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EU exit delivery plan needed to boost construction sector, says FMB

Dylan Garton
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EU exit delivery plan needed to boost construction sector, says FMB

Latest construction statistics for June, which show the weakest sector performance for seven years, are a cautionary sign of the damage that current uncertainty is causing to the building industry. according to the Federation of Master Builders.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “June’s PMI figures, which show a huge dip in construction output, reflect our fears that uncertainty over the outcome of the EU referendum would hit our sector. In the wake of the UK’s vote to leave the EU, there is a growing concern that this period of uncertainty is only just beginning. Construction is an industry that is particularly vulnerable to dips in confidence and it appears that many clients were hesitant to commit to new projects as they were unsure of what the future held.  An exit road map is needed to show what steps are going to be taken to withdraw from the EU.

Berry continued: “The results underline the importance of clear leadership from the Government – it’s imperative that it attempts to offset any uncertainty firms will be feeling. This week’s announcement by the Chancellor that he would seek to lower corporation tax to below 15% is a positive step, as was Greg Clark’s recent reaffirmation that the Government will still aim to build one million new homes by 2020.  However, much more needs to be done. Dithering over infrastructure decisions will send out entirely the wrong message to firms of all sizes. More than ever, investment is needed in a sector that generates £2.84 in the wider economy for every £1 spent.  Public investment in our sector could play a vital part in warding off an economic slump, but today’s findings show that it will be far from business as usual.”

Concerns over standards of safety footwear

Dylan Garton
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Concerns over standards of safety footwear

Arco, one of the UK’s leading safety companies has recently undertaken tests that reveal some of the safety footwear being used by tradespeople may not be fit for purpose.

In order to adhere to EU standard EN ISO 20345 2011, midsoles must be able to resist a penetration test using a nail with a force of 1100N and a corrosion test for 48 hrs in a 1% sodium chloride solution.

Furthermore, as explained by Satra  in their publication, ‘Toe Caps and Penetration Resistent Inserts (BULSEP2013)’, to ensure current standards for Class 1 footwear products are met, metalic midsoles should be made of stainless steel also known as high chromium  steel. These steels contain generally a minimum of 10.5% chromium, the element  that prevents the steel from corroding. A true stainless steel midsole has high corrosion resitant properties, thus ensuring the long term protection from penetration.  It’s worth noting that all rubber or polymeric footwear (e.g. Wellingtons) with midsoles are Class 2 and therefore are corrosion tested using alternative methods .

When testing the chromium content of metal midsoles in 14 Class 1 footwear products at their Product Assurance Laboratory, Arco identified that 7 of the 14 products contained less than 0.2% of chromium. Carbon steel inserts containing low levels of chromium may pass an initial puncture resistance test, but are likely to corrode over time especially if the sole of the footwear has been penetrated. This can then pose significant risk to the wearer who would be unaware their midsoles are not longer compliant or fit for purpose.

To further complicate matters, the use of stainless steel midsoles in the construction of footwear is not immediately evident and purchasers are relying on the CE mark being accurate.  Even though the manufacturer is responsible for compliance of its products, they do not always have the resources in place for regular testing. Additionally, less reputable manufacturers or importers can make changes to the product once CE certification has been gained for the products which will then affect the product’s performance

Nick McLaren, Arco’s Category Manager, Footwear, said: “Arco will always take the issue of safety very seriously and our investment in our own Product Assurance Laboratory is proof of this. We’ve been shocked by the results of our recent test on midsoles but we can assure our own customers that corrosion resistant stainless steel midsole inserts are used in the construction of all our own brand products.  We’ve also discussed our findings with all the footwear brands in the Arco catalogue and have requested they confirm the composition of the midsoles used within their footwear.  In recognition of our responsibilities as a market leader in safety footwear, we have informed our trade body, The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), of our findings and they will continue to work closely with the authorities in the surveillance of the market to ensure that non-compliant products are withdrawn swiftly.”

arco.co.uk

Dangerous dust warning

Roger Bisby
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Dangerous dust warning

Shortlisted for the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) Awards 2016, The Harley Scientific Fibrecheck 6 (HS-FC6) from SMH Products provides a real-time warning for tradespeople and others at risk of inadvertent exposure to airborne particulate.

Fibrous particles, such as asbestos, produce distinctive scatter patterns when they break a beam of light. The HS-FC6 works by drawing a constant air sample (2 l/min) through an optics module where any particles or fibres present in the air scatter the light from a laser.

This light scatter is detected by a series of photodiodes and then processed using a complex algorithm to determine whether a particle or fibre has been detected.

A ‘beep’ sounds when a fibre is detected. The unit counts the number of particles processed and then calculates the cumulative fibre concentration in terms of fibres per millilitre of air. It can display concentrations as low as 0.001 fibres/ml.

The HS-FC6 is the latest model in the Fibrecheck series; its enhanced electronics, such as the smaller pump and laser module, make it more compact and efficient, with improved fibre resolution.

SMH Products

Hultafors Craftsman’s knife range extended

Roger Bisby
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Hultafors Craftsman’s knife range extended

Hultafors Tools has extended its range of Knives specifically for craftspeople.

With a selection of Heavy Duty Knives, Safety Knives, Chisel Knives and Utility Knives already available from Hultafors in the UK, there’s also specially designed and developed products for Electricians, Plumbers and Painters.

The new Knives include those for general-purpose outdoor use as well as ones for precision tasks. Each Hultafors Craftsman’s knife is ergonomically designed and made from the highest quality Japanese steel, which is honed and sharpened for durability and effectiveness.

The Handles are made from a friction-grip Santoprene and Sheaths are made from extra durable polypropylene plastic with special fasteners so they can easily be carried on Snickers working clothes.

What’s more, all the different knives are colour coded so you can pick the right one first time from your Toolbox.

www.hultafors.co.uk

False Gas Safety Checks – North Devon Engineer Fined

Dylan Garton
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False Gas Safety Checks – North Devon Engineer Fined

A gas engineer undertook gas work despite his registration with Gas Safe Register (GSR) lapsing and produced false gas safety checks claiming the work had been completed by a member of Gas Safe Register.

Peter Strudwick, 58, appeared at Barnstaple Magistrates’ Court after undertaking servicing of commercial catering gas appliances at a mobile catering van in February 2015 despite his membership with GSR lapsing some seven months before. He used his former GSR number and logo on the paperwork he issued after that servicing.

Later, in May 2015, Strudwick undertook gas safety inspections on the same commercial catering gas equipment but this time he used a false name and a false GSR number on the paperwork that he issued.

False gas safety checks
False gas safety checks totally unacceptable

False Gas Safety Checks Lesson

A few days later the operator of the catering van noticed Strudwick had used another name and a false GSR number and became suspicious.

She arranged for another gas engineer to check the catering equipment. Subsequently, Peter Strudwick’s activities were investigated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) who prosecuted him.

Peter Strudwick of Bridge Plats Way, Bideford, pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching Regulation 3(3) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 and was found guilty of 1 charge of breaching Section 33(1)( l) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined a total of £1,500 and ordered to pay £2,000 in costs.

HSE Inspector Simon Jones, speaking after the hearing, said: “Peter Strudwicks undertook gas work which he should have known he was not registered to do.

“All commercial catering gas work must be done by registered GSR engineers to ensure the highest standards are met to prevent injury and loss of life.

Mr Strudwick knew that he should not have undertaken the gas work but carried on anyway and deliberately tried to deceive the catering van operator by giving her false documentation”

Further information about gas safety can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/gas/.

See more on false gas safety checks with Skill Builder.

First sketches of Volkswagen Crafter revealed

Dylan Garton
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First sketches of Volkswagen Crafter revealed

The first sketches of the new Volkswagen Crafter from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles which is due to be launched this autumn, have been revealed today.

Conceived as the ‘big brother’ of the T-series, Volkswagen says the new Crafter promises innovation alongside a high level of functionality and quality.

Experts at Volkswagen Commercial vehicles say they have worked closely with current customers, frequently accompanying them during their daily routines, to explore their needs and find out their visions of what they wanted the new Crafter to be, allowing them to help shape the new generation.

Volkswagen says customers will see this reflected in both the function and design: the approach, according to Albert-Johann Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN), was thoroughly analytical: “In the commercial vehicle sector especially, design has got to work for lots of different customer groups.”

At 0.33, the new Crafter has a best in class drag coefficient; and inside it is said to combine everyday practicality with optimum cargo space. The new design language shown on the Crafter will continue across all new commercial vehicle derivatives and models.

More details about the Volkswagen Crafter will be coming soon.

Volkswagen crafter

Worker killed after falling through unprotected skylight

Roger Bisby
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Worker killed after falling through unprotected skylight

Two companies based in Northamptonshire have been fined after a worker died following a fall through a roof.

Northampton Crown Court heard how an employee of A-Lift Crane Hire Limited, who had been hired by Premier Roofing Systems Limited to provide them with a crane to lift roofing sheets onto a factory roof at Virani Foods Limited in Wellingborough. Whilst the sheets were being lifted onto the roof, the employee fell through an unprotected skylight and died as a result of his injuries.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident, which occurred on 9 August 2013 found that preventative measures to allow operatives to work safely on the roof were not put in place.

Premier Roofing Systems Limited, of Unit G, The Grove, Corby Northamptonshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, and was fined £140,250 and ordered to pay costs of £41,428.

A-Lift Crane Hire Limited, of Main Road, Wilby Northamptonshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, and was fined £83,300 and ordered to pay costs of £21,500.

Hang Doors Easy Peasy with the Trend 2-Piece Hinge Jig

Roger Bisby
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Hang Doors Easy Peasy with the Trend 2-Piece Hinge Jig

In this video, Skill Builder takes a look at the Trend 2-Piece Hinge Jig, a portable template set designed for recessing hinges in wooden doors & frames.

Key features of the product include:

– It is easy to use with minimal setting-up time, completing the job both accurately & quickly.

– Used on-site & in joinery shops to increase productivity with excellent results.

– Four apertures for fire door requirements.

– No need for marking out in the conventional way.

– Quick & simple to set-up as the hinge is used as the pattern.

– Clean & accurate recesses are achieved every time. Suitable for timber based doors & square butt hinges.

– Can be used on both inside and outside doors.

– Use with a light duty plunge router with 1/4 inch collet.

– Long reach router cutter required, 12mm diameter with 70mm overall length.

– Angled position slots to prevent creep.

– Unibase may be needed.

– T4EK router requires a ref. UNIBASE or special guide bush ref. GB/T4/160.

Find out more about Trend at https://www.trend-uk.com.

St Helens Plasterer wins Fiat Professional Tradesman Trials

Dylan Garton
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St Helens Plasterer wins Fiat Professional Tradesman Trials

St Helens plasterer, River Humphreys, 25, has beaten off stiff competition from across the UK to win the Fiat Professional Tradesman Trials – a search to find a tradesman who has the talent to make it as a professional footballer in the English Football League.

River, a plasterer for Rob Ewan construction, was one of 20 tradesman footballers who took part in the trials day at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre on Friday 24 June.

Former tradesmen turned professional footballers Stuart Pearce (electrician), Dean Windass (hod carrier) and Geoff Horsfield (builder) put the triallists through their paces, testing every aspect of their footballing ability.

After a long day of training and a succession of footballing tests the judges eventually came to a unanimous decision that River was the most deserving participant, displaying a level of talent, dedication and temperament that they believe could see him succeed at a professional level in the English Football League.

View a video of the trials day and see River Humphreys in action.

Previously a runner-up on TV competition Wayne Rooney’s Street Striker, and centre half for Runcorn Linnets FC, River has selected League One side Rochdale AFC and now has the chance to earn himself a full-time professional contract. Previously an academy player at both Everton and Wrexham, River also wins a cheque for £2,000.

After Pearce announced him as the winner, River said: “It’s a weird feeling. I thought after coming so close previously it wouldn’t work out for me. I’m looking forward to my month at Rochdale and seeing what I can do. The day was a fantastic experience, even if I hadn’t won, being coached by three such big names in football. Everyone who attended the trials day will go back to their clubs  having learned from Stuart, Geoff and Dean.”

England legend, Stuart Pearce commented: “After putting all the players through their paces in the morning, it was clear that River was head and shoulders above the rest of the competition. His temperament and decision-making was absolutely top-class, and we’re all delighted for him. He’s a worthy winner.”

Andrea Patti, Fiat Professional UK Marketing Manager said: “We’re absolutely delighted for River and are excited about the journey he is about to set out on. Stuart, Dean and Geoff were unanimous in their decision that he was the most deserving participant. We will follow his journey on trial at Rochdale very closely and have our fingers crossed that he will be able to earn himself a life-changing professional contract at the end of it. Who knows, we might have found the next Jamie Vardy or Charlie Austin.

“Fiat Professional has a proud history of working closely with tradesmen and satisfying their varying needs in terms of mobility and transport. We know that a large percentage of them are football fans and we are proud to be a partner of the English Football League.”

A buyer’s guide to windows

Dylan Garton
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A buyer’s guide to windows

If you are considering replacing your current windows or designing a new home,  Neil Ginger, CEO of Origin, a UK specialist manufacturer of bi-folding doors and windows, has 10 tips to help you choose the right window for your property, things to look out for and the questions to ask.

What type of window do I need?
Selecting the right window for a home can be a daunting task given all the styles available. One of the easiest ways to choose is to decide upon the main function required– to let in more light, provide a view, add ventilation or to enhance the space within a room– this will enable you to choose which type you need, whether it’s a casement, bay or gable window,or perhaps a roof-light for extra light, or in fact a French Door to serve as an entrance.

What type of frame will suit my style of home?
Frame strength and durability are important factors to consider when investing in a window system.

uPVC – is usually the cheaper option and has thicker sightlines than aluminium, due to the material not being, in our opinion, as innately strong, meaning less glass and subsequently, less light.

Timber – can look great in certain types of property and offers a warm feel, but like uPVC, tends to have wide sightlines, and requires maintenance to keep it looking good and working well, especially when in direct sunlight.

Aluminium – offers strength and weight, allowing for narrow frames and better sightlines. It is low maintenance and tends to come with longer guarantees, as it is resilient to flexing, expanding or contracting.

How do I ensure my windows are thermally efficient?
The best indicators of thermal efficiency are U-Values. U-Values show the amount of heat lost in watts (W) per square metre of material, so the lower the number, the better the thermal efficiency. For windows, the U-Values in the UK must be 1.6 W/(m2K) for replacements and up to 2.0W/(m2K) for new builds and extensions.

Also enquire about additional upgrades to increase thermal performance. For example, Origin offers Aerogel which boosts the window’s thermal efficiency, making it capable of achieving a U-Value of 0.9 and energy rating of A++.

How can I be sure the windows will suit my style of home?
Depending on the style of your property, you may opt to enhance it by installing coloured exterior and/ or interior window frames. Many manufacturers offer a choice of finishes, colours and styling, allowing full customisation to create a perfectly integrated look.

I would also recommend looking for a supplier that can provide the option of having internal and external flush casement. This enables the sash of the window to sit perfectly in line with the frame, and with no overlapping profile, it ensures a smart and elegant appearance. This timeless finish therefore lends itself to all home styles, including traditional townhouses, new builds and projects under strict planning regulations.

What type of guarantee?
The standard industry guarantee is 10 years, but make sure you find out what’s included in this. Some manufacturers will offer different warranties on the paint and components. For example, the Origin guarantee is for 20 years on its window which covers all manufactured parts as well as the powder coated finish.

Budget required?
Prices can range drastically. The price for an aluminium window with an internal and external flush casement would be approximately £300 for 1200mm x 1200mm, without glazing or installation.

How quickly will the products be delivered?
Standard industry lead time can be anything from four to eight weeks. However, Origin can deliver your windows on an‘industry-first’one week lead time in eleven popular colours, and a three week lead time for the further 150 shades.

What security requirements should I look for?
There are a couple of things you should look out for when choosing a window:

  • That the whole system conforms to PAS 24 security standards
  • That the window has been installed with Yale’s highly renowned and dependable Encloser Lock, which features bi-directional locking technology
  • Hinge guards to be installed as standard – this protects the hinges as well as blocking intruders from jemmying the window open
  • Frames should be mechanically crimped for the most secure system

Determine the orientation of the sun before choosing your windows
If you are designing a new home, consider the direction of the rising and setting sun. This will enable you to determine the size of the window you require and the amount of light you’d like coming into a room, whether it be the morning or afternoon sun. Whatever window you choose, make sure it’s designed to keep your rooms cool in hot weather, and your home warm when it is chilly.

Try before you buy
We’d always recommend physically seeing the windows in-situ and operating them before you buy. The best place to do this is in a window & door showroom; they often have more than one window system in place, so you can compare and talk through any other questions with experts.

www.origin-global.com

Need workplace noise monitoring and want to learn how to do it yourself?

Dylan Garton
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Need workplace noise monitoring and want to learn how to do it yourself?

Casella, the provider of dust and noise monitoring equipment is inviting anyone in need of  workplace noise monitoring to attend a one day noise at work training course on 19th July in Bedford.

Casella’s one day course has been created to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills required to effectively monitor workplace noise in accordance with the Noise at Work Regulations. Successful completion of a test at the end of the day provides attendees with certification reflective of their achievements and the ability to start monitoring in their respective workplaces.

During the course Casella’s experts provide training on the use of dosimeters (personal noise monitoring devices) and they offer guidance on how to turn the dosimeter readings into values that help determine the most appropriate form of hearing protection. Users attending the course in May said it was ‘interesting and enjoyable’, as well as being “extremely helpful, covering more than I expected”.

The next course will take place at Casella’s Head Office in Bedford on the 19th July.

For more information please contact Sam Roy SamRoy@casellasolutions.com

Apprenticeship funding more important than ever in wake of Brexit, says FMB

Roger Bisby
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Apprenticeship funding more important than ever in wake of Brexit, says FMB

The Government must prioritise investment in apprenticeship training as well as ensuring that our new system of immigration provides the construction sector with enough skilled workers to build the homes and infrastructure projects we need, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has urged.

Responding to the British electorate’s decision to leave the European Union, Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The UK construction industry has been heavily reliant on migrant workers from Europe for decades now – at present, 12% of the British construction workers are of non-UK origin. The majority of these workers are from EU countries such as Poland, Romania and Lithuania and they have helped the construction industry bounce back from the economic downturn when 400,000 skilled workers left our industry, most of which did not return. It is now the Government’s responsibility to ensure that the free-flowing tap of migrant workers from Europe is not turned off. If Ministers want to meet their house building and infrastructure objectives, they have to ensure that the new system of immigration is responsive to the needs of industry.”

Berry continued: “At the same time, we need to ensure that we invest in our own home-grown talent through apprenticeship training. We need to train more construction apprentices so we are not overly reliant on migrant workers from Europe or further afield. That’s why it’s so important that the Government gets the funding framework right for apprenticeships – when you consider that this whole policy area is currently in flux, and then you add Brexit into the mix, it’s no exaggeration to say that a few wrong moves by the Government could result in the skills crisis becoming a skills catastrophe. The next few years will bring unprecedented challenges to the construction and house building sector, and it’s only through close collaboration between the Government and industry that we’ll be able to overcome them.”

www.fmb.org.uk/

A whole new level: Hultafors spirit level review

Roger Bisby
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A whole new level: Hultafors spirit level review

Roger Bisby sets out on a quest to find a better level and discovers a few things he didn’t know about spirit levels.

Earlier this year I had a run of spirit level trouble which cost me half a day putting right a structure. I always check my level by turning it through 180 degs. but I didn’t check both ends for plumb. It wasn’t until I had built a dormer and measured the wall plate both ends that I discovered that one end of the level was not reading right. It was giving me a false reading which, although not much on the vial translated to 10mm over 3 metre uprights. Admittedly the level had been dropped once or twice but nothing dramatic so I was mystified as to how a vial can become so badly out of line. It was supposed to be a quality American level but when I picked out the rubber ring I discovered that the whole roundel was turning. It must have been sealed with nothing more than a couple of dabs of super glue. So I chucked that level in my scrap bin and got another level from my shed. To my great surprise this level was hardly any better. Again it was the plumb that was out. It was near enough, if near enough is what you want, so I gave it to a paving layer and told him not to use it for plumb.

I then decided that I needed to talk to a few people about levels beofore I made my next purchase. It is easy enough to simply go for Stabila when you are looking for quality, and there is nothing wrong with that, but surely the German’s can’t be the only people in the world making a good level?

In my quest I came across Hultafors. This is a company that doesn’t do low end tools so I figured that their levels would be no exception. It wasn’t until I started looking at the manufacturing and test procedure that I appreciated just what goes into these levels and it gave me a much clearer idea of what I should be looking for. You can start with the vial (or bubble) because this is what everyone looks at. The Hultafors vial has two shaded areas either side of the bubble rather than the metal rings that are placed in many vials. So the only bit you are looking at is the bit in the middle which is made lighter by the mirror, which is moulded into the vial. The bubble is magnified 4 X so people like me don’t have to be reaching for their glasses every time. The tolerance on the bubble is just 0.5mm. On some levels the vial glows in the dark but in this level it is the bubble that glows not the surrounding bit so when you see the whole of the bubble with no clipped end you know you are there. The vial has a 30 year warranty on the vial sealing. I showed the level to a carpenter mate and he dismissed it out of hand because he doesn’t like curved vials because they don’t react too quickly. I then pointed out that it is only the magnification bit of the glass that is curved. If you view the bubble at eye level you will see that the vial is straight and the bit above is the curved  lens.

Another thing I found out is that vials are affected by electrical charges. If there is static or a strong electrical field it can pull the bubble a long way off level. Hultafors uses a liquid with anti static properties. There is also no chance of the bubble separating in this liquid. I tried to make it happen and couldn’t. I also used the level upside down because some are better than others in this respect.

The accuracy and behaviour of the vial is the same either way, which, being straight it should be. I am very glad to see that the levels I got for testing didn’t have a milled edge. I hate milled surfaces on levels because they clog up and you are forever cleaning the snots off. If you have a good extrusion with a reasonable thickness and some ribs there is no reason why it should distort unless you stand on it and even if  you did a milled edge would go with the bend so it achieves nothing.

I mentioned at the beginning that I dropped my old level a couple of times, it happens, and most manufacturers put in some kind of plastic end cap to help absorb the shock. A lot of end caps are made of polypropylene or something else that doesn’t absorb much shock. Why would you make a shock absorbing end cap out of hard plastic? The end caps on the Hultafors level are a kind of synthetic rubber with a hollow bit in the middle to allow the cap to deflect. They also seem to be very well fixed in which is not always the case. I didn’t stand there and drop the level several times on the concrete to test the shock absorbancy because that test was done in the laboratory with a variety of materials before they came up with this one. Of course you do see people who put a level down and tap it with the handle of a lump hammer to level out a brick course which kind of negates the whole purpose of shock absorbers. In the end a level is, or should be, a precision instrument and it deserves respect.

Bosch announces new generation of cordless screwdrivers

Dylan Garton
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Bosch announces new generation of cordless screwdrivers

Bosch has launched a new generation of 18 V cordless screwdrivers; the new ‘dynamicseries’ and a ‘robustseries’ which are now available from specialist retailers from £236 to £405. All four models have new functions which Bosch says offer a higher level of comfort for professionals such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers and heating installers.

The compact ‘dynamicseries’ range of tools combines covers the GSR 18 V-EC Professional cordless screwdrivers and GSB 18 V-EC Professional cordless combi drills.

Meanwhile the ‘robustseries’ consists of durable, high-performance tools, and features the GSR 18 VE-EC Professional and GSB 18 VE-EC Professional models.

These are the first Bosch cordless screwdrivers or combi drills of this class to have brushless motor technology.

Increased comfort, reduced wear-and-tear

The cordless screwdrivers and combi drills have a newly designed precision coupling which Bosch claims is unique in the market. An electronic control system detects when this coupling is overloaded and stops the motor in order to avoid over-tightening when fastening screws. This prevents the loud noise caused by over-tightening, minimizes vibrations, and causes less wear to the material and coupling. This, in turn, results in reduced wear-and-tear and a longer service life for the tool and accessories. All screwdrivers also come equipped with a robust 13 mm solid metal drill chuck.

Greater control

The Softgrip handle has a grooved structure, meaning that it is easier to hold, especially when working overhead or in tight, hard-to-reach spaces. Two LEDs alert tradesmen when the tool stops: A white LED to show that the tool has a blockage and a red LED when the tool is overheating. The proven ‘KickBack Control’ function (previously known as Electronic Rotation Control), an exclusive feature of the ‘dynamicseries’, gives users full control, even for the toughest screwdriving and drilling jobs. The integrated sensor detects sudden tool blockages such as foreign objects in the metal, wood or brickwork and shuts down the motor within a fraction of a second.

This prevents unexpected kickback of the tool and, therefore, can reduce the risk of injury.

All models are fitted with a brushless EC motor and are maintenance-free. EC technology enables compact design – the head length of the ‘dynamicseries’ screwdriver matches that of the cordless screwdriver and combi drill from the 10.8 V class, which makes it well-suited for most applications.

The ‘robustseries’ models have a maximum torque of up to 75 newton meters. The additional hand grip gives users optimum control even when dealing with great forces from heavy screwdriving, drilling and impact drilling. Thanks to the new locking mechanism, it is also quick and easy to affix.

All tools are delivered in the L-Boxx with 4.0 or 5.0 Ah batteries and a quick charger.

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

DeWalt XR Flexvolt available from August

Roger Bisby
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DeWalt XR Flexvolt available from August

DeWalt has confirmed that the DeWalt XR Flexvolt battery, a 54 v battery which can power even heavy duty construction power tools which the company unveiled earlier this week, will be available from August.

Completely backwards compatible with existing DEWALT XR 18V products, the DeWalt XR Flexvolt battery is said to offer market-leading runtime in 18V products, with the option to amplify its voltage to power newly developed 54V heavy duty construction equipment.

Eight new products
The power of the DeWalt XR Flexvolt battery opens up new avenues in cordless, heavy duty construction power tools, and DeWalt is launching a new XR Flexvolt product range at the same time.

The new DeWalt XR Flexvolt range is comprised of 8 products: a 54V Grinder, 54V SDS plus Hammer, 54V Circular saw, 54V Alligator saw, 54V Reciprocating Saw, 54V Plunge saw, 54V Table saw, 54V 216mm Mitre saw.

These are cordless, heavy duty construction power tools said to provide the accuracy, capacity and power of corded.

The DeWalt XR Flexvolt Table saw for example is a power tool capable of cutting 50m of 19mm (¾”) OSB from just one charge of a single battery – yet portable enough to be easily moved from room to room, and without the need to search for a power source.

Commenting on the launch, Darren Barber, DeWalt Marketing Director UK & ROI says: “To put this simply, the DeWalt XR Flexvolt range is the next chapter in cordless technology.

DeWalt is launching a range of tools that are not just extremely powerful – they will also provide in excess of a full day’s runtime on single charge for most users.

The potential for this technology is limitless: for each and every trade.”

dewalt.co.uk/systems/cordless-ranges/xr-flexvolt

Suspended prison sentence for Manchester gas worker

Dylan Garton
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Suspended prison sentence for Manchester gas worker

A man who fitted central heating boilers at two houses in Greater Manchester has received a suspended prison sentence, after he admitted he did not have the required safety registration to do the work.

Christopher Dignam, trading at Blue Flame Plumbing and Heating Services, has never been on the Gas Safe Register, the body which ensures those who carry out gas work are competent to do so.

One of the two boilers fitted by him in November and December 2014 was found by a Gas Safe investigator to be ‘at risk’ – meaning that faults were present which could constitute a danger to life or property.

Advertisements for Blue Flame Plumbing and Heating in two local publications showed a Gas Safe Register logo and a registration number which does not belong to Dignam, confirming that he knew he should be Gas Safe Registered, the court heard

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Caroline Shorrock said: “Dignam showed a reckless and flagrant disregard for health and safety requirements. He knew he should be registered with Gas Safe and he exposed customers to a risk of serious injury or death.”

Dignam, of Kenyon Lane, Middleton, Manchester, pleaded guilty to two breaches of Regulations 3(3), and for breaching 3(7) and 26(1) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. He was sentenced to 12 months custody, suspended for two years. He was ordered to pay £460 and £400 compensation to the two homeowners and £3,000 costs.

New practical hardtops for Volkswagen Amarok

Dylan Garton
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0
New practical hardtops for Volkswagen Amarok

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched two new Truckman hardtops for its Amarok pick-up. Available in a wide range of colours, the RS and Utility hardtops are said to offer customers a practical yet stylish storage area. Volkswagen says they differ from the current ‘luxury’ GLS and Grand hardtops as they have been designed for more commercial use.

Features of the RS hardtop include an integrated spoiler, non-drilling clamp fitting, solid sides for secure storage and cab height to create a sleek finish. With gull wing side access, a wash-clean interior and significant roof strength which allows additional storage, the utility hardtop also has a large capacity with plenty of space for racking and tools.

The RS combines the workability of a commercial hardtop with the advanced styling of a leisure top. It has a practical wipe clean interior and solid sides for a secure, hidden load whilst the rear door glass is tinted and toughened.

Trevor Hodgson-Phillips, Head of Service and Parts for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: ‘The two new Truckman Amarok hardtops further enhance the range of off-the-shelf storage solutions we can offer as a brand. There is now even greater choice for business users and those Amarok owners that require a more commercial practical storage solution.

‘Working in partnership with Truckman, we’ve developed two new products that not only meet Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ stringent manufacturing and technical standards, but also enable us to meet the business needs of our customers. With the variety of colours available, the new hardtops are guaranteed to make Volkswagen drivers stand out from the rest.’

The new hardtops can be ordered via Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles network of Van Centres, and are made to order in the UK.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

Dewalt unveils 54V battery which provides power of corded with freedom of cordless

Dylan Garton
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0
Dewalt unveils 54V battery which provides power of corded with freedom of cordless

DEWALT is claiming to have “changed the game” in the power tool market as it unveils a range of 54V power tools that offer new levels of runtime and performance.

With the new XR Flexvolt range Dewalt promises tradespeople they will be able to undertake heavy-duty construction applications without the need for mains power.

This innovation means that you can have 54V power across a whole range of tools without the inconvenience of a cable. DeWALT XR FLEXVOLT can also switch from 54V to 18V, making it backwards-compatible with existing XR power tools.

The range includes an XR grinder, a circular saw and a cordless table saw to name just a few.

From Electricians and Plumbers to Carpenters and Roofers Dewalt claims “Whatever your trade, XR FLEXVOLT will change the way you work.”

On the jobsite of the future, as envisioned by Dewalt, there is no time wasted searching for power sources, no dangerous cables and complete freedom of movement.

Young entrepreneur designs kneepad to reduce osteoarthritis

Roger Bisby
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0
Young entrepreneur designs kneepad to reduce osteoarthritis

A young entrepreneur from Glasgow has redesigned the traditional kneepad to launch a product aimed at tradespeople which reduces pressure on the knee by 76%.

Vicky Hamilton, 25, a product design engineering graduate from the University of Strathclyde, originally developed Recoil Kneepads as part of her final year project. She was inspired to help her dad, Gordon Hamilton, 48 who suffers from osteoarthritis, which he believes has been caused by his lifelong career as a joiner.

The multi-award winning design sandwiches springs between two layers acting as a shock absorbing and pressure reduction system. Pressure is reduced across the entire knee joint rather than focusing on one small area. The double layer system pivots so the user can kneel from side to side without the kneepad slipping away and the strap rests on the shin rather than the back of the knee, improving comfort.

The product is aimed at construction workers with the annual rate of musculoskeletal injuries in the construction sector statistically significantly higher (approx. 2%) than all other industries (1.3%), according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Vicky said: “The idea for Recoil came about one evening when I was listening to my dad complain about his sore knees at the dinner table. None of the kneepads he had tried were helping and it suddenly clicked that I could create something that would improve life for him and other tradespeople.

“A huge amount of research has gone into the development of Recoil Kneepads over the last four years to create a product that outperforms those already available on the market.”

The kneepads have been put through their paces at the University of Strathclyde laboratories, with tests finding they decrease pressure by 76%, making them more effective at reducing pain than the major competitor brands. The nearest competitor reduces pressure by 60.7%.

Vicky’s dad, Gordon, said: “I am extremely proud of what Vicky has achieved. She has certainly found a solution to a problem myself and many others in the trade suffer from. I find Recoil Kneepads extremely comfortable and they make prolonged kneeling a lot more bearable. I never thought my complaining would have resulted in such a fantastic product!”

Vicky added: “I want Recoil to have a positive impact within the UK business community. We manufacture the kneepads in the UK in Edinburgh, and I plan to invest in job creation over the next year. I’m also very interested in connecting with potential stockists over the next few months.”

Price: £39.99 incl. VAT (introductory offer)
Dimensions: 26cm x 14cm x 13cm
Weight: 445g

www.recoilkneepads.com

How to: Lay floor levelling compound

Roger Bisby
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0
How to: Lay floor levelling compound

Further to popular demand on Skill Builder’s YouTube channel, in this video Roger Bisby provides an indepth guide that shows how to lay floor levelling compound in association with Bostik.

The first point Roger makes is that these are floor levelling compounds and not screeds, a screed is something that’s put down on top of concrete to form a level base and sometimes if that screed isn’t completely smooth a floor levelling compound is laid over the top. Floor levelling compounds can also be used on existing floors if they’re uneven or they’ve dropped when they can be used to level the floor out or if you’re trying to raise two floors to the same level, for example when one room has been knocked through to another. Floor levelling compounds can also be used on timber floors as demonstrated in this video.

 

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