The first glimpse of the oculus staircase, the first of its kind in the UK, can be seen following its installation at Cardiff Innovation Campus’ sbarc | spark building. The finishing of the oculus staircase is a pivotal moment in the construction of the Innovation Campus. The sbarc | spark
Doors and windows are vital to your home for lots of reasons. They need to keep the weather out, provide security and of course compliment the aesthetics of the property as a whole. Because of all this, they can also be a costly purchase, and most people would agree that
It is common for people to think that in order to increase the value of their property that they need to make internal changes or even expand the property. Whilst these options will add value, it is also possible to increase the value of your property through garden landscaping. The
How much do you charge for your plumbing services? Is it a fair rate for both parties—all things considered? Deciding on the right price for your services is one of the very important business decisions you’ll ever make. This is what will determine whether you’ll progress or fail to make
While many businesses have experienced a downturn over the past 18 months, plumbers have found themselves in a spot of luck. This Is Money has highlighted the impressive year that Pimlico Plumbers had in 2020-21, and how this has been indicative of a wider market boom. The boom, partly due to a
Building product manufacturer IG Masonry Support is the first masonry support manufacturer to achieve carbon neutral status and is on its way to becoming a net zero energy company; the latest stage in IG Masonry Support’s sustainability journey. A manufacturer of innovative brickwork support systems, IG Masonry Support is leading
Winning the bid for a demolition project might’ve been a lot of work. But deciding on the best type of payload for the job is another process that you need to get right. An excavator is a staple in any demolition job. They’re invaluable pieces of machinery, and they come
Today’s homeowners are open to a plethora of designs when it comes to flooring. Updating your floor will go a long way to boost your property value significantly. It can also help you make a bold statement whether you desire a minimalistic or eclectic look. There is a high demand
With the news that pandemic restrictions will continue a little longer, the British Association of Landscape Industries announces that it will continue the work it has been doing over the last year to support the ornamental horticulture industry through unprecedented hardship. The Trade Association has been widely praised by its
The SALTO Neoxx electronic padlock’s new features and enhancement keep it at the cutting edge of the security industry and access control ecosystem. SALTO Systems has invested years of working with some of the best minds in the security industry – our community of security specifiers and installers – to
The first glimpse of the oculus staircase, the first of its kind in the UK, can be seen following its installation at Cardiff Innovation Campus’ sbarc | spark building. The finishing of the oculus staircase is a pivotal moment in the construction of the Innovation Campus. The sbarc | spark showpiece starts at the ground floor as a social stair and forms breakout zones to each level which are curated differently, becoming destinations to users on other floors. Bouygues UK, the construction company building the £300 million state-of-the-art Campus, worked with Taunton Fabrications to design and install the staircase, which was designed by architects Hawkins\Brown. The staircase is a sculptural, open staircase travelling through a slanting void. Its name is taken from the oculus design, which depicts an eye that allows light to flood into a space. It aims to drive engagement and collaboration between the varying departments and uses of the sbarc | spark building. The Innovation Campus is being built on the site of a disused rail yard and comprises two buildings. sbarc | spark will be home to the world’s first Social Science Research Park (SPARK), alongside CardiffInnovations@sbarc – Cardiff University’s creative space for start-ups, spinouts and partnerships. The Translational Research Hub will be home to two world-leading scientific research establishments – the Institute for Compound Semiconductors and Cardiff Catalysis Institute. Mike Baynham, Operations Director for Bouygues UK in Wales, and project lead on Cardiff Innovation Campus, said: “It’s amazing to have witnessed this staircase taking shape over the past few months. The expertise of Taunton Fabrications and the amazing vision of Hawkins\Brown have all come together to create a spectacle in this truly one-of-a-kind building. “The way the staircase was constructed is also very unique as the stairs weren’t installed directly above each other, as traditionally happens, but are offset at each floor level. Several methods of installation have been reviewed over months to come up with the best way to install the stairs safely and practically.” Mike explained: “Our great team here at Bouygues UK came up with a solution to install each stair after each floor slab was built and then construct the next floor above the stair with a cleaver configuration. These temporary works was designed by Taunton Fabrications and the RC frame Contractor, 4D Structures. This was then repeated on every floor. It is a complex but exciting construction project and is amazing to see it come to fruition.” Julia Roberts, Partner and Education & Research Sector Lead of Hawkins\Brown said: “The oculus staircase was designed as a stimulating setting that fosters collaboration between researchers, practitioners and policy-makers. To develop this design, we worked with our computational design team and produced a script that allowed us to create a parametric model of the oculus void for best coordination with structures and M&E design teams. This also enabled us to create a game engine walkthrough which you were able to experience on a VR headset – it proved to be a powerful design development tool which actively involved the University and building users. “This was the first time we utilised game engine technology on a project, and it’s very rewarding to see it taking shape on site.” Professor Damian Walford Davies, Pro Vice-Chancellor for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, said of the finishing of this milestone in the project: “The oculus is the light-flooded heart of our building: a visible symbol of the connections and configurations between people and projects that this space beautifully enables, as much as a practical thoroughfare.”
Doors and windows are vital to your home for lots of reasons. They need to keep the weather out, provide security and of course compliment the aesthetics of the property as a whole. Because of all this, they can also be a costly purchase, and most people would agree that it makes sense to invest in top quality options rather than cutting corners and feeling the consequences further down the line. But what about the hardware that secures doors and windows in place; is it still worth pushing the boat out in this instance? Here is a look at why you can definitely justify spending more rather than only being interested in economizing. Wear and tear is inevitable In terms of practicality, doors and windows are certainly a very functional part of the average house, which of course means that they have to put up with a lot of punishment day after day. Constant contact from humans, with doorknobs being yanked by excited kids and windows being flung open when the toast burns for the umpteenth time, means that wear and tear can take its toll on the hardware. When lower tier materials are used, this obviously increases the likelihood of faults and outright failures occurring. The old adage of ‘buy cheap, buy twice’ rings true here, so avoid wasteful spending if you can. Replacement is straightforward Another piece of good news about high end window and door parts, like those sold by Reflect Window, is that installing them is no harder than installing any other piece of hardware in this context. So long as you have the right tools to hand, you should be able to swap out worn components for fresh, sturdy replacements without needing to call out a specialist to take care of this. Even relative DIY novices can get to grips with well made hardware. Style is worth paying for While there are some budget-friendly hardware products which manage to look much more expensive than is actually the case, in reality you can easily tell the difference between parts that are at the higher end of the price spectrum because of the care, attention and material quality that has been ploughed into their design and production. This is not just about the way that the components look, but also about how they feel. Even if they look good on the outside, a quick touch of a cheaper handle or latch will instantly reveal its lower end nature. And as this is something you are going to be touching almost every day, spending more to improve the experience is certainly a consideration. Variety comes at a price Enter into any number of public buildings or mass-built homes and you will notice something of a cookie-cutter approach in terms of the hardware used on doors and windows. A handful of standard designs are reproduced over and over again, to the point that things can start to seem a little bland even if you cannot put your finger on exactly why this is. With high end hardware, variety is very much on the cards, and you can choose everything from ultra-modern examples to newly made options which have nevertheless been produced to fit in with design trends from bygone eras. Finishes are fabulous The final thing to think about when browsing high end hardware for doors and windows is the kind of finish you want. Variety will once again come into play, and whether you want a matte black look or one that veers towards polished brass or shiny plated metal, you should have your needs satisfied. Hopefully you now appreciate the advantages of investing in quality hardware. The only challenge you face now is choosing which to pick. Whether you rely on personal preference, professional reviews or customer feedback, do your research and you should be able to get hardware that ticks all the boxes.
It is common for people to think that in order to increase the value of their property that they need to make internal changes or even expand the property. Whilst these options will add value, it is also possible to increase the value of your property through garden landscaping. The garden is an integral part of the home and there is no denying that a well-designed and functional garden will add more value than a garden that is overgrown and unusable. So, what can you do to your garden to add value? Cut Back Overgrown Areas A garden that has overgrown hedges, shrubs and trees can leave a garden looking and feeling smaller. Opening up your garden and making it more inviting is easier than you might think, and it doesn’t take as much effort as you might think. By trimming and shaping hedges and removing old and dead shrubs, you can enhance space and bring in more light. Furthermore, if you have large trees that need trimming then you might want to consider calling on a team of Chelmsford tree surgeons to complete the work professionally and efficiently. Keep Your Lawn Maintained Believe it or not, a well-maintained lawn adds to the appeal of a home. A lawn that is mowed regularly and healthy will bring your garden to life. Whether it is sowing new seed or laying new turf, it is really important that you make your lawn the main focal point of your garden. This means that garden landscaping will leave it looking vivid, fresh and perfectly shaped. Shape Your Garden If your garden is a basic rectangle in shape or just basic in design, it can pay to invest in redesigning it. This means that you can install areas such as borders made from sleepers or curved pathways that are lined by shrubs and flowers to give your garden an element of character. It will allow you to get creative with the shape, creating designated areas that can be used for growing or relaxing. Add An Outdoor Space You can create designated areas that are made for use during the summer months. This can include installing decked areas or even a new and modern patio. This will add a level of practicality and functionality to your home that people will find hugely appealing. A garden that lacks any sort of seating area will become nothing more than an area that cannot be used and that will not add any value at all. Invest in New Plants The right blend of plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year will give your garden a lease of life. When the planting of flowers and shrubs is planned accordingly, it will ensure that plants can work together and create an established look that gives your garden a natural appeal throughout. Add Lighting Adding feature lighting to your garden will enable you to enhance those areas that are lacking light once the sun goes down. You can light up certain areas, add a dramatic effect and give your garden a sense of style, all of which will help to add to the value of your home.
How much do you charge for your plumbing services? Is it a fair rate for both parties—all things considered? Deciding on the right price for your services is one of the very important business decisions you’ll ever make. This is what will determine whether you’ll progress or fail to make a mark in the market. It’s worth noting that overpricing and underpricing could both have the same long-term effect. For instance, when you charge very low for your services, you’re likely to be exploited but end up with very low returns. Overpricing, on the other hand, might be a dealbreaker for most of your potential customers. As such, it’s imperative that you determine a price rate that’ll be fair for you and your clients. Remember, everyone is looking to reduce the plumbing costs in their construction projects and one way of doing that is by finding an affordable plumber. So, how can you find that sweet spot? Here are a few tips to keep in mind: 1. Determine your goals The first thing you’ll need to do is determine your weekly, monthly, and annual goals. How much are you hoping to earn by the end of the year? The answer to this question is dependent on many things. First, you’ll need to consider what you made the previous year. Obviously, your target should be a little higher than what you’ve already achieved before. Another thing that’ll determine how much you should set as your goal is the number of people you’ve employed. How many members do you have in your team? What’s their remuneration? Remember, the amount you pay to your employees will significantly affect their productivity. So, make sure to come up with a fair value. 2. What are your expenses? As a business, you probably have a lot of monthly and annual expenses. For instance, you need plumbing company software to enhance your productivity and help you track the overall performance of your team. You might also need to replace some plumbing tools or restock your accessories. A self-sustaining business should be able to take care of all these needs without requiring you to go back to your pocket. So, since plumbing is the main source of revenue, you might want to include these expenses in your monthly or quarterly goals. 3. What’s the average price range? Remember, you’re not operating in a vacuum. Therefore, it’s important that you make all your financial decisions with your competitors in mind. As earlier mentioned, the pricing of your products will have a huge impact on your business success. Both overpricing and underpricing will affect your revenue generation in one way or another. To find the right price range for your services, you’ll need to do a little research. But first, you have to determine the value of your products and services. Keep in mind that every plumbing job is different from another. Therefore, you’ll need to categorize all your services based on their complexity and the amount of time they require. Having done that, the next step in your research is to find out how much other plumbing service providers are charging their customers. Make sure you check at least three companies or agencies within your locality before making your final decision. This way, you’ll be fair to your business, your customers and also have a better chance of remaining competitive in the market. 4. What’s your pricing model? Another thing that might determine how much you charge at the end of the day is your pricing strategy. In fact, as you do your research, it’s important to look at those companies using the same pricing model as you. For instance, if your charges are per hour, it might be quite difficult to compare yourself to those using the fixed price method. If you’re new in the market, you might be tempted to charge a little less than the rest of the plumbers. But don’t go too low because potential clients might be skeptical about working with you since the general belief is that quality is directly proportional to the price. So, if the competitive price is USD$100 per hour, you might want to start at USD$90 rather than USD$80 per hour. Final thoughts How much you charge your customers can determine the fate of your business. Therefore, it’s imperative that you find the right pricing strategy from the word goes to avoid exploitation of either of the parties. Some of the things you’ll need to consider include your expenses, the number of employees you have, and the average competitive prices. With all these factors in mind, you can hardly go wrong with the pricing of your plumbing services.
While many businesses have experienced a downturn over the past 18 months, plumbers have found themselves in a spot of luck. This Is Money has highlighted the impressive year that Pimlico Plumbers had in 2020-21, and how this has been indicative of a wider market boom. The boom, partly due to a greater number of emergency plumbing jobs in strained homes, also points to a wider malaise in the British water network – and work to be done. Water safety concerns Britain is well-known for the safety of its drinking waters; Europe as a whole has extremely high standards on what is considered safe to drink. This doesn’t mean that the average home has safe water, however, and increasing numbers of homes are turning to filtration systems to filter out harmful bacteria and poor quality taste – especially in the more mineral-laden waters in the south. There’s good reason for this: a recent Guardian report noted how current water testing standards are not up to par, with potentially harmful chemicals being completely missed in the screening process. A worsening system Higher amounts of time spent at home have exacerbated the plumbing issue. More time in the home means more time spent in the kitchen, and, as the Manchester Evening News highlights, that means more waste being put into the already delicate water systems of the country. This has a reflexive impact on plumbing systems and fresh water. With the water systems of the country being put under fresh strain, analysts have called for investment in the sector. Positive signs That investment may be forthcoming with the news of new international interest in Britain’s plumbing industry. American private equity has moved into the market, with supply chain experts Ferguson recently selling its plumbing arm for £308m. With new investment and new pressures, the plumbing industry can arguably experience a renaissance that should, hopefully, put British homes back into a positive state with regards to the quality of the plumbing at home and the water homeowners are using. This is good news, both in terms of cleanliness of water and the straightforward running of the home. This has bigger impacts on the wider UK commercial and residential network. Good quality water systems are an imperative for public health and sanitation. Finding new ways to tackle the pressures of modern living on those systems should be a key policy objective for planners in the future.
Building product manufacturer IG Masonry Support is the first masonry support manufacturer to achieve carbon neutral status and is on its way to becoming a net zero energy company; the latest stage in IG Masonry Support’s sustainability journey. A manufacturer of innovative brickwork support systems, IG Masonry Support is leading the way in the Keystone Group, becoming the first company within the group as well as its sector to achieve carbon neutral status. As a Group committed to reducing the environmental impact of all operations, other companies within Keystone are now taking the necessary steps to achieve carbon neutral status. IG Masonry Support’s achievement feeds into the wider Keystone Group’s commitment to becoming increasingly environmentally responsible and sustainable organisations, through the reduction of carbon emissions. IG Masonry Support’s sustainability journey began in 2018. Year on year the company has implemented sustainability initiatives including upgrading forklift trucks to electrically operated systems and having 0% waste sent to landfill. Earlier this year, carbon neutral certification was awarded to the company’s B.O.S.S. A1 brick on soffit system product, a goal which formed one of the first steps in the company’s commitment to bringing innovative products to the marketplace in the most sustainable, carbon neutral way. Speaking of IG Masonry Support’s latest achievement Andy Neal, IG Masonry Support Managing Director said: “We take our environmental responsibility seriously and are making the necessary changes within our business practices to become a net carbon zero company. I am proud that we have now achieved carbon neutral status and are the first masonry support manufacturer in the UK to reach this goal. It is testament to our team’s passion and commitment to operating a sustainable business and to delivering sustainable products and solutions to our marketplace.” Amidst many initiatives implemented by IG Masonry Support, such as switching to a 100% renewable energy tariff, the company is continuing to proactively reduce its carbon footprint alongside SBTi (Science Based Targets Initiative) methodology. This methodology drives ambitious climate action in the private sector by enabling companies to set science-based emissions reduction targets. For IG Masonry Support, identifying Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions provided clarity of the environmental impact across all operations and raised opportunities for carbon reductions. As the company sees its emissions plummet following the SBTi, IG Masonry Support is on track to achieving the 1.5 degree Paris Agreement target, tackling climate change on a global scale. Going forward, the company will continue to address all areas for improvement with a sustainably-focussed supply chain, helping to source its responsible future. IG Masonry Support pledges to develop products that provide environmentally significant solutions to its customers and end users, amongst other goals including a conversion to 100% electric fleet by 2025. It will also develop Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its product portfolio, providing transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of its products. Doing so will empower the business and its people to make and adhere to the changes that are needed to reduce impact on the environment.
Winning the bid for a demolition project might’ve been a lot of work. But deciding on the best type of payload for the job is another process that you need to get right. An excavator is a staple in any demolition job. They’re invaluable pieces of machinery, and they come in different kinds for different projects. Here, we’ll explore how you can best identify the type of excavator to use for a project. 1. Performance The primary role of any construction equipment is to get the job done. And as an expert, you want to succeed in this project because it could mean more successful bids for your company’s future. Looking into the best excavator for the job means checking how much power it has to see the job through. Its hydraulic system must push for efficiency and allow the operator to be more productive. The right excavator will also be versatile, and can be utilized for various types of jobs. If your operator is working at an area with hindrances like walls and other dig sites, you’d want an excavator with a zero-tail or zero house swing. These excavators are safer to maneuver and are less likely to cause an impact. With the zero-tail feature, it’s less likely to hit the front and the sides of the excavator while moving. It’s for demolishing structures that are surrounded by obstacles. 2. Budget If you’re in the construction and demolition business, you will need to have enough money to acquire an excavator fit for the demolition job. But you need to know that there are other factors to consider when it comes to your budget. For instance, do you need a brand-new excavator or a used one? While it may be tempting to buy new one, it may be more practical to buy a used or reconditioned SmartCast Equipment. They are refurbished to do the same job without being too expensive. Money will cover maintenance and storage, targeted costs per hour, and operating costs. You also have the option to own or rent one. An excavator dry hire company will be able to provide one if you choose to lease. Larger excavators are considerably more expensive. You need the right class of excavator if you need it for a demolition job. Whether a small or larger building or structure, an excavator with longer arms will do the job with minimal damages to the surrounding area. 3. Demolition Size Excavators come in various sizes depending on the job. You don’t need a larger one that can take up space when you’re demolishing a small two-story building. High-level demolitions may need high-reach excavators with a large boom arm for buildings that are three stories and more. They are also for demolishing structures made of steel and concrete. The demolition size will also tell you two things: how long it will take and how much it will cost you. Typically, it can take up to eight days to demolish a building depending on the size. If you own an excavator for the job, you will have no renting expense to pay. But cost efficiency will depend on how much fuel and power it will need for the job. At times, the excavator type that you need will also depend on the area. If you need precision aiming and if the use of a wrecking ball is uncalled for, long-reach excavators are the best for the job. The size of the structure will also tell you if the excavator needs specific attachments to make the job easier. 4. Terrain Or Environment Matching the type of excavator you need to the environment you’ll work on will help you decide which one can quickly get around the site. Excavators move around with either tire wheels or tracks. Excavators with tracks are ideal for wide-open spaces. Other than demolition, they’re also suitable for construction and agriculture. The tracks are either made of rubber or steel. Wheeled excavators are versatile and have a wide array of uses. Apart from demolition and construction, it’s also used for mining, landscaping, and pipeline installations. They’re fuel-efficient and easier to operate. If you have both types of excavators, you will need to train operators on the proper driving of and the policies in handling them. They will also need to get the proper licensing. 5. Excavator Size There are three available sizes of excavators for demolition jobs: small, medium, and large excavators. Learning about these primary sizes will help you choose which one to use on a particular scale of the job at hand. Small classes are also called compact excavators and are created for smaller or hard-to-reach areas. They usually don’t need a lot of power to operate. Medium excavators are mainly for construction and landscaping as they have a standard tail for medium construction projects. The largest classes are often categorized for demolition projects. They have the most extended arms to reach great heights of buildings. They are also heavier and harder to navigate. 6. Attachments Does the structure have a pavement surrounding it? It will also help you decide what kind of attachment to use to dig through or destroy concrete material. The building will have pavements surrounding them, and a demolition excavator will need a hammer attachment to crush slabs of concrete. They are also helpful against rocks. In Conclusion The mentioned factors will help you decide which excavator to use. When you match its size and power to the demolition job, it will help you accomplish the project faster and save on operation costs. There are various types of excavators for different demolition jobs. It’s worth having them get as many jobs as you want.
Today’s homeowners are open to a plethora of designs when it comes to flooring. Updating your floor will go a long way to boost your property value significantly. It can also help you make a bold statement whether you desire a minimalistic or eclectic look. There is a high demand for sustainable and affordable flooring options than in the past few decades. Consequently, manufacturers are not leaving any stone unturned to meet the growing needs of consumers. The important factors you need to consider before choosing any flooring style include your budget, safety, needs, and climate. Some flooring designs have gone into extinction, while the following remains timeless and will transform your interior. Herringbone flooring This flooring trend has gained widespread popularity over the years. The herringbone pattern is unique and will complement other accessories in your home. It’s suitable for the entryway, kitchen, bathroom, and dining hall. Herringbone flooring comes in different sizes, tones, and formats. It can bring interest and depth into any room when you play around with texture. This type of flooring is budget-friendly, easy to maintain, and will give your home a modern look. Wood flooring Wood flooring has always been a constant trend year in and out. It’s useful for both personal and commercial property. Wood flooring is the ideal choice for individuals who want to take a break from modern living and embrace a rustic look in their homes. This flooring often undergoes staining to get a specific finish and it’s easy to maintain. The different types include bleached and blanched wood, fumed wood, and distressed wood. Laminate flooring Laminate flooring is among the flooring that will stand the test of time in this decade and beyond. It can mimic materials such as stone, tile, or wood. Laminate flooring now has the look and feel of these materials and features different types of finishes. Technological advancement is playing a major role in its design. Vinyl flooring Vinyl flooring is gradually finding its way into modern homes. It is warm and comfortable to the feet. This flooring comes in different varieties such as tiles, sheets, and planks. Some designs can mirror the look of tiles and wood. Vinyl flooring is water-resistant and perfect for areas with high traffic and the living room, which serves as a hub for entertaining guests. It is affordable, easy to maintain, and will take several years before fading or denting. Installing vinyl flooring is hassle-free too. Cool tones flooring Modern homes tend to have smaller spaces. Given this, most people prefer light-colored flooring as it can make their space appear bigger and brighter. Taking this approach can help you design a cozy space for better relaxation. The good thing is that your floor won’t look bland with this flooring option. These are just some of the hottest flooring designs right now. The choices out there can be overwhelming, and homeowners may not know where to start. Nevertheless, Floors Direct will consider the factors that matter to you, offer insights, and help you arrive at the best decision for your floor.
With the news that pandemic restrictions will continue a little longer, the British Association of Landscape Industries announces that it will continue the work it has been doing over the last year to support the ornamental horticulture industry through unprecedented hardship. The Trade Association has been widely praised by its membership for the help and support it has given throughout the crisis, including simplifying and disseminating government guidance and advice, hosting over 50 webinars throughout 2020, and even hosting its National Landscape Awards virtually for the first time in its 44-year history. From March of 2020, the Association worked quickly and diligently to bring its members up to date with accurate information in a time rife with uncertainty, working to set up a COVID-19 information hub on its website and producing two separate strategies for coping with the pandemic, including analysing feedback surveys, lobbying government, keeping the member base informed, and pivoting rapidly to presenting its events in an online format. Moving events online, including the National and Regional Annual General Meetings and the National Landscape Awards 2020, presented a unique set of challenges but brought surprising benefits, too, with more people able to join in more events and webinars from across the country. The ability to join digitally with partners also led to some of the most popular informative events in the Association’s history, with over 100 sign-ups across their three-part Demystifying Drainage series. Over 1000 people tuned in to see the National Landscape Awards 2020 broadcast, which featured a live chat and high member participation. Despite the many challenges imposed by the coronavirus, the Association was also able to successfully launch its rebrand in April 2021, updating its logos and brand identity to a fresh, contemporary look with a nod to its heritage. Its flagship publications, Landscape News and the Who’s Who Directory, were also produced to their usual high standard, with the former even receiving a brand refresh of its own in Spring 2021. The Association was even able to secure a brand new membership benefit, partnering with CAD and BIM specialists and Accredited Supplier Vectorworks UK to offer BALI Blueprint and BALI Blueprint+. The former is available to all designer members, whatever their level of membership, and the latter is exclusive to Accredited Designer members as it includes additional services that add incredible value for money, particularly if the member has already, or intends on, hiring an apprentice. Chief Executive of the British Association of Landscape Industries, Wayne Grills, commented: “This has been an undeniably difficult year across the industry and the wider world, with the twin pressures of the pandemic and uncertainties around Brexit causing disruption to nearly every business. We are enormously proud to have been able to so effectively support our membership, as well as adapt our own working practices and deliver large and organisation-changing pieces of work.” Liz Hughes, Marketing Manager for Accredited Supplier Provender Nurseries commented: “In light of all that is going on in the world, our industry and the tireless efforts put in by Landscape House at the moment should be widely applauded.” Paul Lynch, Director of Accredited Contractor Elmtree Garden Contractors commented: “I think the British Association of Landscape Industries’ support has been amazing and is just where being a member of a Trade Association comes into its own. We are definitely feeling the benefits of being a member.” For assistance and advice during the pandemic, the Association encourages people to visit their website bali.org.uk/covid. The website is updated frequently with all the latest news, restrictions and government schemes.
The SALTO Neoxx electronic padlock’s new features and enhancement keep it at the cutting edge of the security industry and access control ecosystem. SALTO Systems has invested years of working with some of the best minds in the security industry – our community of security specifiers and installers – to build the most reliable and smartest electronic padlock on earth. With exceptional attention to detail, premium materials, and all SALTO technology inside, our latest padlock – SALTO Neoxx – looks great while packing technological power. The SALTO Neoxx Padlock is a versatile locking solution that enables users to benefit from the advantages of electronic access control where previously it was only possible to use a mechanical locking solution (i.e., perimeter or fire access gates, industrial equipment yards and residential storage areas). Smart padlocks offer more security, easier maintenance, flexible access methods, and a better overview of the lock’s and user’s activity. As portable as conventional padlocks, security is enhanced by removing any lock’s most vulnerable part – the mechanical key – and adding the benefits of being operated with a mobile app and contactless smart key managed by an advanced web-based access control technology platform. The SALTO Neoxx Padlock offers a unique solution ideal for utility providers – electric power stations, telecom network services, industry applications, and more – and property services that need an additional level of security to control specific doors, like gates or storages, without losing a piece of convenience and control. These industries often require equipment and facilities on the perimeter or out in the field that, even though they are in a remote location, require the latest in electronic access control. In addition, because they are often outdoors, the electronic solution they need has to include a product that can weather the extreme elements from rain and dust to snow. Together, with the most complete locking platform on the market (electronic locks and cylinders, online readers, and locker locks) and SALTO core technology (SVN, BLUEnet, and JustIN Mobile system features) inside, the SALTO Neoxx padlock enables managing keys, locks, and access rights on-the-go, remotely from a single, highly visual and easy-to-use web-based interface. SALTO Neoxx G4 electronic padlock main features: High-security padlock made of hardened steel with a removable shackle model option, which can be completely detached from the padlock body. Shackle: Width 11mm – Length 50mm Security chain non- demountable model with safety chain to protect the padlock from burglary/dropping. Cover case with double-layered structure 70mm x 115mm x 32mm guarantees the ultimate protection from falls, shocks, and the most extreme environments or usage. RFID, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and NFC technologies onboard. Users can easily operate the electronic padlock with their smart card or with an iOS or Android smartphone. Compatible with SALTO Space – Data-on-Card– and the SALTO KS – Keys as a Service – cloud-based technology, it can be switched to any of SALTO’s technology platforms at any time without changing the hardware. Tested up to 130,000 operations on a standard set of batteries (4 x LR1). Monitor battery status (to optimize maintenance and battery life). Changing or removing batteries is simple and secure – you only need standard LR1 batteries and a special tool. IP68 certification: Waterproof performance and high durability. Tested against extreme temperatures: Including freezing conditions (-35ºC) and high heat (+65ºC). Fully certified according to CE, FCC, MIT, Mechatronic certification EN 16864:2018 and IK09.