The Institution of Fire Engineers’ Engineering Council register has now surpassed 1,000 registrants, showcasing the commitment to competence and ethical practice from IFE members. As part of the registration process, applicants must demonstrate their competence and commitment via peer review against the UK Standard for Engineering Competence and Commitment (UK-SPEC).
Today, NBS (powered by Hubexo), a leading specification and product platform for the construction industry, has announced plans to strengthen ties with the product certification division of BSI, a global organisation defining and certifying standards for quality, safety, and efficiency. Both companies are synonymous with excellence in the construction industry. BSI,
Simply Certification, a leading certification body for the construction and decarbonisation industry, has announced that it has joined Normec, a specialist in the testing, inspection, certification and compliancy industry. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Jarrow, South Tyneside, Simply Certification provides certification for the construction industry across a range of
Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) is publicly backing the Lithium-ion Battery Safety Bill, calling for increased awareness and education to save lives and reduce risk of fires, as it launches a vital safety initiative for the hire industry, targeting those handling lithium-ion batteries. The Lithium-ion Battery
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued an urgent warning to those responsible for procuring personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products following the results of its latest independent tests. These findings once again reveal the alarming prevalence of substandard—and potentially hazardous—products circulating in the market. Between December 2023
30-year-old among five new Fellowships awarded by the Institution of Civil Engineers. Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is celebrating the achievements of five professionals who have been awarded Fellowship by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the highest grade of membership and a globally recognised mark of professional excellence. Fellowship
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,
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
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
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
The Institution of Fire Engineers’ Engineering Council register has now surpassed 1,000 registrants, showcasing the commitment to competence and ethical practice from IFE members. As part of the registration process, applicants must demonstrate their competence and commitment via peer review against the UK Standard for Engineering Competence and Commitment (UK-SPEC). The commitment to continuous professional development (CPD) ensures ethical practice is being maintained and a continuing dedication to public safety. Professional registration with the Engineering Council demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that an individual’s competency has been independently assessed and verified, supporting personal career progression and elevating the profession. It also assures the public and stakeholders that the registered professionals have met the high standards of practice and ethical conduct required by the Engineering Council, the regulatory body for engineering in the UK. Over 1,000 IFE Engineering Council registrants now carry globally recognised post-nominals, symbolising their commitment to excellence, competence, and ethical standards across the fire sector. This milestone also underscores the growing recognition of fire engineering as a critical and dynamic field that plays a vital role in public safety, infrastructure, and resilience. “This reflects the dedication of our members in upholding the highest standards of professional competence and ethical conduct,” said Steve Hamm, CEO of the IFE. “Fire engineers are not only highly skilled but also committed to the ongoing development and ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the profession.” The IFE is licensed by the Engineering Council, the regulatory body for the UK engineering profession who set and maintain internationally recognised standards of professional competence and commitment. Fire engineering continues to evolve, and it’s apparent that IFE members are enhancing their skills and contributing to the new phase in fire safety. CEO of the Engineering Council, Paul Bailey said: “Ensuring competence and safe, ethical practice isvital throughout the whole engineering profession. It is encouraging to see the increasing number offire engineers choosing to become professionally registered and demonstrating their commitmentto develop and apply their skills to protect people and planet at this time of rapid social andtechnological change. “We welcome this announcement as we prepare to join the IFE and other engineering institutions inmarking Chartered Week, running from 24 to 28 February, which will be celebrating theachievements of professionals and organisations that inspire public trust in engineering andbeyond.” For further information on Engineering Council registration please visit: Engineering Council registration. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Today, NBS (powered by Hubexo), a leading specification and product platform for the construction industry, has announced plans to strengthen ties with the product certification division of BSI, a global organisation defining and certifying standards for quality, safety, and efficiency. Both companies are synonymous with excellence in the construction industry. BSI, the business standards and improvement company, provides guidelines and frameworks that organisations and professionals in the construction sector can follow to meet industry requirements and regulatory obligations. BSI is also recognised for the Kitemark in the construction sector, a quality mark that indicates that a product, service, or system has been rigorously tested and meets a certain standard of quality or performance. NBS (powered by Hubexo), is a firm driving industry compliance through the adoption of digital processes and trusted data. Building on its collaborative history, NBS users will be given deeper guidance on BSI-accredited products, in a move that will further expand the platform’s compliance offering. Specifiers and construction professionals will also gain further assistance in the decision-making process, with NBS providing consistent third-party assessment details at the point of specification. Dr Stephen Hamil, Innovation Director at Hubexo, said: “Our mission is to use the power of connected data to add value and enable a safe, efficient, high-quality construction sector. We’re always looking to improve the level of information supplied to end-users so that specifiers can be confident in the integrity of crucial product data. “Expanding our partnership with BSI gives specifiers easier access to reliable, verified product data, boosting confidence in their design decisions. Greater collaboration is key to improving standards and compliance. By strengthening our partnership with BSI, we’re enhancing our service to our customers, giving them the tools they need to make the best choices possible.” Rob Hine, Global Head of Market Engagement, BSI Product Certification said: “Enhancing safety, efficiency and quality in the construction sector can help strengthen the sector, improve the lives of those working in it, and ultimately ensure buildings being developed meet society’s needs. “BSI is committed to supporting the construction industry in this way, and we recognise that our impact can be much greater if we work collaboratively with the entire construction market. That’s why we are delighted to partner with NBS, which is driving quality and helping clients mitigate risk throughout the entire construction supply chain.” Further collaboration between the two industry powerhouses will also help reduce the risk of misspecification, delivering clearer, unambiguous product information to the fingertips of architects and designers working on construction projects. New functionality in NBS Source helps specifiers easily identify and select those products and systems that are BSI-certified. Darryl Holloway, Architectural Sales Manager (UK) at manufacturer Q-railing said: “Increasingly we’ve seen specifiers request third-party assessment of the product information and marketing associated with our products. The BSI Kitemark is a mark of trust, and. crucially, having this integrated into specification information via NBS Source makes it even easier for specifiers to find our assessed systems and products and specify them with greater confidence.” To find out more about BSI on NBS Source, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Simply Certification, a leading certification body for the construction and decarbonisation industry, has announced that it has joined Normec, a specialist in the testing, inspection, certification and compliancy industry. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Jarrow, South Tyneside, Simply Certification provides certification for the construction industry across a range of standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001 and ISO 45001. The business has also expanded its offering to include PAS2030, MCS and Flexi-Orb, supporting the industry to retrofit 24 million houses before the 2050 carbon net zero deadline laid out by the Government. This deal marks a significant milestone in Simply Certification’s 4-year journey and sets the stage for strengthening its market position, whilst enabling Normec to expand its built environment certification and compliance arm. Commenting on the deal, Alexandra Stobbs, Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to have secured this deal with Normec. They have a great reputation across the globe, and this will allow us to further consolidate our market position as a leading certification body in the UK, whilst giving them the opportunity to enter the market and grow the team and business here. Simply Certification has enjoyed rapid growth, due in part to the burgeoning need for retrofit installations ahead of carbon net zero. But it’s our commitment to customer service that we believe has given us the advantage in a traditional marketplace. This deal will allow us to continue to expand at an accelerated rate and provide huge growth potential for Normec.” Mariska van Schaik, Managing Director of Normec’s Sustainability division, added: “Simply Certification has very quickly secured an enviable position in the UK market by focusing on customers, technology and ways to improve the certification process. It has an experienced team, robust trading and a strong market presence. Under the umbrella of Normec, we look forward to growing operations in the UK.” The deal completed in January 2025 and Alexandra Stobbs (previously Gates), Managing Director of Simply Certification will continue to lead the business under the current brand. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) is publicly backing the Lithium-ion Battery Safety Bill, calling for increased awareness and education to save lives and reduce risk of fires, as it launches a vital safety initiative for the hire industry, targeting those handling lithium-ion batteries. The Lithium-ion Battery Safety Bill aims to make provision regarding the safe storage, use and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. It was introduced in July 2024 and is currently at Committee Stage in the House of Lords. HAE EHA will be sharing best practice videos and infographics on its website and social media to educate users on how to store and use these batteries correctly, as well as what to do should a fire break out. HAE EHA members will also be able to access a more detailed resource pack as part of their membership. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular type of rechargeable battery provided for use in power tools and equipment, for example; cordless drills, grinders, saws, garden tools etc, as well as e-bikes and scooters, and mobile phones. These batteries have a high energy density, meaning they can store a large amount of energy in a small volume and support high power demands. Though generally safe, lithium-ion batteries can become fire risks due to improper use or damage, and enter a state called ‘thermal runaway’ where the battery enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state which can lead to a fire. It has been reported that UK fire services attended 921 fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in 2023, a 46 per cent increase on 2022’s figures, with almost three fires a day involving these batteries[1]. HAE EHA is an industry-leading trade association for the plant, tool, equipment and event hire sectors with membership representing businesses from new startups to some of Europe’s largest hire companies. It has over 700 member companies based in the UK, Europe and across other parts of the world. Carl Bartlett, director of certification services at HAE EHA, said: “We don’t want any more people to be hurt as a result of poor use or poor storage of lithium-ion batteries. There are too many avoidable instances where we believe better education about how to handle these batteries could save lives and livelihoods. “Companies in the hire industry hiring out these devices need to be able to properly inform their customers and teams about how to safely use, transport, store and report any issues about their lithium-ion batteries. If these new resources can help avoid even one fire, their job has been done.” HAE EHA’s advice for the safe handling of lithium-ion batteries includes: For full advice and best practice guidance, members can download resources via the HAE EHA member platform: https://www.hae.org.uk/members/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued an urgent warning to those responsible for procuring personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products following the results of its latest independent tests. These findings once again reveal the alarming prevalence of substandard—and potentially hazardous—products circulating in the market. Between December 2023 and December 2024, the BSIF tested 161 products from non-member suppliers, assessing their advertised performance, labelling accuracy, and compliance with relevant standards. Alarmingly, only 10% (16 products) met full compliance requirements, while an overwhelming 90% (138 products) failed to meet the necessary criteria with seven test results still pending. Particularly troubling was the finding that in some categories, including head protection, eye & face protection and fall protection, every non-member product tested (100%) failed the assessments. Even more concerning is the fact that many of these substandard products are still available for purchase, placing unsuspecting users at significant risk. Key problem areas Failures were identified across all product categories, with some showing particularly alarming issues: • Head Protection: 100% failure rate (6 products) Products failed resistance to penetration and shock absorption tests, potentially allowing impacts to penetrate the helmet or transfer excessive force to the wearer’s head. • Eye and Face Protection & Fall Protection: 100% failure rate (13 products) Products failed to resist particle impacts, risking severe injuries from foreign objects entering the eyes or compromising fall safety mechanisms. • Safety Footwear: 86% failure rate (31 products) A growing number of safety shoes, often marketed on social media platforms like TikTok, promise comfort and protection but fail critical tests such as toecap compression, impact resistance, midsole penetration, slip resistance, and electrical hazard protection. • Hearing Protection: 90% failure rate (28 products) Issues included incorrect cushion and headband pressures, compromising effectiveness against hazardous noise levels. • Safety Gloves: 95% failure rate (21 products) Products failed claims for cut protection, abrasion resistance, and puncture resistance, leaving wearers exposed to mechanical injuries. • Hi-Vis Clothing: 85% failure rate (11 products) Many garments lacked sufficient brightness and failed chromaticity and luminance tests, rendering them ineffective in low-visibility conditions. • Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE): 88% failure rate (22 products) Filters in these products did not adequately protect against hazardous dust and fumes. The tests and assessments were conducted in accordance with the requirements of the PPE Regulation and are vital for ensuring that only safe and effective products are placed on the market. BSIF member test results The non-member test results are vastly different from the results of tests conducted on products supplied by BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, who are committed to selling only certified PPE and trading honestly and ethically. Of the 399 tests completed on products from Registered Safety Suppliers between December 2023 and December 2024, 86% – 322 products – passed. Even for the 14% – 51 products – initially falling short, all issues were promptly addressed and rectified, while 24 results are still pending. Check for the BSIF Shield For buyers and end users seeking assurance, the BSIF Shield is a respected mark of credibility. Companies displaying this shield have pledged a binding declaration that their PPE and safety equipment meets the correct performance standards, fully complies with regulations, and bears the necessary UKCA and/or CE markings. Choosing a Registered Safety Supplier helps to ensure not only genuine products fit for purpose but also authentic information and guidance. Commenting on the latest statistics, BSIF CEO Alan Murray says: “People are continually surprised by the sheer volume of PPE and safety products that fail to meet basic safety standards. What’s even more shocking is that, despite vendors being informed of these deficiencies, such products often remain on the market, continuing to expose unsuspecting buyers and users to significant risks. “Our latest test results have once again brought to light a deluge of problem PPE, from substandard safety helmets to safety shoes that fall a long way short of the required standards for keeping wearers safe. “Buyers and specifiers must urgently review their procurement processes and consider what assurances they have that the PPE and safety equipment they are being supplied with is fit for purpose.” BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme Manager Roy Wilders adds: “The findings are deeply concerning. When protective—and sometimes life-saving—equipment fails to meet standards, it’s not just a statistic; it’s a potential tragedy waiting to happen.” “The dedicated RSSS team works tirelessly year-round, assessing members of the scheme to ensure compliance with stringent requirements and actively monitoring the market to identify and address substandard products. However, buyers also have a critical role to play. By verifying the credentials of their PPE and safety equipment suppliers, they can help eliminate the market for substandard goods and prioritise safety above all. “Checking for the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier shield is the easiest way to ensure you only deal with compliant, competent and trustworthy suppliers. Remember, anyone can sell safety, but you shouldn’t buy safety from just anyone; always check for the BSIF shield.” Resources for buyers • Download the BSIF’s PPE purchasing checklist: Check Your PPE • Find a full list of Registered Safety Suppliers: Registered Safety Supplier Scheme Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
30-year-old among five new Fellowships awarded by the Institution of Civil Engineers. Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is celebrating the achievements of five professionals who have been awarded Fellowship by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the highest grade of membership and a globally recognised mark of professional excellence. Fellowship is awarded in recognition of the significant contribution engineers have made to the profession and is an endorsement of leadership, knowledge, skills and experience. The list includes Georgia Thompson, who, at the age of 30, is the youngest woman ever to have achieved Fellowship. A chartered civil engineer and design manager currently working as part of Costain’s role as major project partner on the Heathrow Airport terminal asset renewal programme, Georgia has had previous engineering roles on HS2, Network Rail and Transport for London. Since 2023 Costain has successfully supported and coached 13 engineers through the ICE Fellowship application process as part of their career development. This is in addition to many other professional qualifications Costain supports across all levels and disciplines, with more than 450 chartered engineers across the organisation. In addition to Georgia, Costain professionals Simon Chaffer, Richard Helme, John Holding and Clive Glasspool also achieved ICE Fellowship last year. Georgia Thompson, civil engineer at Costain, commented: “It’s an honour to have achieved the highest level of ICE membership. At Costain, our purpose is to improve people’s lives and I’m incredibly proud to be recognised among a peer group of world class engineers that have made such a difference to society.” Katherine Etheridge, ICE regional director, London, South East, and East of England, said: “It’s a privilege to be part of our members’ professional journeys. The ICE’s purpose is to ensure people and planet have the infrastructure they need to thrive, and we can’t do that without our members expertise. Seeing them achieve Fellowship status is always exciting.” Andrew Threlfall, group chief engineer at Costain, said: “Congratulations to Georgia, Simon, Richard, John and Clive for achieving Fellowship status. At Costain, we place great importance on personal and professional growth and developing all our people to be the best they can be. Our engineering-led approach is vital to ensure we continue to deliver predictable, best-in-class sustainable infrastructure solutions for our customers.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
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
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
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
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
