SELECT, the campaigning body for the electro-technical trade in Scotland, has been updating its members on key points from the newly launched 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. SELECT’s Technical Standards Adviser, Bob Cairney, prepared the guide which is available in an on-line format to assist members to understand
Trade shows and exhibitions are a fantastic way of networking with like-minded professionals and customers, as well as generating leads. They’re the perfect way of cementing your brand within the industry, attracting new business and helping you to build new partnerships. Further to this, attending industry events allows you to
Architectural cladding specialist Pura Facades has been appointed as the sole UK distributor of VetaBric, the latest entrant to the fast-growing brick slip panel market. The lightweight panel alternative to traditional bricks can accurately reproduce the aesthetic of the majority of brick brands. It is also available in a new,
In 2005, the Fire Safety Legislation was implemented. The rules put an emphasis on fire safety and risk management, and the new legislation lays out the responsibilities of an organisation’s management. The legislation lays out the duty to manage fire safety, and describes what Fire Safety elements should be covered
Fork Lift Truck Association reveals ways companies and individuals can reward excellence (and be rewarded, too!) With preparations underway for the 2019 FLTA Annual Awards for Excellence, the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) is encouraging individuals and companies involved in lift truck operations to get involved. Now in its 25th
3D Laser Mapping Ltd and GeoSLAM Ltd merge, creating a global market leader in mapping and monitoring. Leading UK laser scanning and monitoring companies 3D Laser Mapping Ltd and GeoSLAM Ltd have merged to create one of the world’s most innovative mobile mapping and monitoring technology providers. 3D Laser Mapping
Cabling leader AEI Cables is taking fire performance to new levels with its Total Fire Solutions range of products for the built environment. The development of its Firetec range of cables using the very latest in technology and science offers enhanced fire performance cabling, accessories and technical support from one
Network Rail-approved supplier Scott Parnell has launched its latest product for the rail industry. The ARCOsizeZERO is an elevated troughing system for the easy installation of lightweight fibre optic cables which will form the backbone of the digital age. The new product is an extension of Scott Parnell’s existing ARCOSYSTEM,
Energy Assets Group has appointed Jayson Whitaker to head-up its recently-launched Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) business – and to extend the utility offer to housebuilders, developers and contractors to include fibre-to-the-home. He joins one of Britain’s leading independent metering, asset management and utility network construction companies as Managing Director
Rising land price over the last few years has added a positive inertia to the development of townships and residential complexes in the major cities and metros around the globe. These vertical residences which are often offered by companies and factories to their employees and workers are taking the place
SELECT, the campaigning body for the electro-technical trade in Scotland, has been updating its members on key points from the newly launched 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. SELECT’s Technical Standards Adviser, Bob Cairney, prepared the guide which is available in an on-line format to assist members to understand the changes contained in these important regulations. The guide will also feature in the next issue of SELECT’s CableTalk magazine. Bob said: “BS: 7671:2018 (The 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations) contains a number of significant changes which reflect industry best practice. “We have recently been out on the road to highlight the changes during our recent very successful Scotland-wide Toolbox Talks. These were held a few weeks ago and the presentations were well received by the members who attended”. A central theme of the regulations concerns improvements to the level of safety provided in new electrical installations and in particular with regard to fire safety. The 18th Edition introduces new devices called arc fault detection devices (AFDD) and these, where installed can provide an additional level of electrical safety from faults which other protective devices cannot detect specifically arcing faults. These are expected to be widely adopted by the industry. There is also new guidance on types of RCD and arrangement of devices to achieve selectivity between protective devices. Also of interest is informative guidance on energy efficiency. Darrell Mathews, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “These regulations incorporate the latest in technological developments across our sector and, while they do not come into force until 1 January 2019, we want SELECT members, as ever, to be in pole position.”
Trade shows and exhibitions are a fantastic way of networking with like-minded professionals and customers, as well as generating leads. They’re the perfect way of cementing your brand within the industry, attracting new business and helping you to build new partnerships. Further to this, attending industry events allows you to keep up to date with the latest trends, new regulations and other changes in the area. To make the most of these events, we recommend creating a bank of promotional industry materials for you to distribute. Brochures and business cards are great, but creating something unique to you, such as a custom created USB device from the likes of USBMakers.com and pre-loading it with data is the perfect way to display your knowledge and professionalism. If you’ve not been to any events so far this year, do not fear, as there are still lots of great events coming up. Here are some to consider: ARCOM Conference Date: 3rd-5th September Where: Belfast The theme for this event is ‘A productive relationship: Balancing fragmentation and integration’. It’ll cover various topic, including BIM, infrastructure development, offsite construction and health and safety. Constructing the future Date: 18th September Where: London Run by The City & Guilds Group and the Work Foundation, this networking event will bring together representatives from the CBI and TUC, with the discussions focusing on the future challenges facing the construction sector and the ways in which skills development and government policy such as the National Retraining Scheme needs to respond. Annual Conference and Housing Exhibition Date: 19th-20th September Where: London This event is incredibly popular and one not to miss. It’ll bring together thousands of housing professionals with top-level speakers from within the housing industry. London Design Fair Date: 20th-23rd September Where: London London Design Fair hosts the largest collection of international exhibitors, designers, brands, features and exhibitions including Tent London & Super Brands London in one place. It’s ideal for those wanting to showcase their furniture, lighting, textiles, digital media, architecture and graphics. London Homebuilding & Renovating Show Date: 21st-23rd Sep 2018 Where: London This show is aimed at consumers who are looking at undertaking self-build or renovating projects. Kent Construction Expo Date: 4th October Where: Maidstone This event attracts over 3,500 visitors and perfect for those in the south-east. UK Construction Week Date: 9th-11th October Where: Birmingham This is THE biggest gathering of Contractors, Consultants, Architects, Manufacturers, Project Managers, SME’s and Developers. It consists of nine shows under one roof, Build Show, Building Tech Live 2018, Civils Expo, Energy 2018, HVAC 2018, Plant & Machinery Live, Surface & Materials Show, Timber Expo and Grand Designs Live. London Build 2018 Date: 23rd-24th October Where: London Only have time for one event this year? Then make it this one! This event attracts over 300 exhibitors over 8 exhibition zones and usually brings in 30,000 attendees. All CPD and conferences are free to attend and cover topics such as BIM & Digital Construction, Sustainability, Fire Safety, Interiors and much more. Scotland Build 2018 Date: 21st-22nd November Where: Glasgow Just as with the London Build Show, the Scotland Build show brings together some of the industry’s greatest minds. There will be over 200 exhibitors and over 10,000 attendees. This is one not to miss. There are more events still to be announced, but this list is sure to get you started.
Architectural cladding specialist Pura Facades has been appointed as the sole UK distributor of VetaBric, the latest entrant to the fast-growing brick slip panel market. The lightweight panel alternative to traditional bricks can accurately reproduce the aesthetic of the majority of brick brands. It is also available in a new, ultra-thin, pre- mortared joint, which gives a distinctive, sleek and modern look to the facade. Weighing just 12.5kg per m2, VetaBric panels offer a lightweight alternative to brickwork and can be erected safely by trained construction site workers. While architects love the creative possibilities that VetaBric can bring to projects, contractors appreciate the speed at which the panels are hung – up to a third quicker than traditional bricklaying according to Pura’s commercial director James Butler. Commenting on the UK launch of VetaBric, he said: “Given the dearth of skilled labour and long lead times of bricks in the UK, solutions such as VetaBric are becoming much more popular with developers, architects and contractors. And despite being only 25mm thick, we’re finding the product to be dense and rigid – therefore very robust once installed on site. “A project we were recently involved with – a residential development in Thornton Heath, South London – shows how effective brick slip can be. The project was finished on time and within budget, thanks in some measure to the adoption of VetaBric.” Manufactured off-site, VetaBric supports the UK’s move towards modular construction methods. It can be fixed onto a wide range of substrates including masonry, lightweight steel or timber frames – all using the extensive range of fixings provided by Pura. Manufactured in Lille, northern France, VetaBric provides a joint free solution to facades, as any visible fixings are hidden by mortar applied once the panel is installed. To find out more about VetaBric, go to www.purafacades.co.uk.
In 2005, the Fire Safety Legislation was implemented. The rules put an emphasis on fire safety and risk management, and the new legislation lays out the responsibilities of an organisation’s management. The legislation lays out the duty to manage fire safety, and describes what Fire Safety elements should be covered in a risk assessment, as well as who is responsible for them and how regularly they should be updated. Fire risk assessments cover the property that you are in and any potential risk to your employees and to any service users that you may have. They look at the structure of the property, the people who use it, and the equipment that is in the building. For example, the risk assessment may consider: The Size and Layout of The Property In the event of a fire, how easy would it be for people to get out? Would people be able to evacuate quickly or would they get lost? Is there anywhere that could be particularly dangerous if, for example, someone were to get stuck in a specific room and the fire blocked the exit? If the lights went out when the fire broke out, would people be able to safely navigate their way to an exit? Are the fire exits clearly marked? These things are all important. It is not always easy for people to rectify problems identified in this part of the risk assessment, but it is important that there is a plan put in place and that measures are taken to mitigate the risk. Things Stored on the Property The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 covers a lot of topics relating to fire safety, including flammable substances, fire extinguishers, etc. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to worry about the substances that are stored on the property. If you have petrol, oil or other flammable substances then they must be stored in a way that minimises the fire risk. If you store other goods on the property, then you must make sure that the areas where people walk are kept clutter free and that fire doors are left unobstructed. One of the most common reasons for small businesses to fail fire inspections is that fire exits are used as a storage area, or fire doors are jammed. If you have electrical appliances, then you should make sure that they are in good working order, and tested regularly. Customers should be discouraged from plugging in electrical appliances of their own since their safety cannot always be verified. Things like heaters should be tested regularly and kept free from obstruction. Fire Extinguishers Fire blankets and fire extinguishers are essential and they should be properly installed and then inspected on a regular basis. The number and type of fire safety items that you will need depends on the size and layout of the property and the kind of fire that you have to worry about (e.g. fat, electrical, paper, etc). A good fire safety company will be able to give you advice on that sort of thing. Evacuation Another area that is important to consider when it comes to your fire risk assessment is the evacuation plan. If a fire breaks out, then who will sound the alarm (and what is the alarm). The fire brigade should be called, but are there any other organisations that may need notified, based on the location of the building? Where will staff and service users gather? Do you take registers of attendance or do head counts for the number of people in the building? In some properties it is not feasible to do this but if you run an office or a school then you should know how many people are in the property at that time. You should nominate an assembly point that is outside of the building and that will be safe for people to congregate. The assembly point should not be on a main road or somewhere that is going to put people in danger, and it should be somewhere that will allow you to do a headcount and ensure that people are all safe and unharmed. Educate your users about the importance of leaving the building quickly if the smoke alarms go off. Tell them not to collect their belongings or go back in until the fire brigade has raised the all clear. Fire Alarms Your risk assessment should include smoke alarms. Do you have enough of them? Are they positioned in areas where they will be able to give an early warning about fire? Are they inspected regularly to ensure that they are safe and working properly? Every company will have a risk assessment that looks slightly different. There is no right or wrong way to complete one, as long as it is a realistic and honest assessment of the risks of your property and a good faith effort to make the establishment safe.
Fork Lift Truck Association reveals ways companies and individuals can reward excellence (and be rewarded, too!) With preparations underway for the 2019 FLTA Annual Awards for Excellence, the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) is encouraging individuals and companies involved in lift truck operations to get involved. Now in its 25th year, the Awards is a firm fixture on the materials handling calendar – providing an opportunity for the industry to come together and celebrate those who are working to raise standards. FLTA chief executive Peter Harvey explains: “Because the Awards has been created by the industry and for the industry, it’s vital that our Awards represent every aspect of it… and, to do so, we need everyone involved: from operators and colleagues on the front line through to dealers, manufacturers and suppliers. “We’ve designed a number of routes for companies and individuals to get in on the action… whether they’re small operations or large corporations.” The Fork Lift Truck Association has identified the five most popular ways to take part. They are: Enter a product or service. Launched something special between 1st October 2017 and 30th September 2018? Then you could find yourself in line for an Archie statuette. Modelled on Archimedes, it’s the fork lift industry’s version of an Oscar. Categories include: Environment Ergonomics Safety Innovation Put forward an individual or team. There are also awards that look to honour companies or individuals who have done something special. While Dealer Member of the Year recognises the FLTA Member who embodies the Association’s values, the Safe Site Award, for owners and operators of forklifts, recognises those teams who have strived to make operations safer. In addition, there are individual Awards which recognise those changing the industry and/or the Association for the better, including: Lifetime Achievement, Services to the FLT Industry and Services to the FLTA. Awards nominations are open to anyone within the industry – not just members – and many previous FLTA winners have put themselves forward for an Award. Become a sponsor Staging an event of this scale would be impossible – without the unwavering support of Sponsors and Supporters. Peter Harvey adds: “These companies play a particularly prominent role throughout the event, as well as in pre and post event publicity. “Each year there are fresh opportunities to link your brand to the industry’s most prestigious and most publicised event.” Join the jury Introduced in 2016, the Awards Jury plays a significant role in ensuring the event’s integrity, fairness and integrity. Peter Harvey explains: “Over the years, we’ve had representatives from dealers, manufacturers, trainers and end users sit on this panel. Importantly, each of the 12-strong jury possesses in-depth understanding of lift truck operations – including the latest products and developments. “With so many different views present, it can make deliberations a challenge. But, because of this, we are confident that this group is equipped to review, assess and select our winners in key categories, such as Innovation.” Book a ticket Join the FLTA in celebrating the best in the industry, and network with dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and customers on Saturday 30th March 2019 at the International Centre, Telford. “And, if you are a Member,” adds Peter, “make sure you login to get a significant discount on the cost of attending.” Remember, the closing date for awards entries is the 30th September. Details on all the above are available on the FLTA website. The Fork Lift Truck Association is the UK’s independent authority on fork lift trucks. For more information, please visit www.fork-truck.org.uk or call 01635 277577.
3D Laser Mapping Ltd and GeoSLAM Ltd merge, creating a global market leader in mapping and monitoring. Leading UK laser scanning and monitoring companies 3D Laser Mapping Ltd and GeoSLAM Ltd have merged to create one of the world’s most innovative mobile mapping and monitoring technology providers. 3D Laser Mapping is a world leading geospatial technology supplier and innovator. Working alongside some of the world’s biggest mining companies, governments, universities, blue-chip firms and operators of highways, power lines and railways. 3D Laser Mapping helps its customers to capture and understand their world in 3D. GeoSLAM is a global market leader in 3D hand held mobile mapping technology solutions. Their unique “go-anywhere” technology is adaptable to all environments especially spaces that are indoor, underground or difficult to access, providing accurate 3D mobile mapping without the need for GPS. Graham Hunter, the founder of 3D Laser Mapping explains, “This merger will combine the best of the two leading organisations with strong global coverage. They both have very different skill sets with GeoSLAM specialising in global sales, marketing and distribution, whilst 3D Laser Mapping bringing advanced R&D capabilities. This will enable the new organisation to supply next generation leading products worldwide. The contribution of CSIRO since the formation of GeoSLAM in 2012, has been significant in creating the market for handheld mobile mapping and I look forward to strengthening our relationship through this merger”. Shareholders agreed to merge the businesses to take advantage of new world market opportunities, increased R&D capability and ensure greater market reach. Shareholders include Graham Hunter, the founder of 3D Laser Mapping and CSIRO’s Data61, Australia’s data innovation network, part of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia’s national science agency. Adrian Turner, CEO of CSIRO’s Data61 is equally supportive of merger, “We’re proud to have been a part of the GeoSLAM story so far and are looking forward to collaborating on its next chapter, providing data analytics and prediction capabilities to support its growth trajectory. The merger with 3D Laser Mapping will accelerate the business into the geospatial data analytics domain, which has potential to reinvent industries worldwide.” SLAM – Simultaneous, localisation and mapping technology was developed by the CSIRO to solve the problem of mobile mapping from an unknown location. The merger of the two companies will unify under one roof an extensive range of specialist personnel and expertise in the mobile mapping industry. The newly merged companies will trade as GeoSLAM Ltd, leveraging its global brand that has been developed over the past years. David Burton, CFO of GeoSLAM commented, “We are absolutely thrilled to be merging the companies and believe that the combined resources of these businesses will help us to exceed our level of service and support to global customers and dealers. We will continue working with our customers and dealers in the same way as we do now, but look forward to enhancing their experience by bringing together two innovative and ambitious organisations.’’ The new GeoSLAM has offices located in the UK, USA, Netherlands, Australia and South Africa. Details of the group’s activities to date can be found on the websites: www.3dlasermapping.com and www.geoslam.com.
Cabling leader AEI Cables is taking fire performance to new levels with its Total Fire Solutions range of products for the built environment. The development of its Firetec range of cables using the very latest in technology and science offers enhanced fire performance cabling, accessories and technical support from one source ensuring critical fire-safety circuits can continue to operate in the event of a real fire from 30 minutes up to 120 minutes. AEI Cables says it has listened to customers – with rising concerns at the number of fires in high-rise buildings in Europe and the Middle East - and developed a range of cabling which is future-proof. Stuart Dover, commercial manager for AEI Cables, said: “This development of this range of cabling supports the initiative to make our buildings safer and ensure systems can continue to operate in the event of a fire including fire alarms, voice alarms and emergency lighting circuits. “In a real fire situation, these cables will enable the fire and rescue services to find and evacuate people and help to protect property. At the same time, there is still evidence of non-approved cabling still coming onto the market, and we simply cannot compromise quality of these products being used in these applications.” The AEI Cables Total Fire Solutions’ package offers Mineral Insulated Cables (MIC), Firetec Enhanced or Firetec Power and the full range of accessories for all fire performance applications. Applications for Firetec include residential and commercial buildings, shopping malls, airports and protected buildings with a heritage ensuring that fire alarms, sprinkler systems, building monitoring and security systems can continue to operate in a fire. Successful installation of Firetec has included the Francis Crick Institute research centre in London, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, the White City complex in London and Meadowhall shopping complex, Sheffield. Categories of fire performance are made up of Categories 1 and 2 for means of escape for 30 minutes and then 60 minutes respectively, and these cables are tested in accordance with all relevant codes. Category 3 refers to power and control cables meeting the 120-minute test according to the relevant standards. Only Mineral Insulated Cable (MIC) or an enhanced cable meeting the requirements of BS7846 F120 will meet this criteria. AEI Cables serves key markets in the UK and worldwide including construction, industrial, fire protection, defence, mining and rail. For advice about the Total Fire Solutions service tel 0191 410 3111 or email enquiries@aeicables.co.uk. See www.aeicables.co.uk
Network Rail-approved supplier Scott Parnell has launched its latest product for the rail industry. The ARCOsizeZERO is an elevated troughing system for the easy installation of lightweight fibre optic cables which will form the backbone of the digital age. The new product is an extension of Scott Parnell’s existing ARCOSYSTEM, but with a clear focus on delivering increased capabilities to the industry’s communications network. ARCOsizeZERO is a flexible system made of corrosion-resistant GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) material. It comes in complete six metre pieces which are simply slid into position without the need for loose nuts and bolts – minimising installation time for on-site engineers and thereby reducing the risk from working trackside. Unlike traditional troughing, which is unnecessarily bulky for this application, the latest product is slim yet durable: offering the ideal solution for installation projects in congested areas or over difficult terrain. Troughs can be placed alongside railway lines or mounted to walls for tunnels and bridges, taking up far less space than normal cable-carrying channels. Established in 2012, Scott Parnell is a groundworks and civil engineering products specialist, and a Network Rail-approved supplier of the respected ARCOSYSTEM range of solutions. The organisation’s focus is on researching and creating innovative solutions for the rail sector. Commenting on the new product launch, founder Steve Parnell said: “As populations expand and passenger volumes increase, the supporting systems will demand better connectivity. Telecommunications capabilities will rely on the development of infrastructure to support a modern IP network for track-to-train communications. The ARCOsizeZERO is aimed at meeting these demands, by offering a flexible solution for the distribution of fibre optic cables. “We are delighted to launch this new product with a focus firmly on the future. The system enjoys the same benefits as our existing troughing products, but with the purpose of creating a fast and efficient communications network for both day-to-day rail operations and passenger connectivity.” ARCOsizeZERO can be utilised in conjunction with ARCOSYSTEM Size 1 and Size 2, ensuring the product line is ‘future-proof’ as additional cable capacity can be added after the original installation.
Energy Assets Group has appointed Jayson Whitaker to head-up its recently-launched Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) business – and to extend the utility offer to housebuilders, developers and contractors to include fibre-to-the-home. He joins one of Britain’s leading independent metering, asset management and utility network construction companies as Managing Director of Energy Assets Networks, which is licensed to own, adopt and operate ‘final mile’ electricity networks. The move coincides with Energy Assets’ plans to add fibre infrastructure to the Group’s network design and operator portfolio. Mr Whitaker brings with him considerable experience in the Competition in Connections (CiC) market, having worked in leadership roles for network operators and supply chain providers. Most recently, he was responsible for the start-up and strong organic growth of Utility Power Systems and Utility Fibre Systems, now part of Wolseley UK Infrastructure. He is also a well-known industry figure, sitting on the Ofgem CiC panel alongside DNOs, IDNOs and customer groups, and is active in the Metered Connections Customer Group, which lobbies for greater market place competition. Jayson Whitaker commented: “I am excited to be taking the lead at Energy Assets Networks at a time of considerable opportunity, given the scale of Britain’s house building plans and the structural changes underway in the UK utility market. With the projected growth in electric vehicles and increasing demand for fibre services, we need design solutions that will future-proof our local networks, embracing the technological advances that will drive operational efficiency.” Since its launch earlier this year, Energy Assets’ electricity network business has grown strongly through partnerships with independent utility construction contractors and residential and commercial developers, thanks to innovations in asset-based finance and in network design, compliance and management. Colin Lynch, Chief Executive Officer of Energy Assets Group, commented: “We are delighted that Jayson will be leading our IDNO and Fibre business. He brings a demonstrable track record of delivering organic growth, which combined with his industry insight and prominence in stakeholder relationships creates exciting opportunities for our network asset expansion across Britain.” www.energyassets.co.uk
Rising land price over the last few years has added a positive inertia to the development of townships and residential complexes in the major cities and metros around the globe. These vertical residences which are often offered by companies and factories to their employees and workers are taking the place of a lucrative alternative in congested living situations. The high-quality amenities offered by these apartments to its residents also serve as another important factor adding to its demand. Today we shall take a look at the best amenities which are provided by the housing accommodations to its residents. Spacious building designs which facilitate multilevel vehicle parking are much favored. Reserved parking space for guests is another practical requirement which should not be missed. Adequate space should be available for conducting business and social gatherings such as a multipurpose or community hall. Some other conveniences which you need to look out for are pre-planned vehicle-free plazas, green rooms for relaxation and well-planned building layout paving the way for maximum access to scenic landscapes and natural light. Our hectic lives filled with stress pertaining to both work and personal lives making it essential to engage in sports and recreation activities for maintaining a proper balance. Gliding in the skating rink or opting for a quick game of table tennis can do miracles in rejuvenating your soul. A multipurpose court or sports arena can include indoor games such as fuss-ball, carom, squash, pool and a large number of other options. Outdoor recreational provisions in the backyard sport court can include basketball, football, badminton, cricket, etc. A hobby room or amphitheater can serve as pure bliss for the residents who wish to engage in cultural activities such as theatre, singing, dancing or poetry. If you are a voracious reader, then make sure that a reading room or library facility is there in the accommodation provided by your company. Coupled with such recreational facilities, you can easily discover the finer side of life amidst the rat race of maintaining your supremacy both at work and play. Can anything be more convenient than purchasing the items of your daily needs from the departmental store which is located just around the corner? We bet not, and that is why it is essential to ensure if the accommodation has a departmental store to cater to your requirements round the clock. The additional value might be added with the presence of provisions for car washing, energy-efficient lobby lights, solar panels to ensure running hot water, etc. Health conscious buyers are bound to look for swimming pools, yoga centers, meditation spaces, spa, cycling and jogging tracks and shaded walkways while moving in an accommodation provided by their company. These amenities can have a tranquilizing effect on our tired and stressed mind by helping us be at peace with our surroundings. Families having small children will be on the lookout for amenities such as sandpit areas, toddler play areas, kid’s swimming pools, etc. in the complex. Real estate experts, however, advise families having kids or infants to look beyond the boundaries of the complex as well. They need to ensure if adequate schools, day-care centers, colleges, and hospitals are present in the vicinity. If you have some senior citizens in your family, then make sure that your housing complex has structural aids for the elderly such as benches and ramps. Easy accessibility to healthcare facilities also becomes a topmost priority in such cases such as the presence of a medical section in the department store within your complex. A modern apartment ensures that the buildings don’t share walls so that you can make the most of your privacy without sacrificing on the important aspects of ventilation and free air flow. Also, make sure that your building has adequate power backup so that you don’t have to take the stairs in the case of a power failure.