A fire safety solution from Siemens for the Irish Prison Service (IPS) is providing protection for inmates and staff across eight prisons, significantly reducing the chances of false alarms while saving valuable resources. The IPS, operating under the Department of Justice, is a crucial part of the criminal justice system.
Construction contract awards hit their lowest point this year, tumbling 11% from April to just £5.1 billion – now £1.5 billion below the 2024 average – adding further strain to government efforts to accelerate housing and infrastructure delivery. The Commercial & Retail sector took the sharpest hit in May, plunging
Dutch kitchen manufacturer, Keller Kitchens, is well known for its pioneering approach to sustainability with parent company, DKG, awarded Level 5, the highest, on the CO₂ Performance Ladder in 2024. With substantial multi-faceted investments that ran into many tens of €Millions, DKG operates a continuous programme of investment to maintain the Group’s industry-leading approach
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has announced the topping out of Crown Place, Birmingham – a landmark 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation scheme for client Crown Student Living. The milestone ceremony –
Jewson has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the On The Tools Awards 2025, renewing its commitment to recognising and championing the UK’s skilled tradespeople. The event, hosted later this year in Birmingham, is set to honour outstanding contributions across a range of professions that keep the country running.
Smart Construction, the digital arm of Japanese machinery manufacturer Komatsu, has reported a 44 percent adoption increase in its software as a service (SaaS) technology from FY2023 to FY2024, highlighting a rising demand for software in construction. The business, which creates solutions to improve productivity and efficiencies across mixed construction sectors,
NHS Property Services (NHSPS) has released a new NHS Estate Optimisation Guide to help NHS leaders and estate managers navigate one of the most pressing challenges in modern healthcare: making the most of the places and spaces that support patient care. As the NHS continues to evolve to meet the changing needs
Elliott Group, a long-established name in Construction and Fit Out, has officially launched its dedicated UK Fit Out Division, marking a significant step in the Group’s ongoing expansion across the UK. With a strong pipeline of live projects on site and in PCSA, this move reinforces Elliott Group’s long term
CONSTRUCTION has completed at Molson Coors Brewing Company’s new UK headquarters in Burton-on-Trent. Delivered by main contractor Clegg Food Projects, the project successfully transformed the former historic site, which included the construction of a modern atrium link building and a new office block, into a state-of-the-art 10,300m² facility to support Molson
Flat roofing specialist BMI Icopal has launched TorchSafe TA, a flame-free bituminous waterproofing system that removes the need for naked flames during the application process, reducing fire risk during application compared to traditional roof installation methods. In line with CDM (Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015), designers must consider fire
A fire safety solution from Siemens for the Irish Prison Service (IPS) is providing protection for inmates and staff across eight prisons, significantly reducing the chances of false alarms while saving valuable resources. The IPS, operating under the Department of Justice, is a crucial part of the criminal justice system. It is responsible for the safe and secure custody of individuals who are sentenced to prison, held on remand, or detained for immigration-related matters. As a trusted partner for more than three decades, Siemens has consistently delivered comprehensive fire safety solutions and lifecycle support to this valued customer. This included the recent completion of a significant upgrade of their life safety systems by implementing advanced detection systems and the deployment of Siemens innovative Building X Fire Manager platform with cloud-enabled capabilities. New technologies and services have resulted in enhanced operational practices and increased protection for staff, inmates and the Siemens engineering team. In addition, the investment in digital services is improving system uptime and enabling data-driven decision making. Smart fire safety technologies The upgrade has been engineered to address the specific demands of the IPS. Smart Disturbance Free Testing (DFT) Sinteso detectors are adept at differentiating between genuine fire sources and deceptive phenomena such as steam or dust, ensuring precise detection and significantly reducing the chances of false alarms. These intelligent devices also perform regular self-diagnostics, verifying their functionality and maintaining peak performance, with automatic reporting of any issues and analysis of test results, either on-site or remotely. For the prison environment, this translates to significant practical benefits, as the need to access restricted, sensitive areas is substantially reduced through remote testing capabilities, while hard-to-reach locations such as high atriums can be managed more efficiently. Data-driven decisions To facilitate immediate investigation of any fire incident, authorised prison personnel can now monitor live the status of any fire event from any location via the new Sinteso Connect app. This enables rapid situation assessment and early decision-making, including determining whether evacuation is necessary and how to best manage a planned, phased evacuation, a particularly important factor given the significant disruption invloved in evacuating a prison. Further efficiencies are being achieved with the introduction of the new automated eLogbook system, which automatically records all fire-related events and interactions. This digital approach eliminates the need for manual logging, providing authorised officers with instant access to comprehensive system records from any device, while ensuring accurate, time-stamped documentation of all system activities. To enable comprehensive monitoring across multiple prison locations, Siemens has implemented Building X with Fire Manager. This solution provides full visibility of the status of all sites on a single dashboard, offering access to both real-time and historical data. Designed to support the IPS by delivering greater operational insights, it enhances maintenance planning, execution, and reporting. Customer gains The IPS is able to take advantage of new corrective and preventive service models, alongside continuous system performance monitoring and checks. Remote fault interrogation allows issues to be diagnosed, resolved, and restored without always requiring an on-site response. In cases where on-site intervention is necessary, engineers arrive fully equipped with detailed system diagnostics and historical data, significantly reducing problem resolution time and improving first-time fix rates. The integration of smart, self-testing detectors combined with remote servicing capabilities has produced significant operational efficiency gains for the IPS, automated diagnostics have reduced manual inspections, remote troubleshooting has eliminated unnecessary site visits and real-time performance monitoring is enabling predictive maintenance. A mandatory Health & Safety protocol means that officers must always escort contractors during service visits, involving considerable resource. A pilot test has revealed the extent of the efficiency gains: a total of 76 escort days have been saved, enabling valuable time to be redirected to core security duties. This new approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also maintains rigorous safety standards while significantly reducing resource demands on security personnel. Governor of Works for the Irish Prison Service, Rónán Dunning, commented, – “The integration of new digital systems and services represents not only our commitment to technological excellence but also our dedication to deliver a sustainable, future-proof safety infrastructure across our organisation.” Joe Walsh, Head of Siemens Smart Infrastructure summarised the project – “Through our strategic partnership with the Irish Prison Service, we have engineered a holistic fire safety solution that not only addresses their multifaceted requirements and supports the complexities of their operational environment, but one that is also delivering measurable outcomes.” For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure – Buildings www.siemens.co.uk/cerberusFor further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please seewww.siemens.com/smart-infrastructure Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction contract awards hit their lowest point this year, tumbling 11% from April to just £5.1 billion – now £1.5 billion below the 2024 average – adding further strain to government efforts to accelerate housing and infrastructure delivery. The Commercial & Retail sector took the sharpest hit in May, plunging 68% to just £290 million – the lowest monthly value in over a year. Infrastructure also suffered, recording its weakest performance since November, down 26% to less than £1 billion. Notably, the Coppermill Lane Pumping Station & Water Treatment Works was the largest project, accounting for nearly half of the sector’s total. Residential awards slipped 10% to £1.7 billion. While this is an improvement compared to February and March, it remains below both the 2024 and 2025 averages. The £400 million Bollo Lane development in London was the highlight for this sector. The East of England endured its worst month for contract awards in over a year, with values plunging 75% from the 2024 average. Alarmingly, only seven projects exceeded £10 million, and none topped £30 million. Ed Griffiths, head of business and client analytics at Barbour ABI, commented: “The spending review was widely seen as good news for construction but the backdrop is that it’s been another disappointing month for contract awards. The industry continues to grapple with economic uncertainty and regulatory hurdles that are delaying many schemes. The project pipeline remains relatively strong, but these barriers need to be addressed to unlock progress – although it’s possible that meaningful growth may not materialize until 2026. “There are potential bright spots ahead in green energy and data centres, which continue to drive demand for transmission infrastructure. Infrastructure hopes may be buoyed by the Chancellor’s recent announcement of a £15 billion investment, particularly focused in the North of England.” Planning approvals also fell in May, declining 15% to £8.2 billion – the lowest month so far this year but still 5% higher than the 2024 average. Meanwhile, Residential planning approvals rose to £3.2 billion, aligning with the 2024 average. And the overall value of planning applications nosedived 48% from March to £7.1 billion. This steep drop is partly due to the completion of two large projects in Infrastructure and Medical & Healthcare at the end of March, but all sectors have been subdued. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Dutch kitchen manufacturer, Keller Kitchens, is well known for its pioneering approach to sustainability with parent company, DKG, awarded Level 5, the highest, on the CO₂ Performance Ladder in 2024. With substantial multi-faceted investments that ran into many tens of €Millions, DKG operates a continuous programme of investment to maintain the Group’s industry-leading approach to sustainability. The initiatives align with the Dutch government’s ambition to achieve a fully circular economy by 2050 which requires thousands of companies, large and small, to transition to a new way of working. An initiative which illustrates Dutch prowess in the sustainability arena is illustrated here. The province of North Brabant has signed a Green Deal with ‘Werklandschappen van de Toekomst’ (Work Landscapes of the Future) to make business parks more sustainable. A coalition of more than 30 partners, businesses, entrepreneurs, research and educational institutions, governments and civil organisations, will work together to transform ten business parks in the Netherlands over the next four years with the target being 1000 sites over the next nine years. DKG/Keller is a key partner and Tim Spann, UK Head of Sales explains more “Three working landscapes are planned for North Brabant; our factory is located here in Bergen Op Zoom. Business parks should become work landscapes: areas where there is space for nature and people on sites that are resilient to damage from flooding, drought and heat, where employees are happier, more productive and healthier. We want to set an example for the whole world and initiatives will include energy transition, material use, water saving, environmental quality, health and safety, mobility, innovation and growth. It’s what we do anyway so it made sense to be one of the project’s leaders.” For more details visit: https://www.kellerkitchens.com/en/csr For further information on Keller Kitchens, please visit www.kellerkitchens.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has announced the topping out of Crown Place, Birmingham – a landmark 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation scheme for client Crown Student Living. The milestone ceremony – attended by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal – celebrated the topping out of Crown Place Birmingham which is now the tallest student accommodation building in the city. Representatives from Winvic, Crown Student Living, Corvette Capital, student housing brand and operator Yugo and funders Beaufort Capital, attended the ceremony, which took place on Level 32 of the tower, celebrating the development reaching its highest structural point and solidifying it as an iconic addition to Birmingham’s skyline. Attendees from the design consultants, Birmingham universities, industry consultants and members of the local community were also invited to visit the development and take a tour of the marketing suite. Winvic is partnering with engineer, Meinhardt, and architect, ECE Westworks to deliver the £85 million, 814-bed student scheme on Lancaster Street, conveniently located near Birmingham city centre and within easy reach of Aston University, Birmingham City University, and the University of Birmingham. Crown Place which will be operated by Yugo, Europe’s biggest student housing provider, will offer a variety of studios, cluster flats and duplexes, alongside over 13,000 sq ft of extensive amenity spaces. Standout features of the accommodation include a sky lounge, cinema room, karaoke room, private dining areas and a gym – setting new standards for student living in the city. The scheme will complete in December 2025, with Yugo preparing to welcome students from January 2026. Since breaking ground, the project has led the way in innovation with this milestone following Winvic’s successful UK-first deployment of Skyline Cockpit – a remote tower crane control system operated from ground level to improve safety and operational efficiency. Integrated advanced technology and sustainable practices were implemented across the project, including the use of HP SitePrint robotic layout and GAMMA AR tools for enhanced precision, as well as the AmpD Enertainer battery system to cut diesel use by 7,645 litres weekly, supporting greener operations. Winvic prioritised social value at the Crown Place scheme, supporting local communities through employment, education, and charity. Achieving outstanding CCS scores of 49 and a Silver National Site Award, the team has delivered over 2,900 weeks of employment to Birmingham residents into new roles on site. Since starting the project, 13 students and apprentices have been supported at Crown Place including T Level placements, Year In Industry students and graduates. The opportunities provided has enabled them to develop and grow their academic and practical skills with support from the site team. Initiatives include a Magical Santa’s Grotto for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, canal clean-up efforts, and charity events raising over £4,800. Educational partnerships with Aston University, Walsall College, BMET and South and City College Birmingham, plus local schools have seen the site being used to inspire the next generation, delivering interactive workshops and showcasing the newest innovations. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction, said: “Topping out Crown Place Birmingham is a proud moment for all involved. This project is not only Winvic’s tallest scheme to date, but one of our most innovative – where new cutting-edge technologies have been at the heart of this project resulting in industry and business firsts – driving enhanced efficiency, safety, precision and programme certainty. “The quality of the build is testament to the collaborative approach between Crown Student Living, Yugo, our supply chain, and our exceptional Winvic team and the topping out ceremony is a celebration of the incredible progress made. We now look forward to continuing works at this industry-leading development ready for practical completion in December.” Alan Pulver, Director at Crown Student Living, said: “This is a significant milestone not just for Crown Student Living, but for the city of Birmingham as a whole. Set to redefine student living with its exceptional design, amenities, and location, reaching the topping out stage at Crown Place has been a proud moment, made possible by the collaboration and expertise of our project partners. We’re excited to see this flagship development come to life and to welcome students to a truly elevated experience in 2026.” Robin Moorcroft, Senior Vice President – Commercial, Yugo, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the launch of Crown Place Birmingham, a space that represents the high-quality student accommodation Yugo is proud to manage. “At Yugo, we go beyond housing; we’re committed to creating vibrant, sustainable, and supportive communities where students can truly thrive. Crown Place brings this vision to life with stunning views of the Birmingham skyline, dedicated study areas, and generous communal spaces designed to foster connection and belonging. “By working with institutional-grade partners like Crown we’re able to invest and deliver operational excellence at scale – benefiting students and clients across both existing and emerging markets. We’re particularly excited to welcome students to Crown Place when it opens its doors in January.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jewson has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the On The Tools Awards 2025, renewing its commitment to recognising and championing the UK’s skilled tradespeople. The event, hosted later this year in Birmingham, is set to honour outstanding contributions across a range of professions that keep the country running. As headline sponsor, Jewson also supports the Tradesperson of the Year award: a top-tier title selected from the winners of all trade categories. This award recognises the very best of the best: someone who not only excels in their craft but also makes a meaningful impact on the industry and wider community. Samuel Johnson, Head of Marketing – Operations, STARK Building Materials UK (Jewson) said: “Jewson is thrilled to return as headline sponsor of the On The Tools Awards for the third year running. These awards shine a light on the incredible talent, resilience, and innovation that runs through the UK trade. At Jewson, we’ve proudly stood shoulder to shoulder with tradespeople since 1836; whether you’re just starting out, or decades into your craft, we’re here to back you. Partnering with On The Tools is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate those who go above and beyond in our industry, and we can’t wait to recognise the people who make the trade what it is.” The On The Tools Awards are more than just an evening of celebration; they’re a platform for real recognition. Finalists receive national exposure, a place in the spotlight at a prestigious awards ceremony, and the opportunity to be celebrated by peers and the wider industry. Winners receive a £1,000 cash prize or voucher equivalent, a custom Barry Head trophy, and career-boosting visibility across On The Tools’ channels. Sponsorship of the awards is a way for industry partners to visibly back the trades and stand alongside the people who power the sector. It also highlights a brand’s role in supporting excellence and progress within construction, both on and off site. Lee Wilcox, Co-founder and CEO of On The Tools, said: “It’s brilliant to have Jewson back as headline sponsor. Their continued support speaks volumes about their dedication to the trade: not just through the vital role they play in keeping sites running, but in celebrating the people who make this industry what it is. With their backing, we’re once again ready to give the recognition tradespeople in the UK truly deserve.” Award Categories Tradespeople can be entered into awards in the following categories: And many more. See the full list of categories at http://www.onthetoolstv/awards Nominate yourself or a tradesperson you know at www.onthetoolstv/awards. Contact enquiries@onthetoolsgroup.com about sponsorship opportunities. With thanks to the 2025 On The Tools Awards sponsors and supporters: Band of Builders, BAXI, CEF, City Plumbing, Construction Sport, Crown, Glow-worm, Howdens, Jewson, and SIG Roofing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Smart Construction, the digital arm of Japanese machinery manufacturer Komatsu, has reported a 44 percent adoption increase in its software as a service (SaaS) technology from FY2023 to FY2024, highlighting a rising demand for software in construction. The business, which creates solutions to improve productivity and efficiencies across mixed construction sectors, also doubled its headcount and announced its excavator guidance products are now compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands. A key driver of Komatsu Smart Construction’s growth has been its focus on improving and refining its already popular technologies. Following a 30 percent increase in users across its Remote product, the brand has announced a license for the cloud-based solution will be included as standard with all purchases of Komatsu-branded guidance and control systems, including the newly released PC220LCi-12 dubbed ‘the most advanced’ excavator ever. Smart Construction’s Remote solution allows users to access and control both Komatsu and non-Komatsu machine guidance and control system monitors remotely. Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction explains: “We’re proud to work with as many people as possible across the industry to develop our tools to be even more effective. Our users don’t just use our tools, they shape them. “As European construction continues to embrace digital transformation, we’re committed to accelerating that progress and making jobsite management more sustainable, connected and accessible than ever. “The last financial year has been pivotal for the team, with our investment into advancing our own tools growing and multiple new editions of solutions launching, we’re extremely proud of our achievements.” Additional product development successes from the brand include the relaunch of its pivotal drone surveying assistance solution, Edge, now in its second major hardware edition since the launch, and its seventh version of software. Edge uses a custom-built AI algorithm to automatically remove buildings, equipment and vegetation from the 3D point cloud it processes from the drone footage, delivering a clear, accurate, 3D representation of the site. The tool processes high quality and precise data from the job site, providing the user with a direct way of calculating job site progress quickly and identifying any challenges or unforeseen considerations. Bart adds: “At Komatsu Smart Construction, we’re also prioritising partnerships, connecting with other technology to create truly brand agnostic solutions that support the whole industry. Last year the team launched a new version of the Smart Construction Fleet solution, overhauling the user interface and upgrading the algorithms to improve accuracy and user experience.” Komatsu Smart Construction solutions are available through a community of distributors, which is continuously growing, meaning the brand can gain access to unbiased customer feedback and use it to shape future upgrades. To find out more please visit: smartconstruction.io Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NHS Property Services (NHSPS) has released a new NHS Estate Optimisation Guide to help NHS leaders and estate managers navigate one of the most pressing challenges in modern healthcare: making the most of the places and spaces that support patient care. As the NHS continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of communities, the ability to deliver care in the right environments is becoming just as critical as funding – and is something which the Government’s much anticipated NHS 10-year Health Plan is expected to touch on. From high street drop-in centres to digitally enabled diagnostic hubs, the future of healthcare delivery depends on transforming existing spaces and creating new ones that are flexible, sustainable, and fit for purpose. Simon Taylor, Director Estates Policy, Strategy & Capital Projects at NHSPS, explained: “Estate optimisation is now critical to meeting patient need and NHS reform. This guide provides NHS leaders with the right practical steps to unlock the full potential of their estate, using the expertise and knowledge of the property experts across NHSPS and the wider system.” The newly released guide developed by experts at NHSPS outlines a clear, flexible framework for: It also includes expert insights from across NHSPS teams and partners, with contributions from Jenny O’Donnell, Infrastructure, Capital, Estates and Sustainability Lead at NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB, and Vissy Plati, Senior Designer at Ryder Architecture. “Simply better understanding current space utilisation can often lead to transformative estate opportunities,” Simon added. “In some cases, buildings thought to be in constant use are only 40% utilised. In others, strategic lease negotiations or repurposing office space can unlock significant savings to fund future care delivery.” The NHS Estate Optimisation Guide is now available to NHS leaders and estate professionals, offering a timely and practical resource to support the ambitions of the forthcoming NHS 10-Year Health Plan. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Elliott Group, a long-established name in Construction and Fit Out, has officially launched its dedicated UK Fit Out Division, marking a significant step in the Group’s ongoing expansion across the UK. With a strong pipeline of live projects on site and in PCSA, this move reinforces Elliott Group’s long term commitment to the UK market, founded on almost 100 years of proven delivery. The launch follows continued success on major UK fit out projects, including the comprehensive refurbishment of The Belfry Hotel and Golf Resort, home of the Ryder Cup, which included the Ryder Grill, Brabazon Bar, and guest bedrooms. Elliott Group is also nearing completion on the K West Hotel in London, a full strip out and redevelopment, transforming the property into a high-spec, four-star hotel. Our Fit-Out Director Shaun Atkinson based in London, added; “This isn’t about entering a new market—it’s about scaling up one we already know, we’ve consistently delivered complex projects to a high standard. Now we’re sharpening our focus with a team and structure dedicated solely to fit out in the UK.” Eddie Campion UK Managing Director added; The new division operates from 39 Moreland Street, London, and is focused on fitout in the commercial office, healthcare, retail, conservation, sports facilities and hospitality sectors. Alongside our FF&E business Total Fitout, the synergies for our clients are compelling and offer our clients access to a fully integrated service, from structural reconfiguration through to finished and furnished interiors, all delivered under one roof where demand for quality, flexibility, and speed of delivery remains paramount. “We’ve built our reputation on consistency and results,” said Noel Elliott, CEO of Elliott Group UK. “Our UK fit out work has followed that same standard. With Shaun leading this next phase, we’re focused on scaling our presence and delivering meaningful value to developers, landlords, and asset managers.” For more on Elliott Group Fit Out Division, see: https://www.elliottgroup.com/uk/our-work/fit-out-division/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CONSTRUCTION has completed at Molson Coors Brewing Company’s new UK headquarters in Burton-on-Trent. Delivered by main contractor Clegg Food Projects, the project successfully transformed the former historic site, which included the construction of a modern atrium link building and a new office block, into a state-of-the-art 10,300m² facility to support Molson Coors’ growing operations across the UK and Ireland. Works got underway in the summer of 2023, with the project team working closely with Molson Coors and BHB Architects. The conservation of the historic structure while integrating contemporary building services to meet 21st-century regulations required careful planning and expertise. The team also ensured that the new additions complemented the character of the area, reflecting Burton upon Trent’s deep brewing heritage. “We’re extremely proud to have been involved in this project,” said Oliver Jenkins, business development manager at Clegg Food Projects. “Our team worked closely with the entire project team to preserve the building’s heritage while delivering a modern, sustainable workplace. “The new HQ not only cements Molson Coors’ rich legacy in the brewing industry but also reflects the company’s commitment to the future.” The new HQ will provide office and amenity spaces for more than 500 staff members. Key features include a striking double-height entrance and reception area, alongside a contemporary glazed atrium with social breakout spaces. The design incorporates formal and informal meeting rooms cantered around a tap bar, reflecting the company’s branding and product lines. A large staff food and drink facility has also been added, along with improved car parking, EV charging and cycle storage. Generous landscaping enhancements will further enrich the external environment, providing a welcoming and functional space for all employees. Molson Coors Brewing Company is the UK arm of Molson Coors Beverage Company, the brewer behind some of the biggest beer and cider brands including Carling, Madrí Excepcional, Coors, Rekorderlig, and Aspall Cyder. For further information visit www.cleggfoodprojects.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Flat roofing specialist BMI Icopal has launched TorchSafe TA, a flame-free bituminous waterproofing system that removes the need for naked flames during the application process, reducing fire risk during application compared to traditional roof installation methods. In line with CDM (Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015), designers must consider fire risks during design and specification. The TorchSafe TA self-adhesive system supports compliance by removing the need for gas torches during installation, reducing on-site fire risk, and enhancing safety during installation. Simon Ashworth, Portfolio Manager for flat roofing at Icopal, said: “We’re seeing a growing demand for flame-free bitumen solutions because of the reduced risk to building fabric and worker safety, two factors specifiers need to consider to adhere to CDM Regulations. “TorchSafe TA is designed to meet this growing demand, while still providing the quality Icopal is known for. We back this up with a guarantee of up to 25 years*. In addition, our Approved Contractor network ensures that installers have been fully trained in the relevant application techniques.” TorchSafe TA can only be installed by companies that are part of Icopal’s Approved Contractor schemes, such as IMA. A flat roof installed by an IMA contractor to Icopal’s agreed specification can be guaranteed to provide peace of mind for up to 25 years. The TorchSafe TA system incorporates products featuring Syntan, an acrylic based coating which is used as a substitute for sand, reducing the weight of the membrane**. The new waterproofing system can achieve classification to BROOF(t4) achieving the highest possible external fire performance for roofs. The TorchSafe TA System incorporates products currently holding BBA certification (09/4645 – Product Sheets 2 & 4 & 23/6935 – Product Sheet 3). TorchSafe TA offers a practical flame-free solution for flat roofing, designed to support safe and efficient installation. For further information including technical details visit https://www.bmigroup.com/uk/icopal-flat-roofing-systems-and-services/bituminous-waterproofing-and-roofing/torchsafe-ta/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
