Products & Materials : Tools & Equipment News
Shocking 79% of PPE from non-registered providers fails BSIF tests

Shocking 79% of PPE from non-registered providers fails BSIF tests

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued a warning to those overseeing personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety product procurement after their latest tests on non-member products highlight the widespread availability of substandard and even dangerous items. Between December 2022 and December 2023, the BSIF examined 123 non-member products,

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Reliable emergency safety showers rely on polycarbonate enclosures

Reliable emergency safety showers rely on polycarbonate enclosures

Aqua Safety Showers is one of the UK’s leading providers of emergency safety showers. Essential for the welfare of operatives working in environments involving chemical hazards, the shower systems depend on their electrical supply for power, control and alarms. Robust junction boxes are vital to ensure long-term system reliability, so

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The Strengths of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment In Construction

The Strengths of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment In Construction

The paramount concern for environmental sustainability in our era prompts a transformative shift within the construction industry towards greener and more eco-friendly practices. The adoption of hybrid and electric construction equipment stands at this evolution’s forefront, revolutionizing builders’ and contractors’ project approaches. This article delves into the burgeoning trend of

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Atlas Copco puts its portable air compressors through the ultimate four-stage toughness test (4 of 4)

Atlas Copco puts its portable air compressors through the ultimate four-stage toughness test (4 of 4) – watch the video!

Over the last month, Atlas Copco’s portable air compressors have survived a rock avalanche, emerged unscathed from Poseidon’s salty deluge, and survived the dusty embrace of the Sandman himself… What else could these brave units possibly be faced with?! Well, the most bone-chilling challenge has been saved ‘til last.  As

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Products & Materials : Tools & Equipment News

New senior Aggreko appointment set to supercharge support for the energy transition in Europe

New senior Aggreko appointment set to supercharge support for the energy transition in Europe

Following the appointment of a new President for Europe, Aggreko has formalised its plans for 2024 and beyond with the launch of Energising Change, its new sustainability framework which places supporting the energy transition front and centre. Robert Wells – former Managing Director of Aggreko’s businesses across Africa, Middle East, & Asia Pacific and head of global events– has been appointed by the business as European President as well as retaining responsibility for Global Events. With a focus on enabling European customers to access new, greener technologies to support with their decarbonisation process, Wells is set to embed the Energising Change framework in the region. Energising Change shapes how Aggreko works both internally and alongside its diverse portfolio of customers across the world. It allows Aggreko and the companies it works with – from a wide range of sectors with varying requirements – to embed low-carbon power and temperature control technologies and more efficient ways of working. The framework forms a core part of the business’s proposition in a time when clearer action is needed to balance energy resilience, economic viability and action on climate. Central to the framework is a series of major investments that give industry more immediate access to cleaner and greener energy sources, such as the expansion of its fleet of small, mid and large-size battery energy storage solutions (BESS). BESS, giving energy intensive sectors such as manufacturing, data centres and construction the opportunity to integrate cleaner power sources on site, in addition to providing vital resilience, an area that is increasing in importance for companies across Europe. They will also play a key role in decarbonising the European construction sector, which is typically reliant on diesel power, though hybridised applications. The latest investment is part of the over $140m earmarked in 2023 and 2024 to expand Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades™ fleet, which included new boilers, Stage V generation, batteries and chillers. Aggreko will use these investments to support the decarbonisation of many of its key sectors such as manufacturing, PCR. Events, construction and data centres. The approach is already being evidenced in projects across the continent including a refinery in Romania where using a Greener Upgrade solution has already reduced carbon emissions, waste and operating costs by a substantial amount. The hybrid solution of solar photovoltaic and combined heat and power recovers waste heat from exhaust gases and uses a gas byproduct from the company’s process and produces electricity for the grid and onsite operations. Energy resilience is another core driver of Energising Change, reflecting a world where high energy costs and grid limitations continue present a challenge to economic development. Supporting energy intensive sectors such as manufacturing, construction and data centres, the company is set to continue work with customers to introduce solutions which improve onsite resilience in addition to reducing environmental impact as they transition to a renewable energy model. Energising Change builds on Aggreko’s reputation as a provider of bridging energy solutions. The new framework commits to supporting the move to renewables by using temporary solutions to support the construction and commissioning of tomorrows energy systems. Working with key construction customers, Aggreko has been able to trial the use of BESS in conjunction with alternative fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to see emissions and fuel consumption reductions of 45%. Commitment to being energy efficiency also forms part of the framework, with the company expanding its approach to digitalisation via remote monitoring and data analysis services. This will ensure equipment is running optimally, no matter where it’s deployed. Robert Wells, Europe President at Aggreko, added: “Energising Change explains our vision, purpose and objectives. It sets targets and creates action for our business and signals to customers we are committed to positive change that’s delivered pragmatically. As the focus on building resilience and making the renewable energy transition intensifies, Aggreko is committed to continuing its support of customers across Europe.” For more information on Energising Change, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Shocking 79% of PPE from non-registered providers fails BSIF tests

Shocking 79% of PPE from non-registered providers fails BSIF tests

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued a warning to those overseeing personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety product procurement after their latest tests on non-member products highlight the widespread availability of substandard and even dangerous items. Between December 2022 and December 2023, the BSIF examined 123 non-member products, assessing advertised performance, marking adequacy and compliance with standards. Shockingly, only 21% – 26 products – proved fully compliant, leaving a staggering 79%—97 products—falling short of testing criteria. Worryingly, many of these substandard products are still available and in use, posing serious risks to unsuspecting users. Examples of non-member product failures  Some examples of products from non-BSIF-registered members that failed testing include a Flame Retardant Parka, bought from an online retailer. During flame spread testing, the outer layer burnt through, exposing the inner layer, which then caught fire, resulting in the entire coat being consumed by flames. The garment also lacked correct documentation and markings in line with PPE Regulation requirements. A pair of safety boots from the same retailer failed toe cap compressions tests. They were also over ten years old and supplied with outdated certification, didn’t have the correct documentation and were not correctly marked.  Elsewhere, a pair of safety spectacles, acquired from a high street retailer failed an impact resistance test, with lenses cracking/breaking when struck by a projectile. The spectacles also lacked markings and the required documentation. Despite promises to remove the product from sale, it was still available over two months later. Three pairs of protective gloves from a high street retailer failed testing against abrasion, returning just half the claimed performance level. They were also incorrectly marked and missing the required documentation. When contacted by the BSIF, the retailer said they would take action but the products were still on sale four months later.   Meanwhile, a Respiratory Protective Mask (FFP3) purchased from a PPE distributor performed at only half the required level during filter penetration tests against contaminants and had missing documentation. When contacted, the distributor didn’t act to remove the product from sale or initiate a recall. BSIF member test results  The non-member test result findings sharply contrast the results of tests conducted on products supplied by BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, who are committed to only selling certified PPE and trading honestly and ethically. Of the 348 tests completed on products from Registered Safety Suppliers between December 2022 and December 2023, 91% – 315 products – passed immediately. Even for the 9% – 33 products – initially falling short, all issues were promptly addressed and rectified. 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 offered PPE and safety equipment meets the correct standards, fully complies with regulations, and bears the necessary UKCA and/or CE markings. Choosing a Registered Safety Supplier ensures not only genuine products fit for purpose but also authentic information and guidance. Commenting on the latest statistics, BSIF CEO Alan Murray says: “Our latest test results show that you don’t have to look very far to find examples of inadequate and substandard PPE and safety equipment for sale in the UK. Shockingly, many unsuspecting users are relying on these compromised products for their safety.  “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.  “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 shield.” For a full list of Registered Safety Suppliers, visit: www.registeredsafetysupplierscheme.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Reliable emergency safety showers rely on polycarbonate enclosures

Reliable emergency safety showers rely on polycarbonate enclosures

Aqua Safety Showers is one of the UK’s leading providers of emergency safety showers. Essential for the welfare of operatives working in environments involving chemical hazards, the shower systems depend on their electrical supply for power, control and alarms. Robust junction boxes are vital to ensure long-term system reliability, so the manufacturer has partnered with Spelsberg for the durability they need. To deliver customer demand with a fast build, the enclosures must also be quick to wire up and install. In environments where hazardous substances are in use, human safety is imperative. This means that for locations such as wastewater treatment plants and industrial production facilities, where operatives often work in close proximity to potentially harmful chemicals, close availability of an emergency safety shower is a critical requirement. Aqua Safety Showers, based in Wigan, supplies emergency safety showers to contractors across the UK. These installers fit and support Aqua Safety Showers’ range of plumbed-in, mains-fed showers and eye-wash systems, predominantly to industrial facilities, but wherever personnel might come into contact with potentially harmful chemicals. Reachable in 10 seconds Today in the UK, stringent health & safety regulations covering the potential of chemicals coming into eye contact mean that many environments require a system with a plumbed-in eye wash. Should the system be needed, a continual water source enables constant irrigation of the eye. Alternatively, if chemicals come into contact with the skin, the Health & Safety Executive’s Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations might require a 15-minute shower wash-off. The close proximity of eye washes and showers to the hazard are necessary too, and the recommendation is that these systems should be reachable within 10 seconds. Aqua Safety Showers supplies around 200 units a year, each one built to order, and the company also features on the framework supplier list of national water authorities and various blue-chip industrial corporations. All the company’s emergency safety showers are manufactured to ANSI or BS standards. With a highly robust, long-lasting construction, Aqua Safety Showers only manufactures with stainless steel and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) materials, which also ensures that their showers resist corrosion. For safety, to ensure constant availability, all tank fed safety showers are provided with a power failure alarm to enable rapid inspection. Aqua Safety Showers also includes features such as digital water temperature displays as standard, along with   photo luminous shower signage for clear viewing in darker environments.  Durable enclosures with high IP rating In addition to a power connection, each emergency safety shower needs electrical inputs for system telemetry and alarms. Aqua Safety Showers has partnered with Spelsberg UK for the supply of junction boxes that protect these terminal connections. As per installation guidance, junction boxes should be positioned in as safe and sheltered a location as possible. Even though the enclosure is fitted to the rear of the shower unit, out of the direct water flow, these protective boxes feature an IP66 rating, necessary to prevent any water ingress. As the showers are always installed in rugged, industrial environments, the enclosures also need to afford strong protection for their electrical connections. Spelsberg’s enclosures feature high impact resistance as a result of their robust polycarbonate construction. As Aqua Safety Systems supplies its range pre-wired, ready for installation by the contractor, ease of using the enclosures is crucial to minimise resources and complexity in build. “Spelsberg makes the junction boxes with all the terminals and dividers set up, ready for us to come in with our wiring,” explains Janet Waine, Managing Director, Aqua Safety Showers. “They’re very easy to use. Thanks to Spelsberg’s integrated knock-outs, we establish the cable entry points, dependent on the configuration the customer needs, and then we seal each cable with the special cable glands that maintain the IP rating.” Positive customer service Thanks to Spelsberg UK’s in-house customisation team, the enclosure manufacturer also provides a printing service, applying Aqua Safety System’s logo and contact details to the box. This not only saves time and cost for the shower manufacturer, but it also ensures a long-lasting finish. The company has used Spelsberg enclosures since it began trading in 2016, but Janet explains that she has specified Spelsberg enclosures since she began in the market nearly 30 years ago. “Spelsberg is a really easy and pleasant company to work with. The support is great, and if there’s anything we need to serve our customers, the Spelsberg team are there to support us. There’s always a quick turnaround, and the quality of the enclosures is always really high.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Arco Launches Industry First MATS and EUSR Certified Blended Learning Rooftop Training Course

Arco Launches Industry First MATS and EUSR Certified Blended Learning Rooftop Training Course

UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR). Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working at height training course. The course aims to provide delegates with the skills and experience required to safely access flat roofs in protected and unprotected areas. The blended option allows delegates of the course to complete the educational section of the course online, previously the entire course had to be completed in-person in a structured one-day session. This blended learning version of the Rooftop Worker Scheme provides a flexible learning approach with bespoke integrated virtual reality exercises. It is also more cost effective than the traditional course at a 20% reduced rate while offering the same quality of learning, experience and certification. As a blended learning course, participants will be required to complete seven online modules and a practical training and assessment session at one of four possible sites. The online portion of the course has training material that can be accessed by delegates as often as required. Once completed, candidates have 90 days to attend a practical assessment at one of Arco’s state of the art Safety Centres in Stafford, Bracknell, Trafford or Linlithgow (Scotland). Topics covered in the Rooftop Worker Scheme syllabus include: • Legislation for working at height• Risk assessment awareness• Rooftop hazards and control measures• PPE – pre use checks and fitting harness, helmet, fall arrest and work positioning lanyards• Safe use of portable ladders• Edge protection• Horizontal and vertical systems (fixed and temporary)• Climbing techniques using harnesses, lanyards, and fixed systems• Awareness of emergency procedures Falls from height continued to be the number one cause of work-related deaths in 2023 according to the latest statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Steve Dawson, Manager – Working at Height Training at Arco Professional Safety Services, said: “When it comes to working from height, regard for safety is paramount. We’re proud to be able to offer this brand-new training course carefully designed with the considerations to keep people safe when working on rooftops. As industry leaders in working at height practices, Arco understands the necessity to provide these learning opportunities with specialist support to ensure the safety of workers where it matters most.” This course is designed for all personnel that are required to access flat roof areas using a variety of access systems and harness-based fall protection equipment during their duties. The Rooftop Worker Scheme certificate will be valid for three years upon completion of the course. To find out more about this course, see upcoming course dates and to enquire about booking, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/training/course-finder/working-at-height-training/rooftop-safety-training/rooftop-safety-blended-learning Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Aggreko says considered approach needed to address humidity threat to construction projects from latest storms

Aggreko says considered approach needed to address humidity threat to construction projects from latest storms

With the opening days of 2024 seeing widespread flooding across Europe in the wake of Storm Henk, temporary power and temperature control solutions provider, Aggreko, is raising awareness within the construction industry of the risks to projects posed by high humidity and advocating a strategic approach to dehumidification.    Using the wrong equipment could lead to potential long-term issues for construction projects, with Aggreko advising that solely relying on heaters to dry sites could cause issues, as flooding continues to worsen across the UK and Europe. Storm Henk continues a long-term trend. According to the Met Office, the period between 1991 to 2020 was an average 1.75% wetter than the period 1981-2010 and 7% wetter than 1961-1990 for the UK overall, which shows that the issue of increased rainfall is only getting worse[1]. The European Union recently published figures showing that over 14,000 areas across its member states are at significant risk of flooding, amid a year that has seen widespread disruption[2]. This inclement weather can cause problems for construction sites, especially with the issue of humidity which can cause irreparable damage to critical assets, particularly when there is excess rainfall. According to moisture control experts at Aggreko, relative humidity on construction sites should be kept within an optimal range of 40-60%. Dehumidification systems help to reduce humidity, meaning that these issues can be eliminated before they cause problems and bring delays. Relying on heating systems, which are less effective at reducing humidity levels, can cause more damage to building materials and structures. This potentially can lead to issues such as increased mould growth, creating a deceptive sense of dryness and increased condensation. Tom Adlington, Building Services & Construction Sector Sales Manager at Aggreko UK & Ireland said: “Flooding, such as that seen over the new year, has the potential to cause time delays and budget problems for a construction site. Which is why it’s imperative the right approach to dehumidification is taken. “Heat alone cannot sufficiently dehumidify a site, which is why we advocate for a combined solution. This incorporates various technologies, including industrial dehumidifiers, to provide heat, air movement and moisture removal. Combining products such as power, dehumidification and heating can help create a complete solution that reduces project costs without compromising on reliability. For more information on effective dehumidification download the Aggreko guide https://www.aggreko.com/en-gb/resources/the-hidden-cost-of-humidity-on-site. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The Strengths of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment In Construction

The Strengths of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment In Construction

The paramount concern for environmental sustainability in our era prompts a transformative shift within the construction industry towards greener and more eco-friendly practices. The adoption of hybrid and electric construction equipment stands at this evolution’s forefront, revolutionizing builders’ and contractors’ project approaches. This article delves into the burgeoning trend of using such equipment; it scrutinizes not only its environmental benefits but also posits potential implications on industries while highlighting these technologies’ integral role in shaping sustainable building practices. The Rise of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment Diesel engines, renowned for their power and durability yet notorious for high emissions and fuel consumption, usually serve as the backbone of traditional construction machinery. However; a new era emerges with hybrid and electric equipment in construction—marking a departure from this standard approach—to provide an alternative that is cleaner: more sustainable. Combining traditional internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems characterizes hybrid construction equipment. Advanced technologies underpin these systems, optimizing fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions. Conversely, fully electric construction equipment functions exclusively on electric power; this eliminates the necessity for any usage of fossil fuels. Aligning with global initiatives to reduce carbon footprints and combat climate change, this shift gravitates towards electrification. Environmental Benefits of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment The significantly reduced environmental impact stands as a prime advantage of hybrid and electric construction equipment: traditional diesel-powered machinery contributes to air pollution–emitting pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter; this causes respiratory issues. Electric construction equipment offers an attractive contrast; it yields zero tailpipe emissions–a factor that promotes cleaner air quality not only on construction sites but also within surrounding communities. Moreover, electric motors outperform internal combustion engines in terms of energy efficiency; this superiority consequently reduces overall energy consumption. The resultant decrease not only mitigates the demand for fossil fuels but also delivers long-term cost savings to construction companies. Industry Implications and Adoption Challenges Both challenges and opportunities accompany the adoption of hybrid and electric construction equipment in the industry: notably, a major hurdle emerges–the higher upfront cost of these technologies relative to traditional machinery. Nevertheless, with advancing technology and increasing production scales; an expected decrease in costs promises to render these sustainable options more accessible for a broader range of construction companies. Promoting eco-friendly construction practices, government incentives and regulations also encourage the adoption of hybrid and electric equipment; specific environmental standards necessitate their use in many regions. Adopting sustainable machinery can contribute to compliance with these regulations, thereby enhancing construction projects’ adherence to environmental criteria. Operational Advantages of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment Hybrid and electric construction equipment, aside from their environmental advantages, gain popularity due to the operational benefits they offer: Electric motors yield instant torque – a performance that rivals or surpasses traditional engines. Furthermore; these machines function with reduced noise pollution on construction sites–a critical yet often overlooked aspect for worker wellbeing and nearby communities’ welfare. The greater design flexibility that electric drivetrains offer, due to their modular nature, often results in innovative equipment configurations: these not only enhance efficiency but also maneuverability. Lower maintenance costs and increased reliability are direct benefits; this can be attributed to two factors – the absence of traditional transmissions, coupled with the simplicity of electric motors. Supply Chain Accessibility and Support The accessibility of hybrid and electric machinery through a dependable construction equipment supplier is a pivotal consideration for construction companies exploring these technologies. When construction firms collaborate with suppliers boasting robust supply chains, they guarantee an uninterrupted procurement process; this reduces potential challenges and delays in acquiring essential equipment. Addressing Range Anxiety The limitation imposed by battery range presents a significant challenge in the realm of electric construction equipment; however, ongoing advancements in battery technology are actively addressing this concern. Notably, Lithium-ion batteries– becoming more energy-dense, lightweight and cost-effective — have surmounted their previous limitations: as a result, they render electric construction machinery not just feasible but highly advantageous for an expanding spectrum of projects. The Future of Sustainable Construction Practices The construction industry’s continued prioritization of sustainability promises a bright future for hybrid and electric construction equipment. Ongoing technological advancements in these areas, combined with an increasing awareness regarding the environmental impact of construction activities, are positioning electric machinery as a crucial actor in shaping the industry’s evolution. Embracing hybrid and electric equipment, construction companies contribute not only to a greener planet but also position themselves as leaders in sustainable building practices. The demand for eco-friendly construction solutions is likely to escalate; regulatory requirements, environmental consciousness—both significant influencers—and the enduring economic benefits of reduced operating costs coupled with increased efficiency will drive this increase. Concluding, the construction industry’s integration of hybrid and electric equipment represents a positive stride towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. As technology advances incessantly–and adoption proliferates exponentially–the commitment to cleaner, greener building practices will reshape our construction landscape with unprecedented efficiency. This investment in these technologies transcends mere machinery; it manifests as an avant-garde stake for both sectors—the future resilience of constructions along with planetary sustainability at large.

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Arco Professional Safety Services invests in expansion of equipment hire capabilities

Arco Professional Safety Services invests in expansion of equipment hire capabilities

Arco Professional Safety Services, the UK’s leading safety products and services provider, is expanding its equipment hire capabilities nationwide with new funding into four fully stocked hire centres in key locations across the UK. The expansion of hire products will enable customers to access a wider range of hire equipment from leading specialist suppliers, including quality-assured confined space, gas detection, respiratory protective and other fall arrest prevention equipment. All hire orders will be available direct from the Arco Bracknell, Doncaster, Linlithgow and Warrington Safety Centres or can be ordered and collected at local Arco stores via a new collection service.  Arco offers two types of hire solutions, standard hire, for short term requirements with a minimum contract of one week that can be extended as needed and contract hire that is offered for longer terms, up to five years, that also includes inspection, servicing and maintenance of equipment during the hire term. Alongside this expanded hire proposition, customers can also purchase any of the equipment from Arco’s range of safety products should they require a permanent solution. Gareth Liptrot, Hire & Maintenance Manager, Arco Professional Safety Services said: “As experts in safety, we are committed to providing a joined-up approach for customers offering accessible, high-quality equipment that can be acquired in the most convenient way. “Our increased investment in hire stock at our nationwide Safety Centres and our new store collection service demonstrates our commitment to improving customer convenience and will enable greater access to quality stock and ease of service for any job our customers are undertaking.” To find out more about Arco’s comprehensive hire offering, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/equipment/equipment-hire

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Nomination deadline for annual Pump Industry Awards fast approaching

Nomination deadline for annual Pump Industry Awards fast approaching

The BPMA’s annual awards programme has been recognising and rewarding the achievements of pump businesses, large and small for over two decades. Throughout that time, it has become one of the leading events to serve the industrial and commercial arena. So, if you have a pump related product, system, or service that you feel is deserving of industry-wide recognition, this is the ideal platform. Maybe you are proud of a particular pump project, or your overall environmental credentials? Perhaps you have a staff member who has gone above and beyond or you believe your commitment to skills development is worthy of acknowledgment. Whatever your engineering or business successes might be, third-party endorsement of your key achievements through this awards process delivers unrivalled promotional opportunities. The closing date for all entries is Friday 5th January 2024, so you now have just over a month to consider, prepare, and submit your entries. Entering is simple, and by putting forward a nomination you are demonstrating confidence and pride in the quality of your work, people, products, and projects. Submissions are sought for activities and achievements that took place in the 18-month period up to December 2023, and the online entry forms will remain on the dedicated awards website – www.pumpindustryawards.com – until the entry deadline of 5.00pm on Friday 5th January 2024. Please make a note of this important date, and begin considering which key developments, initiatives, staff, and successes you will be putting forward for wide spread recognition. Maintaining the early Spring timeline, and following the huge success of the 2023 event, the next Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony will take place on Thursday 14th March 2024 at our fantastic venue – the Hilton at St George’s Park in Burton on Trent. Situated on the edge of the National Forest, this impressive hotel is part of St. George’s Park – the training ground for all 28 English national football teams – and recognised the World over as the Home of English Football. Sporting excellence is synonymous with this venue, and early next year it will once again become the location for heralding engineering excellence across the pump sector. This key sector of industry continues to play a crucial role in ensuring our food production, utilities, manufacturing processes, transportation and other essential services are maintained, and the 2024 awards programme, will again give special recognition to those companies and individuals who have not just met, but exceeded the demands and challenges presented by the sectors served. This recognition and acknowledgement will be represented by eight award categories, that collectively honour the full breadth of product and service delivery by the pump industry:  •          Product of the Year – Sponsored by DFA Media Group •          Project of the Year – Sponsored by AESSEAL •          Environmental Contribution of the Year – Sponsored by SPP Pumps •          Manufacturer of the Year – Sponsored by WEG UK •          Distributor of the Year – Sponsored by Caprari / Calpeda •          Supplier of the Year – Sponsored by Wilo •          Contribution to Skills & Training – Sponsored by Crest Pumps •          Rising Star Award – Sponsored by World Pumps Once again, we have secured the support and backing from a host of leading brands, all of whom recognise the value and importance of promoting excellence across the sector. In addition to our main category sponsors (highlighted above) there are also other sponsorship options to help support specific elements of the 2024 presentation evening. Several opportunities still exist, so please get in touch if you would like your brand aligned to outstanding engineering achievement. Wayne Rose, Director and CEO at the British Pump Manufacturers Association, commented: “This year’s awards ceremony – the 22nd such event – was as good as any I can remember. The atmosphere was fantastic, and the competition intense. Business and professional excellence deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated and these awards do just that for this most important of sectors. I would therefore encourage all those involved in the pump industry to prepare and submit their entries for the 2024 awards programme.” For further information on the 2024 Pump Industry Awards, and to submit your entry(s) please visit the website – www.pumpindustryawards.com – or call Event Director, Andrew Castle on 07785 290034. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Atlas Copco puts its portable air compressors through the ultimate four-stage toughness test (4 of 4)

Atlas Copco puts its portable air compressors through the ultimate four-stage toughness test (4 of 4) – watch the video!

Over the last month, Atlas Copco’s portable air compressors have survived a rock avalanche, emerged unscathed from Poseidon’s salty deluge, and survived the dusty embrace of the Sandman himself… What else could these brave units possibly be faced with?! Well, the most bone-chilling challenge has been saved ‘til last.  As this series comes to a close, tune in to see a portable air compressor’s notoriously robust design and top-quality materials tested against the deep freeze of the great outdoors; after being buried in 250kg of snow, and where temperatures drop to a bone-chilling -25°C. Will it be snowed under, or will it prove itself – once and for all – the toughest of the tough?  Watch the final video of our four-part series below… Winter is coming! Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Arco Expands Hire Expansion Capabilities

ARCO Professional Safety Services invests in expansion of equipment hire capabilities

Arco Professional Safety Services, the UK’s leading safety products and services provider, is expanding its equipment hire capabilities nationwide with new funding into four fully stocked hire centres in key locations across the UK. The expansion of hire products will enable customers to access a wider range of hire equipment from leading specialist suppliers, including quality-assured confined space, gas detection, respiratory protective and other fall arrest prevention equipment. All hire orders will be available direct from the Arco Bracknell, Doncaster, Linlithgow and Warrington Safety Centres or can be ordered and collected at local Arco stores via a new collection service.  Arco offers two types of hire solutions, standard hire, for short term requirements with a minimum contract of one week that can be extended as needed and contract hire that is offered for longer terms, up to five years, that also includes inspection, servicing and maintenance of equipment during the hire term. Alongside this expanded hire proposition, customers can also purchase any of the equipment from Arco’s range of safety products should they require a permanent solution. Gareth Liptrot, Hire & Maintenance Manager, Arco Professional Safety Services said: “As experts in safety, we are committed to providing a joined-up approach for customers offering accessible, high-quality equipment that can be acquired in the most convenient way. “Our increased investment in hire stock at our nationwide Safety Centres and our new store collection service demonstrates our commitment to improving customer convenience and will enable greater access to quality stock and ease of service for any job our customers are undertaking.” To find out more about Arco’s comprehensive hire offering, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/equipment/equipment-hire Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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