Business : Testing, Certification & Business Tools News
Wrekin achieves Investors In People accreditation

Wrekin achieves Investors In People accreditation

WREKIN Products has proudly achieved the We Invest In People standard accreditation from Investors in People, marking its commitment to staff welfare and organisational standards. This milestone involved the specialist civils provider working with Investors in People to evaluate and improve its procedures and personnel. A detailed report was produced,

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BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

Masterframe Windows Ltd, founded in 1988, is an established UK manufacturer of bespoke, high-quality PVC-U sash windows. The company has maintained a 27-year relationship with the British Board of Agrément (BBA). Masterframe first sought third party certification from the BBA in 1997 and obtained Agrément certification for its windows. Since

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AIM's improved OSCB and WCB ranges meet rainscreen fire safety challenges

AIM’s improved OSCB and WCB ranges meet rainscreen fire safety challenges

Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire

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Nemetschek Group Achieves ISO 27001 Certification Across Organisation, Reinforcing Commitment to Data Security and Customer Trust

Nemetschek Group Achieves ISO 27001 Certification Across Organisation, Reinforcing Commitment to Data Security and Customer Trust

The Nemetschek Group, a leading global provider of software solutions for the AEC/O (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation) and media industries, today announced that it has successfully attained the ISO 27001 certification across the Group. The important certification covers the development, implementation, and maintenance of software solutions across the Architecture,

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Encouraging signs but big decisions still to come

Encouraging signs but big decisions still to come

The Passivhaus Trust responds to the Scottish Government’s Scottish Passivhaus Equivalent announcement The Scottish Government yesterday laid amendments to the Building (Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations to enable the implementation of the Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard. This meets the commitment made by Ministers in December 2022 to give effect to Alex Rowley

Read More »
Report proposes ‘Five Cs’ to reduce UK’s road mortality rate

Report proposes ‘Five Cs’ to reduce UK’s road mortality rate

A new report by road marking and highway safety specialists, WJ Group, has highlighted the challenges and potential opportunities for improving road safety and reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK’s road network. Released to coincide with Brake’s Road Safety Week, WJ Group’s new report,

Read More »
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF).  This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than

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New best practice casebook highlights use of technology to tackle construction errors

New best practice casebook highlights use of technology to tackle construction errors

The 2024 Technology Report from the Get It Right Initiative published today shows how the construction and technology sectors are innovating together to improve productivity, quality, safety and sustainability. The report features multi-million pound construction projects including HS2’s Colne Valley viaduct, San Francisco international airport and London’s Western Yard’s development.

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

Business : Testing, Certification & Business Tools News

Wrekin achieves Investors In People accreditation

Wrekin achieves Investors In People accreditation

WREKIN Products has proudly achieved the We Invest In People standard accreditation from Investors in People, marking its commitment to staff welfare and organisational standards. This milestone involved the specialist civils provider working with Investors in People to evaluate and improve its procedures and personnel. A detailed report was produced, highlighting strengths and offering recommendations for improvement. Following the report, significant changes were implemented with the help of consultants, Astrum Associates, which has modernised the HR and team management processes completely. These updates included enhancements to onboarding, welfare services, and structured career progression meetings. Having assessed more than 50,000 businesses during its 30-plus years of operation, Investors in People is a trusted, independent, and internationally recognised body which evaluates businesses based on their commitment to employee wellbeing and gives critical recommendations for improvement. The Wrekin team celebrated their achievement by having the plaque unveiled at an internal ceremony with a specially made cake for all staff to share. Driving the effort was Wrekin’s head of HR and senior accountant Mel Kinsey, who described the accreditation as a ‘worthwhile recognition of the team’s hard work paying off’. She said: “I’ve been with Wrekin for a long period of time, joining when the company was only small. Now that we have grown in size, it is rewarding to be putting measures in place to ensure people are having a positive working experience and no one is overlooked. I’m passionate about improving people’s work lives and I’ve championed this initiative for some time. “It was vital to make these changes company-wide, encouraging a culture where everyone contributes to building and maintaining the great team spirit we have. The response has been fantastic, with colleagues embracing the opportunity to grow and support one another. “People need to feel supported, included, and respected. Thanks to our work with Astrum and Investors in People, we’ve made significant progress in these areas. However, this just the beginning as we are now aiming for gold accreditation and even greater improvements. At Wrekin, our people are important to us and we’re committed to continued growth.” To learn more about Wrekin and its culture, visit: www.wrekinproducts.com/about-us Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

Masterframe Windows Ltd, founded in 1988, is an established UK manufacturer of bespoke, high-quality PVC-U sash windows. The company has maintained a 27-year relationship with the British Board of Agrément (BBA). Masterframe first sought third party certification from the BBA in 1997 and obtained Agrément certification for its windows. Since then, the company has worked with the BBA to ensure conformity, consistency and that their unique and patented sash window frames meet high-quality standards. Following the initial certification in 1997, Masterframe has maintained its Agrément Certificate to uphold these high standards, even as the company introduces product lifecycle changes, innovations, and process updates. To ensure compliance and quality, as part of the Agrément maintenance process, Masterframe receives two visits from the BBA to its premises per year for, audits and inspections. As a result, the company and its employees have maintained a strong focus on quality in their manufacturing processes, delivery and installation of their products for its high-end customer base and its expectations. The Masterframe PVC-U sash windows provide a unique alternative to traditional timber frames, offering a traditional look and feel while delivering all the benefits of a modern system. All the window frames are designed in-house and feature unique and patented technology. The Masterframe windows feature putty-line finishes, deep sills, vacuum glazing with 10mm cavity units. Although the glazing appears single glazed, it has a 1.2u value and includes all the benefits of double-glazing. The window frames look unobtrusive and offer sound proofing benefits. Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe Windows Ltd, who works closely with the BBA team explained, “We recognise that the industry needs third party certification, it provides valuable assurance and trust to our customer base that what they are buying, performs as we claim. Certification can be perceived as being expensive and time-consuming, but we are committed to quality and want to maintain our standards within the market, so we see it as an important investment. We also recognise that BBA certification enhances our credibility when tendering for large commercial contracts.” The BBA Maintenance Process The team at Masterframe began the Certification process with the BBA in 1997, seeking third-party certification and testing. Masterframe chose the BBA due to their rigorous testing procedures, high standards and recognition within the industry. With expert guidance and advice on best practice, the team has worked with the BBA for many years to maintain and substantiate their claims to help demonstrate confidence in their products and assure their customers. Throughout Masterframe’s long relationship with the BBA their Technical and Compliance Director, Ray Rabett, who has been with the company for some 30 years, has continuously developed and introduced new innovative elements to the frames. These enhancements include improved aesthetics, increased longevity, and upgraded thermal performance and dimensional specifications to meet the evolving demands of their loyal customer base and changing market trends. As part of the BBA Agrément Certificate maintenance process, Masterframe’s Agrément Certificate is reviewed and updated in-line with these changes. The BBA maintenance process also ensures that Masterframe is aware of any new standards and changes in legislation, and that their products remain fit-for-purpose when things change. Ray Rabett added, “The process ensures all elements of our windows remain fit for purpose, even down to the screws being tested for conformance to the original quality plan. Our welding temperatures and tolerances are tested, checked, and scrutinized in great detail. We are 100% committed to both product and service excellence and remain completely focused on ensuring that customers receive products that exceed their expectations and are built to last. By submitting to this regular third-party testing by a well-renowned organization, we are, in a sense, offering a concrete guarantee of this ongoing commitment.” Quality, Credibility and Customer Confidence The BBA Agreement Certificate and its process clearly demonstrates that Masterframe windows continue to meet UK building regulations and have been assessed and tested to provide durability for the lifetime of each window frame they produce, provided they have been installed and maintained in accordance with the details contained in the certificate. By maintaining Certification in line with the BBA’s guidelines, Masterframe Windows Ltd has greater insight into changing industry regulations to ensure quality, credibility and customer confidence. Carol further added, “Working with the BBA has enhanced our company and employee mindset to continually strive for excellence without compromising on quality. We would highly recommend the BBA to others if they want to assure their customers that their product performs as claimed.” To learn more about Masterframe Sash Windows, go to https://www.masterframe.co.uk/ or the BBA Agrément Certification process – visit https://www.bbacerts.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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PERI Achieves Constructionline Gold Membership Ahead of New Procurement Act

PERI Achieves Constructionline Gold Membership Ahead of New Procurement Act

PERI UK has qualified for Constructionline Gold as part of its commitment to making construction more efficient, faster and safer for all. Constructionline is an independent body which collects information on supply chain members to assess whether they have the required capabilities to supply, helping to reduce risks for those selecting suppliers. This accreditation comes at a pivotal time, as the Procurement Act (2023) is set to introduce changes that will impact the governance of public procurement in most parts of the UK. A streamlined approach PERI, a leader in temporary works industry, says that its Constructionline Gold accreditation meets the requirements of the Common Assessment Standard, which aims to streamline the procurement process. As a pre-qualified supplier, the company will simplify the assessment of its competencies and capabilities, saving all stakeholders valuable time. All relevant information about PERI’s qualifications is available digitally on the Constructionline portal. Additionally, the accreditation is expected to enhance collaboration with tier 1 contractors throughout the project lifecycle, fostering greater alignment, transparency, and trust. Matt McCarthy, Infrastructure Sales Manager at PERI UK, stated, “As the leading supplier of formwork in the temporary works sector, we have a responsibility to meet the latest standards and provide tier 1 contractors with the confidence they need when procuring for infrastructure projects. The way tier 1 contractors approach the procurement of temporary works equipment has evolved significantly over the years. Being a Constructionline Gold member places us in a strong position as the new Procurement Act takes effect, enabling us to showcase our capabilities more efficiently than ever before. Our Gold accreditation is the highest level of recognition, proving that we operate at the highest standards expected from a top-tier supply chain partner. It allows us to clearly demonstrate our competence and adherence to industry standards, ensuring safety and quality on-site—an essential factor in preventing risks.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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AIM's improved OSCB and WCB ranges meet rainscreen fire safety challenges

AIM’s improved OSCB and WCB ranges meet rainscreen fire safety challenges

Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire safety within rainscreen cladding on medium and high-rise buildings.   Together they can achieve compartmentation within the void created by the rainscreen cladding. This then provides an effective barrier to the passage of hot smoke and fire behind the cladding system.   The OSCB is installed horizontally to permit free flowing ventilation through the cavity in a vertical plane and the wall cavity barrier is fitted vertically to complete compartment lines. AIM’s six OSCBs allow the ventilation necessary within the wall construction to prevent problems of condensation allowing free airflow and drainage with either a 25mm or 44mm air gap.  They can fill voids up to 425mm (or greater in particular circumstances).  In the event of a fire, heat activates the OSCBs intumescent strip which expands quickly to close the cavity fully.  They offer either a 60, 90 or 120-minute performance for both integrity and insulation confirmed by testing in accordance with ASFP Technical Guidance Document 19 and to the general principles of BS EN 1363-1:2020. For use in cavity voids up to 600mm AIM’s new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) range is available cut to size or in slab form.  Available in three thicknesses, 75mm, 100mm and 125mm, they prevent the passage of heat, flame and smoke within the cavity for 30, 60 or 120-minute fire rating periods tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021.  This rating makes these wall cavity barriers suitable for medium to high rise buildings.  Both the AIM OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) products have third party certification issued by IFC Certification Ltd. “The wide scope of test evidence we now have for the use of our OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges gives us a compelling fire barrier package for rainscreen cladding,” explains Ian Exall, AIM’s commercial director.  “With new technical literature covering the use of these two products together to achieve compartmentation in external cladding, we aim to make specification and installation more straightforward for specifiers, system providers and installers.” “We look forward to making further product development and testing announcements during the next few months.” AIM’s OSCBs and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges are suitable for both new build rainscreen projects and remediation work. AIM provides technical, specification, training and on-site support.  New Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) and OSCB technical literature can be downloaded at: https://www.aimlimited.co.uk/cladding/ Part of the Performance Technology Group, UK-based AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has over 30 years of experience in the design, testing and manufacturing of high-quality fire, thermal and acoustic barriers.  The company produces a wide variety of bespoke insulation products to customer specification and a range of standard products.  www.aimlimited.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Nemetschek Group Achieves ISO 27001 Certification Across Organisation, Reinforcing Commitment to Data Security and Customer Trust

Nemetschek Group Achieves ISO 27001 Certification Across Organisation, Reinforcing Commitment to Data Security and Customer Trust

The Nemetschek Group, a leading global provider of software solutions for the AEC/O (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation) and media industries, today announced that it has successfully attained the ISO 27001 certification across the Group. The important certification covers the development, implementation, and maintenance of software solutions across the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AEC/O) lifecycle as well as for the Media & Entertainment industry. It underscores Nemetschek’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of information security and ensuring the protection of its data. ISO 27001 is an internationally recognised standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). Achieving this certification signifies that Nemetschek has implemented Information Security company-wide in a robust manner to manage and protect sensitive information, reduce risks of cyber threats, and ensure compliance with data protection regulations globally. The ISO certification covers all brands in the Nemetschek Group, except for the recently acquired company GoCanvas. Key Highlights of Nemetschek’s ISO 27001 Certification: “We are extremely proud to have achieved ISO 27001 certification across the Nemetschek Group”, commented Louise Öfverström, Chief Financial Officer at the Nemetschek Group. “This milestone underscores our commitment to not only providing innovative software solutions but also safeguarding the critical information that are entrusted to us. The certification assures our clients that we take their security seriously and meet the highest international standards.” This achievement is another important milestone in the company´s strategy of fostering transparency, trust, and long-term partnerships with its stakeholders. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New free advice service launches to help residents across parts of England and Scotland switch to low carbon technology

New free advice service launches to help residents across parts of England and Scotland switch to low carbon technology

Households across parts of North West England and Central Scotland can now get free help to plan home improvements that save money on energy bills and carbon emissions, thanks to a new service, Energywise. People can access free impartial advice, online or over the phone, from a team of experts at the Energywise service which officially launched today. Delivered by energy experts Energy Saving Trust and funded by SP Energy Networks, Energywise will help householders identify the best low carbon solutions, such as solar panels or a heat pump, to suit their home, budget and goals. People using the service will receive a comprehensive costed improvement plan, outlining next steps and the option of a free follow up conversation with an expert advisor. The free service also offers help to find funding and certified installers, making it easier to get the work done. Research by Energy Saving Trust has shown that 82% of homeowners in England are interested in making home improvements to reduce their energy bills, however more than a third (39%) are not confident assessing where to start with the process1. Additional research reveals that more than a third of UK adults know nothing about heat pumps, while a quarter think heat pumps are not suitable for UK homes2. With energy prices continuing to climb, and the need to cut domestic carbon emissions to curb the climate emergency, SP Energy Networks is the latest energy distributor to commission Energy Saving Trust to set up support services for the public to encourage action. Laura McGadie, Operations Director at Energy Saving Trust, said: “It’s exciting to be offering this bespoke service to help people choose what’s best for their homes when it comes to low carbon technology. Improving public awareness and understanding of things like heat pumps is a really vital part of the shift we need to make to a net zero society. We know people are willing to make changes, they just want a bit of guidance on where to start, so Energywise is there to help them plan and go on to take positive action.” Energywise is now live for those living in an area of England or Scotland serviced by the SP Energy Networks energy grid. People can check if they live in one of these via the Energy Networks Association postcode checker. To get a free personalised Energywise home improvement plan visit getenergywise.org.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Encouraging signs but big decisions still to come

Encouraging signs but big decisions still to come

The Passivhaus Trust responds to the Scottish Government’s Scottish Passivhaus Equivalent announcement The Scottish Government yesterday laid amendments to the Building (Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations to enable the implementation of the Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard. This meets the commitment made by Ministers in December 2022 to give effect to Alex Rowley MSP’s final proposal for a proposed ‘Domestic Building Environmental Standards (Scotland) Bill’. Scottish Building Standards has issued an accompanying statement, outlining the next steps for the implementation of the Scottish Passivhaus Equivalent policy.  The Passivhaus Trust welcomes the following: The Passivhaus Trust notes that the legislative amendments announced today are quite minimal in scope,  as many of the changes needed to implement a Scottish Passivhaus equivalent policy are already possible within existing building standards and do not require substantial legislative changes. Scottish Building Standards has explained this further: “…our current regulations and mandatory standard which address energy and environmental performance already provided the means to deliver the improvements which are currently sought. However, changes were needed to The Building (Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2004 to enable more effective reporting of evidence that compliance with relevant standards is achieved”. The Passivhaus Trust understands that the fine details of the policy are still to be revealed over the next few months. The outcome of the 2024 consultation process has yet to be announced and a further consultation in 2025 will determine the specific changes to performance targets and supporting compliance processes. The Scottish Building Standards team has stated that its consultation analysis report and Scottish Government response will be published shortly on the consultation webpage. In the next stage of proposals the Passivhaus Trust would like to see : Sarah Lewis, Research & Policy Director of the Passivhaus Trust said:“Today’s announcement by the Scottish Government is an important first legislative step but we are still awaiting the fine details of what that policy will look like. We are hopeful that the recommendations we put forward in our consultation response will have been taken on board so that Scottish building standards have the accurate tools and absolute energy targets that would be essential for any standard aiming to be a Passivhaus equivalent.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Report proposes ‘Five Cs’ to reduce UK’s road mortality rate

Report proposes ‘Five Cs’ to reduce UK’s road mortality rate

A new report by road marking and highway safety specialists, WJ Group, has highlighted the challenges and potential opportunities for improving road safety and reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK’s road network. Released to coincide with Brake’s Road Safety Week, WJ Group’s new report, ‘Making Vision Zero a Reality’, has been informed by a highways industry roundtable with industry leaders to drive progress on road safety. The roundtable discussion involving 15 senior highways professionals concluded that standards in the UK are now at risk of falling far behind those found in other European nations. The roundtable, which took place earlier this year, gathered influential figures from across the industry to review current efforts for preventing serious incidents on UK roads. Attendees were unanimous in their view that collectively as an industry we must take firmer action to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the road network. Once considered a leader in road safety, consecutive years of reductions in funding and a lack of strategy has seen the UK’s KSI (killed or seriously injured) rate effectively plateau over the past decade compared to significant improvements in the 2000s. According to the latest government figures, the number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK’s road network stands just under 30,000. Although this shows a small reduction when compared to previous years, this number has remained relatively stable since 2010, barring a minor improvement during 2020, although this could be attributed to COVID reducing traffic levels. Given this current trajectory, ‘Vision Zero’ – the objective to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries – is a distant hope rather than a realistic goal. At the WJ Group roundtable, attendees shared different stories of highways incidents from across the country. It soon became clear that many could have been avoided or less severe. While dangerous driving and genuine mistakes did account for loss of life, poor design, maintenance and management issues were also major contributing factors to the UK’s KSI rate. Using the insight from the roundtable, WJ Group has created ‘Five Cs’ to help the highways industry make Vision Zero a reality: 1. Culture The further development of the industry’s safety-first culture, considering safety within every aspect of the decision-making process and ensuring it is never compromised. Lessons can be learned from other sectors such as aviation where any safety breach is treated as something going catastrophically wrong. 2. Centralisation There are multiple databases filled with information about the road network such as how to improve safety that have not been brought together. By doing this, highway authorities will be able to continuously learn and improve from one another, as well as provide a forum for contractors and councils to discuss regulation. 3. Creativity By maximising existing technology, highway authorities can reestablish the connection between efficient asset management and safety. Alongside this, it can also create the link among innovations and demand which, in turn, can deliver road safety interventions with measurable outcomes in mind. 4. Conflict By creating a baseline standard for road safety that is recognised across the industry, conflicts such as justification for noise reduction versus improved safety and funding both can be addressed and managed by highways authorities. This can be done by implementing safe systems approach to enhance design and management of the network. 5. Collaboration Detailed in depth in WJ Group’s new report, safety successes across the industry must be shared to promote new learnings alongside the need to facilitate knowledge sharing according to a recognised structure. This will help collaboration within the industry, bringing different stakeholders together and help push it towards a safer future. Speaking on the roundtable’s findings, Wayne Johnston, CEO at WJ Group said: “Strategies such as Vision Zero should not be considered unachievable. By bringing together 15 experienced highways leaders, we have been able to further the conversation on what the industry thinks and what must be done to reduce the number of people who lose their life through avoidable road incidents. “Using their years of expertise, we have created the ‘Five Cs’ as a blueprint for the industry to implement change without the need to significantly increase budgets. “If we continue this trajectory, then members of the public are still at risk each and every time they use the road network. It is our duty to mitigate this and create a safe environment for everyone. By recognising and implementing learnings from ‘Making Vision Zero a Reality’, we as an industry can take small and simple steps that will greatly impact road safety.” For more information about WJ Group, please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware published

A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF).  This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than a decade, and represents a significant update and consolidation of previous guidelines to reflect the very latest legislative requirements and best practices in the industry.  It provides an essential reference and resource for a broad spectrum of construction industry professionals including architects, building control officers, fire officers, responsible persons, duty holders, manufacturers, specifiers, and suppliers of building hardware and fire doors.  GAI technical manager Douglas Masterson said: “The primary goal of this Code of Practice is to ensure that key stakeholders throughout the construction industry have access to the most current and comprehensive advice on selecting hardware that meets the stringent requirements for fire safety and escape routes.  “While the Code is advisory, it is designed to provide robust guidance that aligns with the latest legal standards.  “While compliance with the Code does not confer immunity from legal, local authority or insurance requirements, it will significantly enhance the safety and reliability of fire-resisting and escape door assemblies.”  The Code addresses a wide range of legislative requirements, including: •             Construction Products Regulations in both the EU and UK. •             Building Regulations throughout the UK and Ireland, including the Building Regulations 2010 (England & Wales), Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, and Building Regulations 1997-2021 (Ireland). •             Workplace Fire Safety Legislation across the UK and Ireland, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. •             Equality Legislation applicable in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland.  Additionally, the Code considers third-party certification schemes and declarations of conformity with relevant standards, ensuring that the guidance provided is both comprehensive and up to date.  The Code applies to building hardware used on timber fire doors with up to two hours of fire resistance and steel fire doors with up to four hours of fire resistance.  The hardware items covered are categorised into essential items necessary for the successful operation of the doors (such as pivots and hinges, door closing devices, latch or locks, intumescent and smoke seals, and panic bolts), and optional (non-essential) items that could potentially cause door failure if not properly selected or installed.   As a part of this revision there are several new sections relating to electric locking and access control, which are of increasing importance in the world of building hardware. Issue 5 of the Code replaces the previous issue 4, as well as all previous codes of practice published by both the Association of Building Hardware Manufacturers (now DHF) and the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers, all of which have been withdrawn to ensure that professionals are working with the most current and relevant information.  DHF general manager Michael Skelding said: “This revision is the result of more than two years work by the teams at the DHF and GAI in conjunction with technical specialists at the leading companies in our industry.  “The result should be seen as an essential reference document for anyone involved in the selection, installation and testing of building hardware and furniture for fire and escape doors.”  Code of Practice: Hardware for Fire and Escape Doors edition 5 can be downloaded for free at www.firecode.org.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New best practice casebook highlights use of technology to tackle construction errors

New best practice casebook highlights use of technology to tackle construction errors

The 2024 Technology Report from the Get It Right Initiative published today shows how the construction and technology sectors are innovating together to improve productivity, quality, safety and sustainability. The report features multi-million pound construction projects including HS2’s Colne Valley viaduct, San Francisco international airport and London’s Western Yard’s development. Technology innovations include: This report builds on GIRI’s previous research, which identified 17 root causes of error in construction and the technology solutions to address them. The 2024 GIRI Technology Report brings together best practice case studies that show how technology solutions are being used on construction projects to reduce error and improve productivity. The Get It Right Initiative is a membership group of over 100 UK construction industry experts, organisations and businesses actively collaborating to reduce error in the sector. GIRI’s Technology Working Group brings together technology providers and industry leaders who understand the practical challenges faced in construction to share, test and learn from technology solutions. GIRI Executive Director, Cliff Smith said: “Digital tools must be combined with people and processes, and fed with the right information, to be implemented effectively. We hope that this report will inspire other design and construction firms to adopt digital tools, as well as encourage technology providers to continue to develop new solutions.” Report author and chair of GIRI’s Technology Working Group, John Priestland said: “The power of this report lies in its real-world examples of technology in use. The case studies prove just how effective these tools can be, and we are very grateful to the providers and their clients who have shared their experiences to drive learning and innovation in our industry.” Download the 2024 GIRI Technology Report at https://getitright.uk.com/reports/giri-research-report-the-use-of-technology-to-reduce-errors-in-design-and-construction-a-best-practice-casebook Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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