufficed by standardized automation solutions. Industries including aerospace, automotive, medical and consumer electronics make use of this equipment for several applications including material removal, stress relief, mold cleaning, surface preparation, coating removal and shot peening. Optional features offered such as servo controlled rotary positioner, automated media flow control, automatic blast pressure control, rotary lance capabilities, custom data collection, report generation, automatic recovery is likely to drive demand. U.S. sandblasting media market size is forecast to exceed USD 96 million by 2023. Sandblasting media market applications include the use of abrasives to cut, roughen, smooth, clean or polish surfaces, or to remove material to modify surface dimensions or shapes. In addition, these abrasive particles are also used in coated and bonded forms for several applications including polishing, cutting, surface finishing, and grinding. Industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace and industrial are the major end-use areas. Make an inquiry for buying this report@https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/514 In the automotive industry, this technique is majorly used in coating and paint spraying for surface cleaning and improving anti-corrosion ability and adhesion. Growing emphasis on improved manufacturing processes will prove beneficial to sandblasting media market revenue, since it not only requires higher usage per unit, but also correspondingly impacts demand for value-added higher priced products. China abrasive blasting media market is among the largest regional segments due to considerable demand across application areas. Health hazards associated with silica as an abrasive material is expected to hamper industry demand. Regulatory bodies such as National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have formed guidelines addressing many aspects of abrasive blasting including parameters such as proper airline length, and quality of breathing air provided to the abrasive blasting respirator. Key insights from the report include: Aluminum oxide abrasive blasting market accounted for over 10% of the industry share in 2015 and is forecast to grow at 7.2% CAGR from 2016 to 2023. It is preferred for specialized applications in which a particular surface finish is required that justifies the extra cost. Steel shot and grit are expected to gain significant industry share from 2016 to 2023 owing to extensive usage in the blast cleaning sector for the removal of mill scale, and paint and rust from steel surfaces. Silica sandblasting media market share dominated global consumption in 2015. This demand primarily originates from Asia Pacific, where the material finds extensive use due to absence of regulations similar to those seen in key European countries, as well as lower price point compared to alternative materials. Asia Pacific sandblasting media market share was over 45% in 2015. Significant durable goods sector and growing infrastructure spending is favorable for the region. Key industry participants comprise Barton International, Harsco, ABShot Tecnics, Crystal Mark, Washington Mills, Opta Minerals, TriVitro Corporation, U.S. Silica Holdings, etc. Global Market Insights has segmented the sandblasting media / abrasive market on the basis of product and region: Sandblasting Media Product Analysis (Revenue, USD Million, 2012 – 2023) Aluminum Oxide Silicon Carbide Steel Grit Steel Shot Glass Sodium Bicarbonate Corn Cob Staurolite Coal Slag Copper Slag Si Sand Garnet Sandblasting Media Regional Analysis (Revenue, USD Million, 2012 – 2023) North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America MEA Source link
Book Course HSL is to run a 2 day course on COSHH Training – Practical Assessment and Control. 20-21 July 2016 This two day course gives detailed and practical training on carrying out COSHH assessments and, crucially, putting the assessment into practice to control substances hazardous to health. Many people tasked with COSHH assessments are unsure what is required or where to get information. Once the initial assessment is complete, they are often uncertain on how to approach control, and how to judge when control is adequate. This course aims to give that knowledge and those skills. Day one covers assessing exposure and risk and includes case studies and the chance to work through examples. Day two moves on to implementing exposure controls that are effective and reliable, and includes practical demonstrations. The focus for both days is on practicality and effectiveness. Hazardous substances and risks from over exposure COSHH regulations and what they mean in practice Guidance and finding information Assessments and action plans Adequate control, understanding limits, the principles of good control practice Hierarchy of control and reliability Reducing exposure by process change and substitution Choosing and using effective LEV Choosing and using RPE Skin and ingestion exposure Choosing and using PPE The course will benefit anyone tasked with completing COSHH assessments and/or implementing controls, whether for the first time or to improve skills. This will typically include managers and supervisors and safety officers, plus other health and safety professionals looking to refresh or update their skills. The course will be run at the HSL laboratory in the spa town of Buxton. Buxton is in the heart of the Peak District and has good links to mainline train stations and Manchester International Airport. Details of hotels in the Buxton area can be found at www.visitbuxton.co.uk. The cost of the course is £695 per person (includes course notes, lunch and refreshments). Comments & Feedback “The knowledge gained from the trainer was exceptional.”Sean Thackwell, BOC Group Limited Book Course Please note the invoice option is not available within 4 weeks of the course date, or for overseas customers. For further dates and additional information email: training@hsl.gsi.gov.uk or contact the Training & Conferences Unit at HSL directly on +44 (0)1298 218806. Back to Health & Safety Training Courses Back to the top Source link
Ofgem has launched a mid-period review (MPR) into price controls for National Grid Electricity Transmission and National Grid Gas Transmission to review three specific outputs. The MPR will look at whether there have been any changes to outputs relating to National Grid Gas Transmission’s Avonmouth pipeline, the number of generation connections National Grid Electricity Transmission has had to undertake, and the increase in National Grid’s system operator role. Ofgem will not be opening a review for the electricity transmission price controls for SP Transmission and Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission, or into gas distribution as it has not identified any issues that justify an MPR. Ofgem will consult on proposals for any changes to outputs and associated revenues in the summer, before making a decision in late autumn 2016 for implementation from April 1 2017. The energy industry was divided over the need for an MPR, with British Gas and Citizen’s Advice calling for one in electricity and gas transmission, and gas distribution, while network companies were concerned an MPR would effectively create two shorter four-year control periods. Ofgem said it will be inviting views on how the RIIO price control framework is working when it consults on MPR proposals in the summer “to make sure it delivers for consumers in the current controls and make sure we learn any lessons for the next round of price controls. “We will continue to monitor the performance of the regulated network companies and the drivers of this as part of the annual reporting process to satisfy ourselves that the RIIO framework is working as well as possible,” it added. Ofgem said alongside the MPR it will be reviewing other areas of concern which were raised in a consultation held by Ofgem over its proposals to hold a review, although some of this work was already in progress. These include how it holds companies to account for outputs, filling any gaps in the RIIO framework, and improving the operation of some of the incentives. This work will be undertaken across both the transmission and gas distribution price controls. Source link
Whether you’re selling your home or just want to make some positive life changes, improving the eco-friendliness is a great way to increase your property value, reduce your costs and reduce your impact on the environment. Insulation By insulating your loft with recyclable materials you can better heat your home and consume less energy. While insulating your property can seem like a lengthy and expensive job, it is one that will likely pay for itself in time. The left/roof is the most important part of your property that needs to be insulated, around 30% of your home’s heat escapes through the walls as well, so consider for yourself how much you would like to invest in insulating your property. Plug holes Beware when it comes to covering up drafts in your home. While plugging up holes and cracks in your property can improve your energy efficiency, houses without a good source of ventilation can quickly develop problems with damp, especially old houses that deal with moisture and heat differently. To ensure that you don’t put your property at risk of damp while also ensuring that it is being heated properly, you can enquire into damp proofing services and surveys before tackling your energy efficiency. A damp survey is usually free and you can talk to the expert about the best options available to you. Energy saving There are many energy saving alternatives to products found around the home, including energy saving lightbulbs, kettles, microwaves, shower heads etc. While switching to these products might be a bit more expensive than you expected, the cost is more than worth it. These products tend to last longer than the ones you originally purchase and they can save your money on your energy bills. LED lights, for example, convert more energy into like than they do to heat, meaning that the energy isn’t wasted. You can also install a programmable thermostat to have more power over what parts of your house are heated, reducing heating costs considerably. Better windows The right windows can have a huge impact your home’s energy consumption. To start, double glazing should be a priority. They keep the heat in and the cold out as well as reducing drafts, which makes your heating more efficient and requires less energy to properly heat your property. Thick curtains are also a great insulations tool if you want to go a step further. They can keep your property warm or cool when it needs to be by keeping out the outside weather conditions. Wooden window frames are also more insulating, easier to repair and less polluting to make and they tend to be more attractive than cheap plastic framing, adding value to your property. If possible, keep your blinds or curtains out of the way during the day to make the most of natural light. Strong natural light can prevent the need to use lamps during the day. More natural light can also be useful if you decide to get a few houseplants, which can greatly improve the air quality in your home.
The Government has recently announced a policy that dictates any land or buildings that are located at plant nurseries should benefit from the exemption from business rates that are seen by the agricultural sector. The Horticultural Trades Association, or HTA, has said that they welcome the Government policy change. The changes have come in to fruition after lobbying by The NFU, who has received backing from a number of different organisations. The HTA backed the NFU in their fight to change Government policy, Turner Morum LLP and the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable have also been involved in the exemption campaign. It is thought that this policy change will allow those who are growers or involved in plant nurseries can now look at investing in the future safe in the knowledge of the business rates policy. It is thought that many of the grower members of the HTA were facing changes to their business rates this year for the first time. Previously they had been exempt due to an agricultural classification. For some businesses that have been caught up in this situation, they could have had to contend with hundreds of thousands of pounds in business rates being implemented when they were previously exempt. Such a massive increase in charges could have been disaster for some companies and seen a number of plant nurseries going out of business. The organisation worked together to lobby the government in order to get the exemption reinstated, and keep the business rates system from being applied to the plant nurseries. The lobbying has been successful and they have received a Ministerial Statement that suggests the work by the NFU, HTA and Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group has been successful. The announcement was made on the 30th March by Marcus Jones MP and minister for the Department for Communities and Local Government. Due to a recent Court of Appeal decision, the Valuation Office Agency were starting to increase business rates to those who were previously exempt. Due to the significant costs that could be incurred by business rates being added to the British farming industry it is important that the farming industry be exempt. The Minister then clarified that the buildings and land used for plant nurseries also receive the exemption.