Bowater Doors, part of Birtley Group, has strengthened the business with the appointment of Pete White in a new role as Head of Sales. An experienced sales professional, Pete has joined the leading composite and fire door manufacturer as the business looks to ramp up its supply to national house
Sentry Fire Safety Group (Sentry), the leading fire safety and security doorset manufacturer, was delighted to welcome Ed Miliband, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, to its Doncaster manufacturing facility on 12th January. Having last visited the firm in 2011, Mr Miliband toured Sentry’s newly expanded facility,
Steel Window Association members, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) and Steel Window Fittings (SWF) brought their individual expertise together while working on the County Hall project. Building on its 30-year long association with the former GLC headquarters on the south bank of the Thames, ASWS has provided its unique skillset
The UK’s leading manufacturer of plasterboard and plaster-based drylining systems has announced that all of its systems have now been awarded the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) mark. Earlier this year, British Gypsum announced that its non-loadbearing metal stud plasterboard partition systems, including shaft wall, had become one of
The adoption of innovative and interconnected door hardware systems can help overcome the challenges associated with building security, explains Daniel May of Consort Architectural Hardware. The security of our built environment and the safety of its people is paramount throughout a building’s lifecycle. While these elements remain a primary focus
The versatile W40 window profiles, specifically developed by the Steel Window Association (SWA) for its members, are a stylish and modern solution that suit both new-build and refurbishment applications. While the classic W20 section continues to be preferred by conservationists and many property owners for early 20th century and older
Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is urging caution with regards to gate and barrier safety, following the death of Thomas Manns, an employee of Weston’s Cider who lost his life due to a barrier crash. The accident happened at the Much Marcle Factory, near Ledbury, on 28th September 2020 on
Unilin Technologies is excited to announce that Novalis, a renowned manufacturer of high-quality resilient flooring products, adopts the FlinTile technology on their new resilient flooring ranges. Starting in July, Novalis integrated this groundbreaking innovation into these new collections, revolutionizing the looks, installation and performance of these resilient flooring products. FlinTile
West Yorkshire Police Dog Section needed a new facility to replace existing kennels which had served their time for over 30 years. Over a period of 10 months, the site was redeveloped, and the new kennels and associated accommodation were constructed. The site was successfully handed over and the new
One of Eurocell’s most energy-efficient window solutions has been used as part of an award-winning large-scale residential development in Rainham, Kent. Long-term fabrication and installation partner A&B Glass, included the market-leading Logik PVC-U window system as an alternative to aluminium frames, to meet developer and homeowner demand at the Beaulieu
Bowater Doors, part of Birtley Group, has strengthened the business with the appointment of Pete White in a new role as Head of Sales. An experienced sales professional, Pete has joined the leading composite and fire door manufacturer as the business looks to ramp up its supply to national house builders and for social housing refurbishment and social rebuild. Previously, Pete headed up a team of five as Northern Sales Director for Vent-Axia. The business manufactured and supplied ventilation, heating and air conditioning equipment for social housing and local authority housing. Within his role at Bowater, Pete will appoint and lead a national sales team for the business, which is headquartered in Birtley, Gateshead. Pete aims to increase revenues as the firm meets the requirements of house building groups as well as local authorities and housing associations responsible for tenancy new builds and retrofit projects. Pete said: “Having worked in the UK manufacturing sector, I know Bowater Doors is an established business that is well-regarded within the sectors that it serves. “It is great to be joining a North East employer and am looking forward to being an intrinsic part of an entrepreneurial company. I plan to raise Bowater’s provision of fire doors and composite doors for residential new builds and renovation projects for social housing houses, flats and tower blocks. “A robust supply chain of composite doors and BM Trada performance certified fire doors and frames are fundamental for house building and retrofitting. I am excited about meeting Bowater’s current and new clients and being involved with their projects.” Jason Anderson, Managing Director for Birtley Group, added: “We’re delighted that a person of Pete’s calibre and experience is now a part of the business, as we support Bowater customers across the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sentry Fire Safety Group (Sentry), the leading fire safety and security doorset manufacturer, was delighted to welcome Ed Miliband, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, to its Doncaster manufacturing facility on 12th January. Having last visited the firm in 2011, Mr Miliband toured Sentry’s newly expanded facility, chatted to staff, learnt about the company’s transformation and impressive growth trajectory, and saw first-hand how Sentry is leading the way in sustainable manufacturing. Sentry manufactures compliant, certified timber fire safety door sets for use in social housing, education, healthcare, care, and commercial environments, from a 35,000 sq. ft factory in Adwick le Street. It works closely with social housing and other sector providers to replace unsafe fire doors and advance the aims of the Fire Safety Act, which has become an important focus following the Grenfell tragedy. Investment in new facilities and state-of-the-art machinery Following its partnership with strategic advisers Cairngorm Capital in 2019, Sentry has benefited from a £2m investment in new facilities and state-of-the-art machinery and equipment, and investment in a new ERP system to streamline procurement and automate the ordering process and contribute to ongoing staff training. The company has also gained a second facility in Birmingham following its acquisition of Knowles in August 2022, a move which saw Sentry become the UK’s leader in fire safety and security doorsets market. Employee numbers have increased from 28 in 2019, to 200 today across both the Doncaster and Birmingham factories and has been supported by investment that has been made in staff training. Overall, this investment has resulted in an astonishing 100% increase in turnover and profits. A sustainable approach to manufacturing As Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Mr Miliband was particularly keen to find out more about Sentry’s sustainable approach to manufacturing, which guides everything that the firm does from product design to selecting their supply chain. Sentry leads the way in sustainable doorset production, through a variety of initiatives. For example, sawdust created during the production of Sentry’s timber fire doorsets is recycled by a local mill and the warehouse is heated using a return air duct from their extraction system. Sentry’s Birmingham factory is proud to hold IS0 14001 certification and FSC Certification, and the company is a strong supporter of green initiatives including Trees for Cities. Ty Aziz, Sentry’s CEO who spent time with Mr Miliband during his first visit, commented: ‘We were delighted to welcome Mr Miliband to our facility once again, we thoroughly enjoyed his company and welcomed the opportunity to demonstrate the transformation in our business and the growth that we’ve achieved since he was last here. It was also great to discuss our various ESG initiatives with him and be able to introduce Mr Miliband to some of the people that make Sentry the fantastic, forward-thinking business it is today.” Following his visit to the Sentry Doors facility, Mr Miliband commented: “I’m delighted to visit Sentry again and witness the growth in the business that has occurred since I was last here. Sentry provides jobs for local people and is a great example of how quality companies can thrive with committed partners. I look forward to Sentry continuing to support local people’s livelihoods for many years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Steel Window Association members, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) and Steel Window Fittings (SWF) brought their individual expertise together while working on the County Hall project. Building on its 30-year long association with the former GLC headquarters on the south bank of the Thames, ASWS has provided its unique skillset to a company carrying out an equally unusual style of redevelopment within the property’s long neglected top floor level. ASWS carried out a comprehensive, yet carefully considered repair and replacement contract at County Hall. Level 5 of County Hall had actually been empty since 1994, with little maintenance carried out and a number of the dormer window structures having been boarded up or infilled with brickwork for the past two decades. Following its completion of a detailed condition survey on behalf of the project consultants, ASWS was duly tasked with repairing and easing a total of 134 faceted bay windows, many of which had suffered heavy corrosion. Director of ASWS, Kris Bennell, recounted, “The original windows featured Medium Universal suite steel frames, so for the 11 which had to be reinstated we produced close replicas using W20 sections; though across the job as a whole we were asked to provide a ‘light touch’ restoration. This is very much the ethos of the client which is committed to providing sustainable workspaces; as well as offering help with issues such as funding and recruitment.” “Rather than gutting out the 5th floor, the old parquet floor was cleaned and preserved while many wall areas were left bare. For the fenestration, new handles were fixed to the original back-plates, while we designed new blocks which were fitted to the heads, for the spring catches to engage with. Any broken panes were replaced and all of the hinges reset to ensure ease of operation.” Kris Bennell concluded, “This is one of the very first contracts of its type in the country, where interventions have been kept to an absolute minimum – based on sustainability and environmental impact rather than cost – and we have been very proud to be involved.” James Barrett, from Steel Window Fittings, said, “It was fantastic to see our hardware in-situ on such a prestigious building. The B205N09F is a unique window handle with a sleek, curving lever that complements the Edwardian baroque architecture.” Steel Window Fittings’ duplex system was selected to stay true to the building’s heritage appearance whilst providing functionality to the large, multilight windows. Adding a duplex system produces a tight seal between the frame and sash, reducing weathering and promoting longevity. Along with the handle fittings, the B59KN OG – a classic slide stay with a fitted round knob – was also installed onto the bottom section of the window to allow for fixing of the window position for safety within the building. All hardware was supplied in a matching oil rubbed bronze finish to blend with the traditional window frames throughout level 5 in County Hall. The SWA offers UK wide coverage with member companies able to carry out the full range of contracts from the repair and restoration of heritage windows through to the installation of major fenestration packages in contemporary commercial, residential and other types of developments. For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s leading manufacturer of plasterboard and plaster-based drylining systems has announced that all of its systems have now been awarded the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) mark. Earlier this year, British Gypsum announced that its non-loadbearing metal stud plasterboard partition systems, including shaft wall, had become one of the first products on the UK market to carry the CCPI mark. Now six product sets have been validated by CCPI, a method developed by the Construction Products Association’s (CPA) Marketing Integrity Group to provide assurance that the product information is clear, accurate, accessible, up-to-date and unambiguous. The six product sets listed cover 23 British Gypsum systems, incorporating 300 products. The six product sets are: non-loadbearing metal stud plasterboard partition systems, including shaft wall; non-loadbearing ceiling systems; structural steel encasement systems; ceiling systems below loadbearing timber joist floors; non-loadbearing wall lining systems and proprietary and non-proprietary lining systems incorporating Gypsum products, such as GypLyner Xternal, linings for timber frames and plastering systems. Dave Robinson, Head of Technical Support at Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, which includes British Gypsum, Celotex and Isover, said: “We’re proud to be working proactively with the CCPI and welcomed the initiative with open arms and were keen to be one of the first to get involved. “In essence, it provides a benchmark for manufacturers and signifies to customers that the product information they’re receiving is trustworthy and adheres to the high standards set out by the CCPI.” Dave, who sat on the CPA’s Marketing Integrity Group, added: “In working with CCPI there was very little difference with what we were doing already. We have always set great store by our data integrity and we ensure that our test data is shared openly and transparently, as evidenced by the fact that we have been publishing the White Book for more than half a century.” In order to ensure a ‘single source of truth’ for its test data, British Gypsum created a sophisticated Product Information Management (PIM) system, which includes 13,000 test reports, with drylining system tests carried out at the independent, UKAS-accredited Building Test Centre. The PIM system means test data is always up to date, which is why British Gypsum took the decision to stop printing the White Book, making it digital to ensure accurate, timely and accessible data. Dave added: “As the construction industry adapts to a new and improved building safety regime, we hope our partners within the industry and the wider sector join us in securing CCPI accreditation and taking responsibility for building better and safer.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The adoption of innovative and interconnected door hardware systems can help overcome the challenges associated with building security, explains Daniel May of Consort Architectural Hardware. The security of our built environment and the safety of its people is paramount throughout a building’s lifecycle. While these elements remain a primary focus at each touchpoint of a construction project, today’s design teams are sooner adopting modern access control systems to address this age-old challenge, but why? Where systems were once rudimentary, modern access control has evolved into a revolutionary factor of building design, unlocking various benefits for its many users in the process. The Internet of Things (IoT) has enhanced building security as we know it, and as technology continues to advance, more options enter the market. Following more than a decade of innovation and integration, the access control market is projected to grow year on year, from £7.8 billion in 2023 to £11.8 billion by 2028. Modern user requirements have led to several operational and technological advancements during this period, and decision makers and design teams alike can now choose from a versatile selection of options. Some door hardware products now utilise smart locks, cloud control and even biometrics for example, and most recently, there’s been a substantial change to the way access control systems operate, with focus moving towards end users and ease of use. From an operational perspective, interconnected access control systems gift users with an intuitive network that improves building security through the use of real-time status updates, while also providing them with the ability to grant instant access approval and denial at the touch of a button. Often, users can operate their building’s various access points through their mobile phone, which has led to improved flexibility and efficiency in most environments – whether at home or in a public access property. The security benefits also become clear when compared to the alternative of physical keys. If a traditional key is lost or stolen, the security of a building becomes at risk until it is found or replaced. Intuitive access control systems are designed to build upon the traditional lock and key methods. By seamlessly integrating smart door hardware into both new and retrofit projects, users can manage access points and improve security across the building – without stifling ease of access, stunting future scalability or unsettling the aesthetics. As many adopt Wi-Fi infrastructures, NFC technology and cloud services into their buildings, decision makers must also consider the need for better standards. While the introduction of IoT may advance security, performance and functionality, it can also introduce new risks which must be mitigated by adhering to both localised and international standards, such as ISO 27001 for example. The Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) standard is one of the widely recognised and respected standards for access control products and provides comprehensive requirements for systems by focusing on interoperability, scalability, and functionality. This standard ensures that access control products from different manufacturers can seamlessly integrate and communicate with each other, allowing for greater flexibility and choice when designing a complete access control system. After all, a one size fits all access control solution simply doesn’t exist and decision makers would be remiss in not selecting a product that aligns with their building’s needs while meeting the required standards. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The versatile W40 window profiles, specifically developed by the Steel Window Association (SWA) for its members, are a stylish and modern solution that suit both new-build and refurbishment applications. While the classic W20 section continues to be preferred by conservationists and many property owners for early 20th century and older properties, W40 exemplifies how steel fenestration systems have kept pace with modern tastes and technical demands, while retaining key attributes such as strength and excellent daylight transmission. Today’s W40 profiles, manufactured from hot rolled steel, provide greater flexibility than their predecessors, being able too accommodate thicker double or even triple glazing units. They are also capable of creating larger window openings without coupling individual frames together. Doors manufactured using W40 profiles and featuring double or triple glazing can achieve very good thermal performance, while further providing excellent security; with multipoint locking being an option. The preferred IG unit for a building regulations compliant W40 steel window now features a 4-8-4-8-4mm construction, with two soft-coat Low-E panes; plus warm edge spacer bars and argon gas filling. They can also contain acoustic glass, making W40 designs ideal for many inner-city areas where noise pollution is a common issue. The SWA represents steel window manufacturers, from expert restorers working with heritage bodies and local conservation officers, to large companies producing W40 frames for commercial offices and leisure destinations as well as modern apartment blocks, schools, hospitals, and other public buildings. Significantly, W40 profiles can be used to fabricate a wide variety of opening formats, including multi-leaf folding/stacking doors, in a full selection of RAL colours. The SWA offers UK wide coverage with member companies able to carry out the full range of contracts from the repair and restoration of heritage windows through to the installation of major fenestration packages in contemporary commercial, residential and other types of developments. For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is urging caution with regards to gate and barrier safety, following the death of Thomas Manns, an employee of Weston’s Cider who lost his life due to a barrier crash. The accident happened at the Much Marcle Factory, near Ledbury, on 28th September 2020 on Mr Manns’ 65th birthday. Mr Manns was driving a van for H Weston and Sons Limited, the manufacturer of Henry Weston’s Cider, when he was killed by the end of a security barrier. Following an investigation, conducted by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), it was found that H Weston and Sons had installed the barrier a month earlier, and failed to undertake a suitable and sufficient risk assessment. In addition, the company failed to implement a safe system of work to ensure the barrier could be secured safely when open and closed. The company was fined £1.4 million and ordered to pay £26,756.50 in costs at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on 30 November 2023. Following this tragic incident, DHF is compelled to remind duty holders of their responsibilities with regards to gate and barrier safety. “As required in The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, it is imperative that duty holders carry out and document formal risk assessments. The Workplace Regulations 1992, identify traffic routes and doors and gates as requiring specific attention,” explains DHF’s Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Steve Hill. “HSE provides clear guidance on duty holders’ responsibilities, emphasising that horizontally moving barriers must be adequately secured at all times. While not directly linked to powered barriers, we are stressing the vital importance of securing manual gates in either the open or closed position. This is also relevant to powered hinged gates, especially when left in manual mode.” The Tamworth-based trade association has long advocated for a comprehensive and thorough approach to gate and barrier safety. Regardless of whether the installation involves a powered or manual gate, the federation strongly recommends engaging specialists who are trained to install compliant products and conduct thorough risk assessments, and who can provide advice on regular maintenance procedures, as well as user training. “When installing any type of vehicle barrier or gate, it is crucial to involve specialists who have received proper training to assess the risks associated with the installation. This includes providing expert advice on maintenance procedures and user training,” concludes Steve. “As we reflect on this terrible outcome, DHF remains committed to promoting safety standards within the industry and offering training to help reduce accidents such as this.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Unilin Technologies is excited to announce that Novalis, a renowned manufacturer of high-quality resilient flooring products, adopts the FlinTile technology on their new resilient flooring ranges. Starting in July, Novalis integrated this groundbreaking innovation into these new collections, revolutionizing the looks, installation and performance of these resilient flooring products. FlinTile is a grouted locking system that offers a solution for ceramic tile lovers that want an easy to install floor. FlinTile is DIY-friendly and walkable in less than 24 hours after installation. With this technology, Novalis provides a 100% waterproof flooring option that enables users to enjoy the authentic look of grouted tiles in just three simple steps: Click, grout, clean. The FlinTile technology provides flawless grouting lines without the need for spacers, and enables the possibility to have different panel formats, including square tiles arranged in checkerboard patterns. “We are thrilled to implement Unilin Technologies’ FlinTile groutable locking technology into our flooring production,” states John Wu, CEO of Novalis. “This innovative solution enhances our ability to deliver exceptional resilient flooring options that are not only visually appealing but also offer hassle-free installation and superior performance to our customers.” Novalis’ decision to implement FlinTile exemplifies their commitment to providing customers with flooring solutions that combine convenience, style, and durability. They will be showcasing this groutable locking technology at The International Surfaces Event in Las Vegas in January 2024, booth 1025. Unilin will exhibit FlinTile at Domotex Hannover in hall 19-20 booth C22 and The International Surfaces Event in Las Vegas in January 2024 at booth 2361. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
West Yorkshire Police Dog Section needed a new facility to replace existing kennels which had served their time for over 30 years. Over a period of 10 months, the site was redeveloped, and the new kennels and associated accommodation were constructed. The site was successfully handed over and the new facilities were occupied on 7th November 2022. The development now provides a fit-for-purpose kennel block with essential facilities to meet compliance, welfare, and operational requirements; and the redesign and refurbishment of staff accommodation has addressed significant health and safety concerns and vast improvements in standards and welfare. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: “The upgrade in facilities ensures we can offer a National leading training product and that our Handlers and Dogs are as effective as possible in their deployments.” The Kennelbuild System is ready to stand up to the rigours of life within a busy Police Dog Support Unit. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of Eurocell’s most energy-efficient window solutions has been used as part of an award-winning large-scale residential development in Rainham, Kent. Long-term fabrication and installation partner A&B Glass, included the market-leading Logik PVC-U window system as an alternative to aluminium frames, to meet developer and homeowner demand at the Beaulieu Park housing scheme. Eurocell worked with A&B Glass, based in Sudbury, to manage the specification and supply of Logik for 90 plots covering a combination of new build residential homes and private apartments. Each stunning new home at Beaulieu Park benefits from the attractive finish Logik offers, in addition to its outstanding technical performance which includes low U-values and A++ rated energy efficiency. Work at Beaulieu Park took 18 months to complete. The development has since won the ‘Residential Super Major’ category at the Medway Housing Awards, where the judges complimented how the development has been moulded to create a strong sense of character and is confident in its design. A&B Glass has long standing experience supplying the new build market and an understanding of the balance that needs to be achieved between appearance and product effectiveness. Having manufactured and installed Logik across a wide number of new build developments throughout the UK, it is clear the system is answering the needs of the new build sector from both perspectives. Martin Benn, Head of New Build at Eurocell, comments: “Our partnership with A&B Glass on this prestigious new build development in Rainham sees the project, and future homeowners and residents, benefit from what Logik has to offer. This includes its unrivalled range of colour options, which support design ambitions, cost-effective, long-term performance, and strong sustainability credentials offered by all our profiles.” David Miller, New Build Sales Manager for A&B Glass, commented: “After reviewing the specification required for the window solution for this project, Eurocell’s Logik system was the ideal answer. The developer, McCullough Homes, alongside its architects, were seeking a modern and contemporary window aesthetic to complement the overall development design. So, the specification of more than 90 Logik frames in a highly appealing grey finish provides superb visual appeal across the whole project.” David Miller continues: “It is fantastic to have Eurocell’s technical expertise on hand should we need it. We have developed a close and mutually beneficial working relationship that has lasted over two decades, and both our companies understand the demands and issues housebuilders have when it comes to the new build market. “Logik is a highly specified window solution because it is proven to not only look good after installation, but it also ensures high performance for many years. It is fit for purpose, looks stylish, delivers strong thermal performance, and provides the finish the clients actively seek.” If you have any questions or would like more information then please email newbuild@eurocell.co.uk or call 0870 120 3003. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
