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Eye protection: A site for sore eyes or a vision for safety?

Dylan Garton
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Eye protection: A site for sore eyes or a vision for safety?

Every year, construction workers suffer from eye injuries ranging from temporary sight loss to long-term impaired vision and even blindness. Julien Clair, product manager for eyewear at Honeywell Industrial Safety, outlines the key measures required for effective eye protection.  

What are the hazards?

Construction sites create a significant risk for eye injuries. Every day, workers face a myriad of hazards whether it’s flying objects like nails, wood splinters or metal fragments or finer particles like dust and grit created by construction activities like cement mixing, sawing or chipping. The implications can be serious, ranging from temporary blurred vision, irritation or burns, to severe and long-term impaired vision or even blindness. In other cases, where direct contact with substances such as liquid mists or sources of radiation may not cause instant injury, it can have a slow, steady and ultimately damaging effect on the eyes. The tragedy is that most eye injuries are entirely preventable, which highlights the importance of ensuring effective protection.

Every day, workers face a myriad of hazards whether it’s flying objects like nails, wood splinters or metal fragments or finer particles like dust and grit

The causes of eye injuries will depend on the type of work undertaken on site so the first line of defense should be to carry out a risk assessment to identify the potential risks. Ideally, the priority would then be to remove any eye safety hazards. However, this isn’t always practicable due to the nature of work carried out. For example, flying objects are very difficult, if not impossible, to eliminate. As a result, safety eyewear is critically important for eye protection.

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Legal duties

Employers have legal duties that cover the provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). They must choose the PPE carefully and make sure that workers are trained to use it correctly, and know how to detect and report any faults. The first consideration for employers is to provide the correct eyewear solution for the work environment. There are different types of eyewear and managers will need to assess the risks that workers face and then provide the most appropriate eyewear to protect the worker against the hazards they face. Safety spectacles, goggles and face shields are all used in construction environments and each has a specific use.

Spectacles, goggles or face shields?

Safety spectacles are suitable when full enclosure of the eye area is not required. Similar to normal spectacles, they should be tested to ensure they meet EU safety standards and provide a level of impact resistance against high speed particles. In addition, they should benefit from a range of advanced lens treatments such as anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. The anti-fog technology enables construction workers to carry out tasks indoors and outdoors without worrying about the spectacles fogging up as this can increase the risk of an accident.

Goggles should be selected when workers come into contact with more serious eye hazards such as dust, flying particles, molten metal and hot liquids – in other words, whenever a tight seal is required to protect the eyes. This prevents any objects or liquid from slipping through the space between the face and the eye wear and damaging the eyes. It’s advisable to look for goggles with anti-scratch and anti-fog ventilation or with an anti-fog lens coating as this provides additional benefits.

Goggles should be selected when workers come into contact with more serious eye hazards such as dust, flying particles, molten metal and hot liquids – in other words, whenever a tight seal is required to protect the eyes.

The final level of protection is the face shield, which protects not only the eyes but the full face. This is the best protection when workers are coming into contact with hazards such as solid particles flying at high speed. It may also be important to opt for a face shield tested to withstand strong impacts from objects and that also provides protection against arc flash, molten metal, hot solids and chemical droplets, which may be a hazard in certain construction environments.

Working outdoors or indoors can make the difference when it comes to selecting safety eye wear. The contrasting work environments will require different lens tints and shades to block out sunlight, to enhance colour or to accommodate the diverse work applications. UV protection is really important and it is always advisable to purchase eye wear that offers 99.9% UV protection and are K&N marked, which means the product has superior anti-scratch and anti-fog properties.

Will workers wear it?

Another important consideration is ensuring worker buy-in. It is all very well providing the correct eye protection but the worker needs to wear it. While it may be an obvious point to make, it is important to remember that PPE is not always comfortable to wear, especially eyewear if workers aren’t used to wearing spectacles daily for personal use.

To resolve this issue, many proactive employers will involve employees in buying the kit. This gives the user the opportunity to test out the eyewear and to provide feedback before a final decision is made. Workers should also provide feedback once the eyewear has been bought and if they have any issues. Two important points that influence user buy-in are comfort and style. Any eyewear needs to provide maximum comfort as this is a significant factor in determining worker acceptance and uptake. Remember, the construction worker needs to wear the eyewear over the course of an entire day, in what can be tough, uncomfortable environments. Style also needs to be taken into account because workers are more likely to wear something that looks good.

Is it compatible with other PPE?

On a building site, construction workers will also be required to wear other PPE such as hard hats, hearing protection and gloves. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the PPE is compatible and the use of one item does not negate the use or performance of another. The interoperability of the PPE is therefore an essential consideration and the best eyewear will be designed with this in mind.

It is crucial to ensure that the PPE is compatible and the use of one item does not negate the use or performance of another

Another important consideration is a demographic one. Like other European countries, the UK has an ageing workforce and research reveals that most over 40-year-olds wear spectacles all or part of the time. Some workers choose to wear their regular prescription glasses in place of protective eyewear. This does not protect them as regular prescription glasses do not provide the right level of safety and protection required. Others choose to wear their regular prescription glasses under protective googles. However, this can be uncomfortable and at worst can impair overall vision, which compromises their safety. PPE manufacturers like Honeywell have been working to overcome this challenge, introducing prescription safety eyewear, which combines a corrective lens with a safety frame. This tailored eyewear solution provides vision correction while also keeping the workers safe.

Training & supervision

Training and supervision are also important considerations. While safety eyewear may not be as complicated as respiratory or fall protection, employers should still provide information on how the eyewear works, particularly if they are adjustable spectacles. Adjustable spectacles allow workers to reduce the space between the face and the eyewear and as such reduce the risk of objects or liquids getting into the worker’s eyes. They also need to supervise construction workers on-site and make sure they are wearing the eye protection and remind them if they are not. Hanging posters in common areas like the changing rooms or regular safety briefings can help to alert workers to the potential risks.

Finally, workers need to undertake regular checks to make sure that the eyewear is still usable and if necessary they should replace the eyewear with a new one in order to ensure a good level of protection and safety. Eye protection may not seem like an important priority on a busy construction site compared to other risks but the consequences of failing to take action can literally change lives.

www.hse.gov.uk

www.honeywellsafety.com 

Stone wool insulation: Where there’s a wool, there’s a way

Roger Bisby
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Stone wool insulation: Where there’s a wool, there’s a way

As those in the insulation manufacturing process know, not all mineral wool insulation is the same. For builders, however, it’s sometimes difficult to understand where the distinctions lie, what benefits there might be and how the insulation choices they make can impact upon a project or application. Paul Barrett, Product Manager at Rocwool looks at where stone wool insulation began and how it evolves into thermal, sound and fire safe insulation that’s capable of long-lasting performance in a wide variety of applications.

History
It sounds improbable, but the raw ingredient for stone wool insulation is a 200 million year old rock. Basalt is actually a base rock from when the Northern Hemisphere was first laid down.

Around the Pacific Rim and Hawaii, in particular, volcanic activity produces violent eruptions of dust pumice and strands of a material which the locals refer to as Queen Peles hair. It is formed as the molten lava falls through a cold air draft. These strands are nature’s version of what we now recognise today as stone wool.

It was around 1900 that scientists started to look more closely at the material as a potential insulant for a range of applications. The clever part was in creating their own mini volcano in factory conditions, to produce the wool in commercially viable quantities.

Production
The production process for stone wool is a technological replica of the inside of a volcano, with the molten lava then cooled and spun in a controlled environment.

The process begins with the base rock being graded and crushed along with other carefully selected ingredients, such as, recycled stone wool to form a raw material. This charge, as it is known, is then melted in a cupola furnace at a temperature in excess of 1500°C. As the liquid rock pours from the furnace, nature’s process is recreated. Lava flow is directed into a chamber where it is spun and transformed into rock strands and stone wool.

The spun strands are then mixed with a binder. Trillions of these strands are collected to form a primary fleece which is compressed and then cured. Cut to various lengths and thicknesses it is then prepared and packaged to form an extensive range of products for a wide variety of applications.

Benefits
Not only is stone wool a naturally renewable and sustainable material, it also boasts a unique combination of benefits. It absorbs sound, provides a barrier to fire and retains warmth.

1 – Sound
Superior Acoustics
Stone wool insulation is renowned for its excellent acoustic properties. With its dense, non-directional fibre structure, it effectively traps sound waves and dampens vibration to provide an enhanced noise reducing solution.

Fully tested to meet the rigorous demands of today’s legislation, stone wool insulation is proven to reduce ambient, impact and reverberation noise.

2 – Thermal
Reliable thermal performance
Stone wool insulation also delivers on thermal performance. Its insulating properties derive from tiny pockets of air trapped within the physical structure of the stone wool.

As well as reducing the heat needed to keep buildings warm in winter, stone wool insulation also maintains a cool interior temperature in summer. It’s energy efficient as well as being environmentally friendly all year round.

Stone wool insulation is not just for new builds. An effective way to improve the thermal performance of existing buildings is to add insulated external render systems. This causes minimal disruption to occupants and can contribute to the reduction of fuel bills year after year.

3 – Fire
Fire Safe Solutions
Created using the same process that occurs at the heart of a volcano, stone wool tolerates temperatures of up to 1000°C and does not burn.

In the event of a fire, stone wool products are designed to remain stable and slow the spread of flames. The products are fire-safe and help to protect the building’s load-bearing structure, buying valuable time for occupants to safely escape and also help to protect the building’s load-bearing structure, thereby protecting lives and investment.

We’d suggest that contractors look for stone wool insulation products that have been awarded the highest possible European classification: A1 non-combustible.

Flat roofing
From volcanic rock to high performance building insulation, rock has been re-engineered for a fast, easy and perfect fit. As part of the Hardrock Multi Fix range, the Rockwool Hardrock Multi-Fix Overlay Board has been specifically developed for use on flat roof refurbishment projects.

A comprehensive sound, thermal and fire safe solution, the Overlay Board acts as an ideal base layer to install new waterproofing membranes. It simplifies flat roof repair jobs, lowers material costs, is easily cut and simple to fit.  Ideal for both domestic and commercial projects, it is compatible with all commonly used flat roof membranes, including Single-Ply and EPDM, Bitumen membranes, GRP and  other cold applied liquid membrane systems.

Summary
When you understand the origins of the material and its physical characteristics it’s clear that, for contractors, stone wool should be the first choice for building insulation. Rockwool is easy to build to your clients’ requirements for practical, durable and highly effective thermal, acoustic and fire insulation.

View “The Rockwool Origins” video to discover why its origins in natural stone make Rockwool the insulation material of choice for your building project. To watch the video, visit www.rockwool.co.uk or search ‘Rockwool Origins’ in YouTube.

Bosch launches two new 18v rotary hammers

Roger Bisby
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Bosch launches two new 18v rotary hammers

The GBH 18V-26 Professional and GBH 18V-26 F Professional are the latest additions to the Bosch range of 18v rotary hammers with EC motors.

Both generate an impact energy of 2.6 joules – 50 percent more than the current strongest 18 volt rotary hammer. This makes them comparable with corded tools such as the GBH 2-26 Professional. This is where the EC motor steps in. It is highly efficient and maintenance-free. The user can choose between the model with fixed chuck and the model with changeable chuck (F), which is also supplied with a keyless chuck for round shank drill bits.

Precision and control

To allow installers to stay in complete control even when carrying out work on hard materials – when drilling into reinforced concrete, for example – Bosch has equipped the GBH 18V-26 Professional and the GBH 18V-26 F Professional with KickBack Control. If the rotary hammer turns suddenly or unpredictably on its drill axis, as can occur if the drill becomes jammed in reinforced concrete, the integrated sensor shuts off the motor in a fraction of a second. This prevents unexpected kickback of the tool and, therefore, can reduce the risk of injury. The integrated Electronic Precision Control (EPC) feature supports tradespeople when drilling into delicate materials such as tiles.

If the EPC function is activated, the maximum power of the rotary hammer is limited to 70 percent with slower run-up. It enables tradespeople to work in impact mode from the very start of their task by omitting one work step. The bit is prevented from slipping off when the user starts to drill, and precise results can be achieved quickly and easily.

Ergonomics and low vibrations

When developing the new generation of 18 volt rotary hammers, Bosch also redesigned the shape of the tools and optimized them for ergonomic work. The handle is now in line with the drill axis on both tools. This L shape reduces the effort and fatigue involved in working with the tool. In addition, both rotary hammers feature efficient vibration damping. A damping element uncouples the main handle from the hammer drive, reducing vibrations actively.

Integrated dust extraction

To enable tradespeople to work in building stock in a dust-free environment for example when retrofitting light fittings – Bosch is offering the new 18 volt rotary hammers with active integrated dust extractor for the first time: The GDE 18V-16 Professional can simply be attached to the rotary hammer when required. It has its own motor which is also supplied with power by the rotary hammer battery. To allow drilling to be carried out easily and cleanly using dust extraction, the dust extractor has an automatic power on/off function. It automatically starts at the same time as the rotary hammer. However, to ensure optimal dust extrac- tion, it continues to function for two seconds after the drilling operation is ended. The integrated HEPA filter also provides reliable dust protection and, like the dust container, can be cleaned and emptied in just a few easy movements.

Further features of the 18 volt rotary hammers include an LED light on the housing which illuminates the working area, as well as a powerful 6.0 Ah battery. With its accompanying GAL 1880 CV Professional quick charger, the battery is fully charged in just 50 minutes – 30 percent faster than the previous model. The new generation of 18 volt rotary hammers is part of the Flexible Power system and is therefore compatible with Bosch’s entire professional 18 volt system.

The 18 volt GBH 18V-26 Professional and GBH 18V-26 F Professional rotary hammers will be available in various scopes of delivery from specialist retail outlets from January 2017. The GDE 18V-16 Professional dust extraction system will be available from May 2017. Subject to change.

www.bosch-professional.com/gb/en/

All wrapped up: Snickers winter workwear

Roger Bisby
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All wrapped up: Snickers winter workwear

Roger Bisby takes a look at some ideas from Snickers to make your winter working happier.

Hi Tech fabrics have undeniable advantages and I am very happy to wear them but there is something reassuring about a natural wool sweater. It is probably the only fabric that stays warm even when it is wet which is very handy for all those sheep stuck out on the hill side in mid-winter.

Wool is also highly breathable so (let’s get back to humans) the moisture can be absorbed and evaporated out.

If you combine this sweater with a 37.5 technology first layer and then maybe top it off with a Snickers Gortex jacket there isn’t going to be much in the way of cold or wet that you can’t take on.

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The sleeves have those funny thumb holes to make sure they stay tucked down inside your gloves so there is no cold wrist. There are also Polyamide reinforced elbow and lower arm patches.

I really like this jumper, especially the way it zips up to make a high neck collar. You could almost hibernate in there and come back out in the spring. In fact there was a call recently from one of the unions to stop work on sites when the temperature drops much below freezing, I applaud their caring approach to their members but there are bills to pay and most building workers I know would rather soldier on than sit indoors waiting for the temperature to lift. If on the other hand they wanted to pay us a few extra quid as a cold weather bonus that would be very welcome, thank you.

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And if you are going to work a pair of nice warm Snickers socks will keep your feet nice and warm.

Happy feet, happy head as Confucius used to say and a pair of good quality socks is a small investment to make especially when you consider the engineering (no other word for it) that has gone into their socks.

Cordura reinforced panels around the heal and toe, stretch fit, and air panels for ventilation. Confucius didn’t think of that; it was a Swedish design. Volvo, Abba and Snickers, not a bad contribution to civilisation.

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk

Dickies crowns UK worker of the year

Roger Bisby
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Dickies crowns UK worker of the year

Kevin Skeith, 39, a flooring specialist from Sleaford, has been crowned UK Worker of the Year 2016, winning a Honda Crosstourer 1200cc motorbike and a year’s free shopping at ASDA.

Kevin attended Brands Hatch over the weekend, along with five other finalists, all vying to become UK Worker of the Year, a competition run by  workwear brand Dickies, in association with Honda and ASDA.

An overwhelmed and shocked Kevin commented: “It still has not sunk in that I have won the UK Worker of the Year competition, I genuinely love my job and have been a self employed flooring specialist for the last 18 years. I take great pride in what I do and I get tremendous satisfaction from it every day.

“I am a massive British Superbike fan and I am delighted to win the motorbike and I am looking forward to taking it for a spin. I would like to thank Dickies for organising such a fantastic competition.”

Kevin a father of two, sources, orders and fits all the flooring used, he also provides all quotes and estimates, devises marketing and advertising plans and maintains the tools that are crucial to his job.

He has a built up a strong reputation over the years and he gains his work through social media and word of mouth.

Rob Haines, sales director at Dickies said: “Sitting on this year’s judging panel was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. All six finalists were incredibly deserving of their position in this year’s final, but it was Kevin’s passion and dedication to his job that made him stand out to me.”

Kevin had the opportunity to choose a luxury holiday or from a choice of several Honda vehicles, including a Jazz car, motorbike, rib boat, as well as a years shopping from ASDA. The chance to win a potentially life changing £250,000 should they correctly predict the outcome of the top six rider positions in the weekend MCE British Superbike race was missed.

This year’s £2,000 in holiday vouchers runner up prize went to electrician Christine Vaghela with electronics engineer Paul Harris scooping £1,000 in holiday vouchers after finishing third.

www.dickieslife.com

New custom Transits revealed

Roger Bisby
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New custom Transits revealed

Ford has revealed exclusive new variants of the Transit Custom one-tonne commercial vehicle.

The new Transit Custom Colour Edition van offers four colour schemes that feature contrasting roof, mirror caps, skid plate and side stripes, along with unique black 17‑inch alloy wheels.

The Transit Custom Sport series van with its signature twin bonnet stripes is also now available in a much wider choice of bodystyles. Sport series customers can now select van and double-cab-in-van models in both short and long wheelbase versions; in addition, the latest Tourneo Custom people mover can be specified with the same Sport package.

The demand for sporting and distinctive Transit models has continued to build since the original Sport Van was introduced by Ford in 2007. During the first 10 months of 2016, sales of the current Transit Custom Sport are up by 52 per cent in the UK compared to the same period the previous year.

New Colour Edition – bold contrasts, sports style

Available for delivery in spring 2017, the Transit Custom Colour Edition provides van customers with an exclusive new appearance option with just 400 units available in the UK.

Inspired by the bold contrasting colours of Ford’s successful passenger cars like the Fiesta and Focus Red and Black Editions, the new model can be specified in Race Red, Deep Impact Blue and Frozen White with Jet Black contrasts, and Shadow Black with Race Red contrasts.

All Transit Custom Colour Edition vehicles have a short-wheelbase, standard roof van bodystyle, and are based on the 290 Trend series model featuring the powerful all-new 170PS 2.0-litre Ford EcoBlue diesel engine with 6-speed manual transmission, with the enhanced chassis settings from the Sport series van.

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Transit Custom Sport series with expanded appeal

Responding to customer demand for a wider choice of body and seating options, the Transit Custom Sport series is now available in six different variants.

As before, the Sport series features a muscular body kit and a fully colour-coded exterior, with body-colour bumpers, side mirrors and door handles, along with body-side mouldings and wheelarch extensions that have been redesigned for the latest model. The bold appearance is finished off with new 17-inch alloy wheels in a two-tone silver and black design – with optional silver 18-inch alloy wheels – and twin bonnet stripes in a contrasting colour.

The sporting style also features partial leather interior trim combining Pewter seat fabric with charcoal black leather bolsters, including second or third seat rows where fitted, and the latest interior technologies such as the Ford SYNC connectivity package.

The standard powertrain combines the 170PS Ford EcoBlue diesel engine with a 6-speed manual, but customers can also specify the new 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission option on three of the Sport series variants.

All Sport models are based on the 290 series Transit Custom, with driving dynamics further optimised with a unique chassis specification delivering enhanced steering, handling and ride, and a more responsive and agile feel.

Compared to a standard vehicle, roll control is improved by a thicker front anti-roll bar and the addition of a rear anti-roll bar. On the van model, this is combined with softer rear springs for increased comfort when lightly laden, along with unique damper tuning, with firmer settings on the rear, for enhanced ride and steering control. Double-cab-in-van models have different spring and damper settings optimised for both handling and rear passenger comfort.

The expanded Transit Custom Sport series is available to order at the end of the year for customer delivery in spring 2017.

www.ford.co.uk/CommercialVehicles

 

 

Ironmongery Direct launches bespoke graduate scheme

Roger Bisby
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Ironmongery Direct launches bespoke graduate scheme

IronmongeryDirect, the online and mail order supplier of ironmongery products, is on the hunt for graduates to join its Graduate Management Scheme, as expansion across the business continues.

As part of the bespoke programme, graduates will spend time working across all departments within the company, helping to develop their leadership skills and business expertise in a range of areas, such as product management, operations, sales, marketing, ecommerce, IT, and finance and HR.

Designed to shape future leaders within the business, the year-and-a-half long placement will provide talented young people with personalised leadership and technical training, giving them the skills needed to kick-start their careers straight after leaving university.

During the training, new recruits will be teamed up with a mentor, a line manager and a buddy who will all help guide, support and challenge them throughout the programme. After completing the course, graduates will also be in with a greater chance of securing a permanent leadership role within the firm.

To support the search for talented individuals, IronmongeryDirect has also created a dedicated careers website, making it easier for candidates to see the roles available and then submit their applications.

Dimitra Koutsochera, who completed the course and is now a supply chain and inventory planning manager at the company, believes her time on the Graduate Management Scheme has been incremental in helping her to achieve her career goals. She said: “During my time on the Graduate Management Scheme I learnt a great deal – not just when it came to improving my skills and business knowledge, but also in terms of my personal development and people management skills. I was able to gain a better understanding of my own talents and interests, which helped me to follow a career path that was personal and right for me.

“By completing the course, I have been fast-tracked into a successful and rewarding role and have been given some amazing opportunities to progress my career – opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise had. I would definitely recommend the programme to anyone looking to take that first step along their career journey.”

Wayne Lysaght-Mason, managing director at IronmongeryDirect, said: “For many graduates leaving university, it can be tough to land the first job that will see them on their way to a successful career. It’s particularly difficult finding opportunities that will allow them to progress up the ranks quickly, with many having to start from the very bottom.

“We have created our bespoke Graduate Management Scheme to make this process easier for those driven, hardworking individuals who are looking to find the right career path for them. We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and creative young people who can become future leaders and help us drive forward our continued success.”

www.IronmongeryDirect.co.uk

Milwaukee redsticks review

Dylan Garton
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Milwaukee redsticks review

Roger Bisby tries out a few Milwaukee redsticks for size and accuracy.

Milwaukee is continuing its journey into the wonderful world of hand tools with the introduction of a range of Redstick spirit levels. On paper they seem to tick all the boxes but it is early days so we will have to see how they stand up to life out on the test sites where they will be spending the next few months of their lives.

The Lifetime Accuracy Warranty is certainly a sign that they should do well and there is a Limited Lifetime Warranty which basically allows for normal use rather than using them for jobs a level is not designed to do. No company is going to give you that kind of guarantee unless they are sure that their product is up to the job.

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These levels have rare earth magnets in them which are ridiculously strong. This is both good and bad. All too often I plonk down the level on something and then discover that one end has picked up a stray nail or screw. There are also times when it will catch the trowel as you are laying on a brick wall and that is off putting. What would be nice is a magnet you could remove when you don’t need that feature.

The rigid box construction with an all metal back-bone and milled edge should help the level stay straight and true provided you don’t use it as a lever. Who would do that to a precision instrument? Well there are people. The high-visibility vial has a best-in-class rating.

Like many levels these days there is shock absorbency built in the end bumpers and the extra wide grips allow them to be used with gloves. The levels come in a full range of the usual popular sizes and a few less popular ones.

www.milwaukeetool.com

FEIN MultiTalent, MultiMaster & SuperCut review

Roger Bisby
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FEIN MultiTalent, MultiMaster & SuperCut review

Fein was the first to make an oscillating multi tool but since the patent ran out it’s been copied by a number of other manufacturers. However Fein is still innovating and staying ahead of the game.

Roger Bisby takes a look at the Fein MultiTalent, MultiMaster & SuperCut.

fein.com/en_uk

New Volkswagen Amarok goes on sale

Dylan Garton
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New Volkswagen Amarok goes on sale

Volkswagen Van Centres across the UK have started taking orders for the new Amarok model which is priced from £32,493 (RRP OTR).

Replacing the previous model’s 2.0-litre TDI engine, the new Amarok features a 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine, making it the only six-cylinder model in the segment. The top-of-the-range version of this 3.0-litre V6 delivers 224 PS and 550 Nm of torque channelled through its standard eight-speed automatic gearbox, giving a top speed of 119 mph and a 0 to 62 mph time of 8.0 seconds. An overboost function on the 224 PS takes the power up to 240 PS. Further iterations of this V6 TDI engine include a 204 PS version which is available to order at launch with an automatic gearbox, plus a manual 204 PS and a 163 PS manual to follow later in 2017.

New Volkswagen Amarok

UK customers can choose from selectable (with manual gearbox) and permanent (with auto) 4MOTION four-wheel drive. An optional mechanical rear-axle differential lock is also available for demanding off-road use.

From the outside the new Amarok distinguishes itself from the previous model through new front bumper and radiator grille design including front fog lights, new alloy wheels and a third brake light with LED technology.

Inside the cab the changes are more prominent with an all-new dash panel design which incorporates Volkswagen’s MIB infotainment system with touchscreen, radio and new technology including the option of navigation, Guide & Inform, Car-Net and App-Connect systems. Bluetooth and DAB digital radio are also now standard features.

A comprehensive list of safety equipment comes as standard on every new Amarok, including four airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme and Volkswagen’s award-winning Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Additional highlights including Park Pilot and a rear-view camera also enhance comfort, convenience and safety.

UK specifications follow the previous model’s pattern and are familiar to buyers of Volkswagen’s other commercial vehicles. As such they range from Startline (later in 2017), through Trendline to Highline. Special editions will also be offered during the model’s life, for example the Aventura, 240 examples of which are available from launch.

The Aventura adds a host of special features including 19-inch alloy wheels with 255/55 wide tyres and arch extensions. The bed of the Aventura’s cargo box also has a matt black Durabed coating. The interior is no less exclusive with ‘Discover Media’ navigation system and mobile online services. The Aventura also comes with ParkPilot automatic parking system, featuring front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. This model is available in exclusive Ravenna Blue metallic paint finish.

At launch, prices for the new model start at £32,493 (RRP OTR) for the Trendline with 204 PS. The limited edition Aventura launch model costs £39,381 (RRP OTR).

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

Self-employed builder electrocuted at sunbed salon

Roger Bisby
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Self-employed builder electrocuted at sunbed salon

A real estate lettings company has been sentenced for safety breaches after a self- employed builder suffered 1st and 3rd degree burns to his face, hands, neck and chest.

The injured worker, 50 year old Michael Phillips, suffered an electric shock in October 2015 when he was carrying out work for IPH Investments Ltd at an address in Station Parade Harrogate.

The premises were being converted into a sunbed and beauty salon. The usual supply for most domestic dwellings is 240v but because this supply was feeding both shop premises and residential flats a larger supply was needed. (400v). The company needed to carry out some preparatory work before the new supply could be installed. This involved the digging out of a small trench in the hallway of the site so that a new electricity supply could be installed into the property.

Whilst digging the trench Mr Phillips struck the existing live service cable with the small breaker he was using.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted the firm over the incident.

IPH Investments Ltd of Orchard House Haywra Street Harrogate pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and was fined £53,000.00 with £654.60 costs by Leeds Magistrates Court.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Jayne Towey commented: “This case was entirely preventable if the company had carried out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment before work began.

“The company could have used a cable avoidance tool (CAT) before any digging was carried out. This would have helped to locate the buried electrical service.”

Bosch Drill Competition – Winner announcement

Roger Bisby
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Bosch Drill Competition – Winner announcement

Skill Builder recently teamed up with Bosch to give you the chance to win a Bosch 18V-EC Kit and the winner has now been drawn.

Keep an eye on the Skill Builder website and YouTube channel for more power tool giveaways coming soon.

Construction company fined after worker’s roof fall

Roger Bisby
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Construction company fined after worker’s roof fall

A Derbyshire based engineering construction company has been prosecuted after a worker fell and suffered severe injuries.

A worker was repairing a fibreboard roof of a barn and using two homemade crawling boards when he fell 6meters on to the floor below, sustaining serious injuries to his head, hip, and lungs.

Derby Magistrates Court heard how at the time of the incident, 30 July 2014, he was working as part of a pair to replace the roofing panels. One of his colleagues was under the roof in a ‘man basket’ that has been attached to a telehandler, when the incident happens he had to climb down the boom of the machine to help the colleague.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that there were not sufficient platforms or coverings for the roof to protect workers from the fall. The risk assessment and method statement, which would have told the workers how to run the work was in the office but also not specific to the job. There were also no separate controls for the man basket, leaving the worker stranded when his colleague fell.

Allen and Hunt Construction Engineers Ltd of Thorpe, Derbyshire, pleaded guilty to Sections 4(1), 7 and 9 (2) of the Working at Height regulations and was fined a total of £267,000 and ordered to pay costs of £7,750 and a victim surcharge of £120.

‘Retro boiler label’ a great way to start the energy efficiency conversation

Roger Bisby
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‘Retro boiler label’ a great way to start the energy efficiency conversation

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council, HHIC together with the boiler manufacturers has this month launched the ‘Retro Boiler’ Label. The scheme aims to tackle the UK’s 9 million inefficient boilers by raising awareness of boiler efficiency with consumers.

Registered gas engineers are now issuing an energy efficiency label, a ‘Retro Boiler’ label, on all non-condensing boilers with a permanent pilot light, when visiting homes to undertake servicing or maintenance work.

Speaking about the scheme which was launched at the Plumbing & Heating Exhibition (PHEX) Stewart Clements, Director at HHIC said “The scheme was incredibly well received by registered gas engineers attending the PHEX exhibition, as it offers them an easy and clear way to introduce boiler efficiency to their customers. Energy labels currently appear on a multitude of electrical products including washing machines and fridges so consumers are used to seeing them and this new label aims to build on this knowledge.”

Gary Wright, Heating Engineer at AC Wilgar said “On issuing my first ‘Retro Boiler’ label the customer had no clue that boilers had various efficiencies. This isn’t uncommon. Many people I visit are often unaware of how much they could save by upgrading their boiler. These labels are a great way to start the energy efficiency conversation with customers.”

The ‘Retro Boiler’ Label scheme has attracted support from Government with Baroness Neville-Rolfe, Government Minister of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, saying: “helping consumers to optimise their household heating fits perfectly our vision of ensuring that the UK has a reliable, low cost and clean energy system.”

‘Retro Boiler’ labels are available free of charge from most boiler manufacturers.

installersfirst.co.uk

‘Ridiculous’ autumn statement has gaping £14 billion smart meter black hole, says GMB

Dylan Garton
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‘Ridiculous’ autumn statement has gaping £14 billion smart meter black hole, says GMB

This morning’s autumn statement has at least one glaring omission according to GMB, the energy union – £14billion needed for the Government’s flagship smart meter project.

In his ‘mini-budget’ Chancellor Philip Hammond promised huge investment in infrastructure – but made no mention of the vast sums required to install the 53 million new meters across the country.

The project will see new smart meters installed in 30million homes and businesses at an estimated cost of £215 a go.

The initial price tag for the project is £11billion, but with massive staff shortages the cost of the project looks underfunded in the lead up to the target date of 2020.

The cost is nearly 30 per cent of the £55.7 billion needed for the High Speed 2 rail project.

Justin Bowden, GMB National Secretary, said: “It is ridiculous that the autumn statement did not even mention the biggest infrastructure the UK has ever had.

“Trying to install 53 million smart meters by 2020 is cloud cuckoo land – unless there is a massive Government led programme starting now to ensure adequate staff to do the work, alongside proper funding.

“Every electricity and gas customer in the country will want to know whether by leaving smart metering out of the autumn statement, the Chancellor has a cunning plan to try and sneak the costs onto them.”

Handheld Insulation Testing at up to 2.5kV

Roger Bisby
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Handheld Insulation Testing at up to 2.5kV

In response to demand for a dependable and versatile handheld insulation tester capable of operating at up to 2.5 kV, portable test equipment specialist Megger, has introduced the new MIT2500 instrument, which offers accurate measurements up to 200 GΩ.

The MIT2500 insulation tester has feedback-stabilised test voltages to ensure that tests are always carried out to Megger’s tight specification.

The MIT2500 also incorporates a guard terminal that makes it possible to compensate for the effects of surface leakage currents.

Designed to offer long reliable service even when used in tough on-site conditions, MIT2500 insulation tester features rugged construction, with resilient rubber over-moulding, and an IP54 protection rating.

Designed with safety in mind, they incorporate live circuit detection and protection functionality, and they have a CATIV 600 V safety rating in line with IEC 61010.

Typical applications include testing of cables, motors and generators. In addition, as users can adjust the test voltage in 10 V steps from 100 V to 2.5 kV, the instrument can also be used for testing electrical installations, verifying the ESD of materials and testing of control panels, to name but a few.

Find out more about Megger’s MIT2500 insulation tester at: uk.megger.com

Baxi welcomes launch of HHIC retrofit labelling scheme

Dylan Garton
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Baxi welcomes launch of HHIC retrofit labelling scheme

Baxi has welcomed the HHIC’s decision to launch a retrospective boiler labelling scheme.

The scheme aims to increase consumer awareness about boiler efficiencies and performance, and to highlight to consumers that upgrading old, inefficient boilers will reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.

Jeff House, regulatory marketing manager at Baxi, commented: “There are approximately nine million inefficient boilers in the UK, a large proportion of which are over 20 years old. In comparison to modern condensing boilers, they cost homeowners more to run, and cost the planet because of the higher carbon emissions.

“Upgrading the efficiency of UK boiler stock would have a significant impact on the UK’s energy use and greenhouse gas emissions; replacing a Band F or G boiler with an A-rated appliance could reduce the carbon footprint of a typical UK household by 0.7 tonnes of CO2 each year, and would reduce gas bills by approximately £150.

“The voluntary retrospective labelling scheme launched by the HHIC will involve heating engineers applying a pre-completed label to any existing, inefficient, permanent pilot light boilers that they service or repair. The label is similar to the EU energy label that is now supplied with boilers of up to 70kW through the Energy Labelling Directive (ErP) and is designed to help homeowners to quickly and easily assess how efficient their boiler is, and whether it would be worthwhile to replace it with a modern, condensing equivalent.

“Consumers are of course already very familiar with energy labels, with them being found on domestic appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. The Energy Labelling Directive and other energy label schemes have proven that consumers do react to clear label ratings, and respond to them by trying to maximise their efficiency.

“Baxi is strongly supportive of the HHIC retrospective labelling scheme, and we are committed to bringing it to fruition. It represents an easy, straightforward way to highlight boiler inefficiencies to consumers, who in turn can take action to reduce their fuel bills and help the environment. It should also increase demand for new boilers, resulting in business growth for heating engineers.”

Baxi will work with heating engineers to help them adopt the labelling scheme, so that it becomes a standard part of their service and repair work. The company will provide HHIC retrospective labels to installers who are members of its Baxi Works loyalty scheme free of charge, to help increase their boiler installation and servicing work and grow their businesses.

www.baxi.co.uk

Worker dies falling from 30 foot pylon

Roger Bisby
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Worker dies falling from 30 foot pylon

An international engineering company has been sentenced following the death of a worker who fell 30 feet from an electricity pylon.

Vincent John Richards, 49, from Walsall was installing fall arrest lines for painters to use on the pylon at Great Orton, Carlisle on the 5 July 2014 when the incident happened.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated the incident and prosecuted Bilfinger Industrial Services (UK) Limited for serious safety failings.

Carlisle Crown Court heard that Mr Richards who was employed by the company as a “Rigger”, had been working with a colleague preparing the pylons in readiness for painters to carry out maintenance work. On the morning of the incident, Mr Richards arrived at pylon FT37 and found that the painters had already commenced painting even though the pylon had not been rigged.  Mr Richards had climbed approximately 30ft up the pylon, when he fell backwards, narrowly missing one of the painters working directly below him. As a result of the fall, Mr Richards sustained serious multiple injuries and died at the scene.

The HSE investigation found a number of failings by Bilfinger Industrial Services (UK) Limited in the management of risks arising from work at height. Although the company had a system of work they failed to implement, monitor and enforce this system. This failing exposed their employees to the risk of death.

Bilfinger Industrial Services (UK) Limited of Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn today   (17 November 2016) pleaded guilty to a breach of Section 2 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £200.000 and ordered to pay costs of £59,320.10

Speaking after the hearing HSE Inspector Susan Ritchie said: “The company were clearly aware of the hazards involved with pylon work and had a system in place to manage the risks. Unfortunately they failed to implement, monitor and enforce this system of work. In addition they failed to ensure the proper inspection and provision of safety critical personal protective equipment.

For more information on fall arrest equipment go to: hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg367.pdf

JCB trousers review

Roger Bisby
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JCB trousers review

Roger Bisby wears JCB’s latest trousers.

JCB has introduced two stand out work trousers to its range.
The Camo trousers are a popular look for builders, especially those who enjoy country sports, but these are dedicated work trousers. They have knee pad pockets and a zipped thigh pocket but no external pouches so they wouldn’t look out of place in the pub. Unlike many army surplus trousers they aren’t particularly heavy so they are good for summer and the cut is generous so they should be ideal for those on the move or even those on manoeuvres.

It reminds me of one of my favourite jokes:
“Wilkins I didn’t see you at camouflage practice this morning!”
“Thank you sir”.
Sorry I couldn’t resist it.

The second pair of trousers we took out and about are a Western jean work trouser with 85% cotton. Most work wear manufacturers have now introduced a heavy denim jean into their range which has a certain irony because they spent years weaning us off jeans and into something more suitable. But these are jeans with workwear functionality. They have knee pad pockets and a good deep cargo pocket with zip on the thigh but again no pouch pockets. To make up they have two large rear pockets with hook and loop fastening. Just don’t try putting nails in there and sitting down.

_jcb_5209-4

Both pairs of trousers come with a 32 inch leg so if you are shorter you need to turn the hem up and if you are longer you will have what we used to call ‘half mast’ which is not quite pirate. Luckily for me I am a 32 incher which meant I only had to find one other 32 inch leg person to try out the other pair and he happened to be standing right next to me.

What are the chances of that? Well apparently they are very high unless you are in China or Holland which is probably why JCB and many other workwear manufacturer go for that size. The bottom line is that it costs a lot more to make all those different leg lengths. Years ago you used to get trousers unfinished at the bottom so you could mark them off at the correct length. Whatever happened to that?

How To Fit a Wall Hung WC & Basin Part 2

Roger Bisby
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How To Fit a Wall Hung WC & Basin Part 2

In the second part of this video Roger Bisby continues his explanation of how to fit a wall hung WC and basin from British company Abacus Bathrooms.

As a British company Abacus has a good understanding of British plumbing and the WC and Basin in this video have been designed to work with British systems so you’re not running around different merchants looking for a non-existant adapter for a continental system; everything you need to do the job is in this kit.

www.abacus-bathrooms.co.uk

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