Trades & Services : Fire Prevention News
Procurement solution to tackle fire and safety risks in NHS and Public Sector buildings, goes live

Procurement solution to tackle fire and safety risks in NHS and Public Sector buildings, goes live

Leading corporate services provider, NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has launched a new framework agreement, Building Safety and Fire Compliance, to address the need for robust fire safety systems in healthcare settings. This comes as healthcare buildings across England face mounting infrastructure challenges, emphasising the need for fire safety,

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Injecta Fire Barrier Presents at London Stock Exchange

Injecta Fire Barrier Presents at London Stock Exchange

Injecta Fire Barrier was proud to present at the London Stock Exchange during Light Science Technologies (LST) Holdings PLC’s Capital Markets Day on 26th February in the City of London. The event provided a valuable platform to discuss recent progress, financial performance and the outlook for 2025 and beyond. Recognising

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IFE Engineering Council registrants surpass 1,000

IFE Engineering Council registrants surpass 1,000

The Institution of Fire Engineers’ Engineering Council register has now surpassed 1,000 registrants, showcasing the commitment to competence and ethical practice from IFE members. As part of the registration process, applicants must demonstrate their competence and commitment via peer review against the UK Standard for Engineering Competence and Commitment (UK-SPEC).

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Hochiki Training Academy Celebrates Successful First Year

Hochiki Training Academy Celebrates Successful First Year

Hochiki, a global leader in life safety solutions, is celebrating the first anniversary of its Training Academy. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Hochiki’s commitment to education and advancement within the fire safety industry. With over a century of experience, Hochiki has earned a reputation for manufacturing reliable and

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

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

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

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Latest Issue
Issue 326 : Mar 2025

Trades : Fire Prevention News

Procurement solution to tackle fire and safety risks in NHS and Public Sector buildings, goes live

Procurement solution to tackle fire and safety risks in NHS and Public Sector buildings, goes live

Leading corporate services provider, NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has launched a new framework agreement, Building Safety and Fire Compliance, to address the need for robust fire safety systems in healthcare settings. This comes as healthcare buildings across England face mounting infrastructure challenges, emphasising the need for fire safety, building maintenance, and compliance across NHS estates and the wider public sector. The framework agreement provides a full compliance offer, including active and passive fire safety, fire risk assessment, and consultancy services, essential to mitigate risks such as life hazards, liability, operational disruption, reputational damage, and legal penalties. Brendan Griffin-Ryan, NHS SBS senior category manager, highlighted the urgency: “The increased emphasis on fire safety brought about by the dreadful Grenfell Tower disaster has shown that some NHS buildings fail to meet modern safety standards and underscores why fire safety compliance and protocols are paramount.” NHS England estimates the cost to eradicate the NHS maintenance backlog at £13.8bn, surpassing the £13.6bn total cost of running the NHS estate. The National Audit Office reported 5,400 clinical incidents in 2023-2024 due to infrastructure failures and poor conditions. Trust documents reveal deficiencies risking fires, floods, electrical failures, and hazardous material exposure. Government recognition of this issue led to a £1bn funding boost for essential repairs and upgrades, with £102m earmarked for the first phase of GP surgery upgrades. The New Hospital Programme, backed by £15bn, aims to modernise NHS buildings over several phases. NHS SBS’s framework agreement allows procurement teams to access vetted suppliers for specialist services like asbestos management, legionella treatment, authorising engineers, and fire safety, quickly and compliantly. It includes suppliers from multinationals to regional small and medium-sized enterprises. Griffin-Ryan concludes: “The NHS must prioritise fire safety to prevent incidents similar to Grenfell from occurring in healthcare settings, where the impact could be catastrophic. Our framework agreement provides the NHS with a comprehensive range of services. It aligns with key health and safety regulations—ensuring seamless integration and adherence to all compliance in critical areas like fire safety, water treatment, and asbestos management, crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of NHS buildings, protecting patients, staff, and visitors.” For more information, contact the NHS SBS team at: sbs.hello@nhs.net. For more information about NHS SBS framework agreements click: Framework Agreements | NHS SBS  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Injecta Fire Barrier Presents at London Stock Exchange

Injecta Fire Barrier Presents at London Stock Exchange

Injecta Fire Barrier was proud to present at the London Stock Exchange during Light Science Technologies (LST) Holdings PLC’s Capital Markets Day on 26th February in the City of London. The event provided a valuable platform to discuss recent progress, financial performance and the outlook for 2025 and beyond. Recognising Injecta Fire Barrier’s significant growth since 2023, Managing Director Shaun Tasker delivered a presentation on the evolving landscape of Passive Fire Protection (PFP) and the opportunities ahead. “We are proud to showcase Injecta Fire Barrier’s success and the impact we’ve made in the industry. Our innovative approach to fire safety is setting new benchmarks, and this event provided a fantastic opportunity to discuss our achievements and future direction,” says Shaun Tasker, Managing Director at Injecta Fire Barrier. The event welcomed institutional investors, asset managers, analysts, and industry collaborators, offering insights into market trends and investment potential. It was hosted by LST Holdings’ leadership team, alongside managing directors from various divisions. “It’s exciting to be part of an organisation making a real impact by enhancing fire safety in mid and high-rise structures across the UK. With Injectaclad’s numerous advantages, not just in safety but also in reducing remediation costs, we are confident that 2025 will be another year of strong growth,” adds Shaun. Injecta Fire Barrier is the UK’s first independent approved installer of the patented Injectaclad system, an acrylic-based graphite sealant that expands upon heat exposure to slow the spread of flames and smoke in structural cavities. By installing the regulatory-compliant Injectaclad system, Injecta Fire Barrier helps property owners avoid excessive remediation costs while ensuring enhanced fire safety. “I enjoyed sharing our vision and goals at the London Stock Exchange on the 26th of February. It was great to see so many partners and investors there!” concludes Shaun. For more information about Injecta Fire Barrier, visit: https://injectafirebarrier.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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IFE Engineering Council registrants surpass 1,000

IFE Engineering Council registrants surpass 1,000

The Institution of Fire Engineers’ Engineering Council register has now surpassed 1,000 registrants, showcasing the commitment to competence and ethical practice from IFE members. As part of the registration process, applicants must demonstrate their competence and commitment via peer review against the UK Standard for Engineering Competence and Commitment (UK-SPEC). The commitment to continuous professional development (CPD) ensures ethical practice is being maintained and a continuing dedication to public safety. Professional registration with the Engineering Council demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that an individual’s competency has been independently assessed and verified, supporting personal career progression and elevating the profession. It also assures the public and stakeholders that the registered professionals have met the high standards of practice and ethical conduct required by the Engineering Council, the regulatory body for engineering in the UK. Over 1,000 IFE Engineering Council registrants now carry globally recognised post-nominals, symbolising their commitment to excellence, competence, and ethical standards across the fire sector. This milestone also underscores the growing recognition of fire engineering as a critical and dynamic field that plays a vital role in public safety, infrastructure, and resilience. “This reflects the dedication of our members in upholding the highest standards of professional competence and ethical conduct,” said Steve Hamm, CEO of the IFE. “Fire engineers are not only highly skilled but also committed to the ongoing development and ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the profession.” The IFE is licensed by the Engineering Council, the regulatory body for the UK engineering profession who set and maintain internationally recognised standards of professional competence and commitment. Fire engineering continues to evolve, and it’s apparent that IFE members are enhancing their skills and contributing to the new phase in fire safety. CEO of the Engineering Council, Paul Bailey said: “Ensuring competence and safe, ethical practice isvital throughout the whole engineering profession. It is encouraging to see the increasing number offire engineers choosing to become professionally registered and demonstrating their commitmentto develop and apply their skills to protect people and planet at this time of rapid social andtechnological change. “We welcome this announcement as we prepare to join the IFE and other engineering institutions inmarking Chartered Week, running from 24 to 28 February, which will be celebrating theachievements of professionals and organisations that inspire public trust in engineering andbeyond.” For further information on Engineering Council registration please visit: Engineering Council registration. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hochiki Training Academy Celebrates Successful First Year

Hochiki Training Academy Celebrates Successful First Year

Hochiki, a global leader in life safety solutions, is celebrating the first anniversary of its Training Academy. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Hochiki’s commitment to education and advancement within the fire safety industry. With over a century of experience, Hochiki has earned a reputation for manufacturing reliable and innovative life safety products. The Training Academy builds upon this legacy, providing fire safety professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design, install, commission, and maintain Hochiki systems. The past year has seen remarkable growth and engagement, with over 789 registered users and more than 514 courses completed, both online and in person. The academy offers a diverse range of courses catering to all levels of experience, from engineers new to fire safety to seasoned experts. “From first contacting Hochiki support to completing their online course, and then face-to-face training, the communication has been fantastic,” said one Training Academy graduate. “I wish more companies had the same attitude and skill as Hochiki and their training academy.” The academy’s blended learning approach combines online modules, including webinars, how-to videos, and interactive courses, with hands-on, in-person sessions at Hochiki’s state-of-the-art facilities in Kent. This allows participants to learn at their own pace while also benefiting from direct interaction with experienced professionals. Practical exercises and simulations enhance the learning experience. “The first anniversary of the Hochiki Training Academy marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to supporting the fire safety industry,” said Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director at Hochiki Europe. “By providing high-quality training and education, we want to empower engineers to deliver safer and more effective fire protection solutions. The academy’s success is a testament to the value of continuous professional development and the importance of collaboration between us, as a leading manufacturer, and fire industry professionals, in the pursuit of enhanced life safety.” The Hochiki Training Academy plays a crucial role in ensuring the correct specification, installation, and maintenance of Hochiki products, contributing to enhanced fire safety in buildings worldwide. Looking ahead, the academy plans to expand its course offerings, introduce new modules covering the latest advancements in fire safety technology, and further enhance its online platform.  Learn more by visiting the Hochiki Training Academy website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Mayplas adds new passive fire, acoustic and thermal products to housebuilder range

Mayplas, a specialist in passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced three new products.  The new Thermal Eaves Batt, Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications. The new Mayplas Thermal Eaves Batt provides a thermal barrier at the interface between the ceiling loft space and the external wall of new build homes.  Comprising two main components, an eaves tray and a stone mineral wool insulation batt, the batt prevents cold spots and reduces heat loss while providing a clear air path between the roofing membrane and insulation to avoid condensation.  The batt is suitable for roof pitches up to 45°. The new Party Wall Head System provides fire protection compartmentation at the party wall junction.  Installed together as per Mayplas’ Installation Guide, the two-component system – a party wall head cap and a tile batten barrier, achieves 60 minutes fire integrity and insulation tested to the principles of EN 1363-1:2012 and EOTA TR31:2008 and independently assessed in accordance with BS 476-20:1987 and BS 476-22:1987.  The system addresses Building Regulations requirements to maintain the continuity of fire resistance between a compartment party wall and the underside of the roof covering, so preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Mayplas’ third new product also works at the party wall junction.  The Therma Soffit provides thermal insulation within the soffit. It is available in two thicknesses, 100mm and 150mm, facilitating required thermal resistance values (Approved Document L) and providing resistance to the passage of sound synonymous with stone mineral wool insulation (Approved Document E). These new products join Mayplas’ MP552 Cavity Stop Socks, MP556 Fire Stop Slab, MP551 Timber Frame Cavity Barriers and MP557 Acoustic Party Wall DPC Slab, all recently tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021, to meet a wide range of housebuilders’ specialist insulation needs.  “Builders are putting fire safety first and foremost.  Our new Party Wall Head System together with our existing passive fire protection range addresses that need,” explains Michael Hunter, Mayplas’ Technical Director.  “We now provide a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, for reducing heat loss and for minimising sound transmission in both timber frame and masonry construction to help housebuilders create protected, energy-efficient and comfortable homes.” New technical data sheets are available at: www.mayplas.co.uk/housebuilding-solutions Mayplas is a member of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection and the Structural Timber Association.  An insulation specialist for over 40 years, Mayplas manufactures a range of fire, acoustic and thermal insulation products at its facility in Bury, Greater Manchester, ideally located for distribution throughout the UK.  Mayplas can accommodate virtually any insulation specification, working with architects, contractors, developers, distributors and merchants.  Mayplas is part of the Performance Technology Group. www.mayplas.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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ASSA ABLOY and Lorient showcase their complete fire door hardware and sealing system solutions at the 2025 Fire Safety Event

ASSA ABLOY and Lorient showcase their complete fire door hardware and sealing system solutions at the 2025 Fire Safety Event

ASSA ABLOY and Lorient are excited to announce their debut at the UK’s fastest-growing fire safety exhibition, the Fire Safety Event, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 8th to 10thApril 2025. Located at stand 4/G30, these industry leaders will exhibit a complete range of fire door hardware and sealing system solutions. Spanning an impressive 84SQM, the stand will highlight the critical role of door hardware and intumescent sealing systems in fire safety, showcasing how these components safeguard lives and property. Engaging Experiences and Live Demonstrations Experience the power of fire safety in action! Watch compelling fire test footage that vividly demonstrates the critical importance of properly specified and installed intumescent sealing systems. See firsthand the dangers posed by unprotected ironmongery and inadequate seals with  mini burnt doors on display. Attendees can also witness the transformative reactions of various intumescent materials and discover their suitability for different fire safety applications. Interactive Zones and Product Showcases Visitors will embark on a journey through ASSA ABLOY and Lorient’s comprehensive fire door solutions guided by their highly experienced teams. Full-sized door models will showcase real-world applications of rigorously tested and certified products, highlighting the latest innovations designed to meet the diverse needs of various sectors. Interactive zones on the stand will provide attendees with a hands-on experience; and feature  samples and miniature door models from a broad range of products such as: A key highlight at the event will be ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio®, an award-winning software solution featuring a powerful, asset tag-enabled, fire door inspection app. This end-to-end Golden Thread Solution streamlines the entire building lifecycle, from design and construction to ongoing compliance, maintenance, and future inspections. Insightful Seminars at the Innovation & Compliance Theatre During the event, ASSA ABLOY and Lorient will host two engaging seminars: Join Us at the Fire Safety Event Visit ASSA ABLOY and Lorient at stand 4/G30 during the Fire Safety Event 2025 to view the latest advancements in fire safety and building compliance. Lorient is part of the ASSA ABLOY Group. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Allegion UK promotes greater installation standards with new instructional video series

Allegion UK promotes greater installation standards with new instructional video series

Allegion UK, a pioneer in fire safety hardware and manufacturer of ‘Briton’ door controls, has expanded its library of customer support materials with new installation videos for its highly popular 2003 and 2003V surface mounted door closers. Allegion’s newly published video series provides customers with an illustrative set of installation and adjustment instructions for door mount pull, transom mount and parallel arm mount fixings across its leading product lines. With each video, Allegion aims to improve the accuracy of door closer fittings by delivering a comprehensive walkthrough of the 2003 and 2003V installation process, from the product unboxing to its fixing methods and measurements, as illustrated by Briton’s unique self-adhesive Accufit template system. With plans to further develop the video library to include step-by-step installation guidance for the Briton 2130B overhead closer, Allegion will shortly complete a suite of digitally curated support materials, which includes technical datasheets, product certifications, fixing templates and downloadable service and maintenance instructions. Speaking on the amibitions behind the new installation videos, John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Where the safety of buildings and their occupants is reliant on fire door hardware, we too often identify inaccurate installation as a leading cause for inadequate product performance. In order to prioritise fire safety, we believe it’s crucial to eliminate the issues assocated with incorrect hardware installation, and in adding short and engaging video content to our resources, we can further support our customers in this area. “Driven by our ongoing commitment to improving fire door safety standards, and following the success of our updated Accufit system for the 2003 and 2003V, we have also developed a new Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which is available now and will feature in a standalone series of installation videos set to launch later this year.” To view the latest series of installation support videos from Allegion UK, visit: https://briton.co.uk/en/documentlibrary/installation_videos.html. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hochiki Europe Named Fire Detection Company of the Year by Building and Facilities News

Hochiki Europe Named Fire Detection Company of the Year by Building and Facilities News

Hochiki Europe, a leading provider of innovative fire detection and life safety solutions, is proud to announce it has been named Fire Detection Company of the Year by Building and Facilities News. This prestigious award recognises Hochiki Europe’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and reliability in the fire safety industry. Building and Facilities News highlighted Hochiki Europe’s extensive product portfolio, dedication to customer service, and continuous investment in research and development as key factors in their decision. The award also acknowledged the company’s contributions to advancing fire safety standards and its strong reputation within the building and facilities management sector. “We are incredibly honoured to receive this award from Building and Facilities News,” said Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director at Hochiki Europe. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality fire detection solutions that protect lives and property. This award inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in the fire safety industry.” Hochiki Europe provides comprehensive fire safety solutions to a diverse range of industries, including commercial property, healthcare, education, industrial, transportation and spaces of cultural and historical importance.  This award further solidifies Hochiki Europe’s position as a global leader in the fire detection industry, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions and exceptional service to its customers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Lifetime award recognises Technical Director’s ‘lasting impact’ on fire protection standards

Lifetime award recognises Technical Director’s ‘lasting impact’ on fire protection standards

Technical Director of Promat Nigel Morrey has been recognised with a lifetime award for his commitment to fire safety at the Association for Specialist Fire Protection Awards. Recognising over three decades of commitment to improving standards in passive fire protection and raising awareness of the importance of this in protecting buildings and the occupants within, the ASFP presented Nigel with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the 2024 awards.  As Technical Director at passive fire protection manufacturer Promat, Nigel has taken a leading role in the development and testing of passive fire protection systems over the past 22 years with Etex, including supporting the drive for improved standards in built-in fire safety.  A passionate advocate for improved fire safety, Nigel has served as both Chair and Vice-Chair of the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), as well as being a member of their Council and Strategy Groups. He has also represented the organisation on Expert Panel D, Passive Fire Protection at the Loss Prevention Council Board (LPCB).  Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, he was invited to chair the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) Fire Safety Group, and was a director of the Finishes and Interiors Sector for a number of crucial years in the industry. In his role at Promat, Nigel has led a drive to improve and demonstrate competency across all aspects of the company to highlight the importance of knowledge and experience in supporting accurate specification and installation of passive fire protection.  This has included introducing training initiatives for all staff and ensuring all customer facing staff have passed, or are working towards, the IFE Level 3 qualification in passive fire protection. In presenting Nigel with the Lifetime Contribution Award, the ASFP highlighted his commitment to improving fire protection standards ASFP managing director Mike Ward said: “Innovation and promoting the highest standards in fire safety are integral to everything the ASFP stands for and Nigel Morrey truly embodies that.  “He has shown commitment to both pushing for higher standards across the fire safety industry as a whole but also to raising awareness of fire safety – and building that into construction and the supply chain. This award is richly deserved for Nigel’s tireless commitment to keeping fire safety at the top of the agenda.” Nigel said: “Receiving this award is a real privilege in an industry, and an organisation, that works so hard to ensure that fire safety is a priority in all construction.  “The ASFP does a fantastic job of promoting the work of the passive fire protection industry and it has been an honour to be able to work so closely with the organisation over the last two decades. “Amid great tragedy the industry has recently seen major change and it is vital that we continue to ensure that life-saving fire protection systems are subject to the tightest standards – and that the awareness is there of the need for passive fire protection and the correct specification and installation.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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

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

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

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