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Electrocution Death a Stark Warning to Companies in High Voltage Environments

Roger Bisby
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Electrocution Death a Stark Warning to Companies in High Voltage Environments

This week’s news that Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission has been heavily fined following the electrocution death of a worker serves as a grave reminder of the importance of training, according to Develop Training Ltd (DTL), the UK training and consultancy specialist.

The electricity company was fined £133,000 after Gareth Aitken was killed while working on the Beauly-Dounreay line on 2 August 2012.  The firm admitted it had failed to adequately ensure a safe system of work was in place.

Electricity kills many people every year and severely injures even more. To raise awareness of the associated risks, DTL, in conjunction with City & Guilds, is hosting free to attend Compliance in High Voltage (HV) Disciplines seminars in Derby (6th September), London (28th September), Swindon (11th October) and York (18th October).

They will cover various topics, including legislative requirements in HV disciplines, HV safety rules and procedures and authorised person field compliance auditing.

DTL believes that effective training can play a big part in reducing the risks involved in working with high voltage equipment.

Steve Braund, marketing manager at DTL, explains: “The news concerning Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission this week really brings home the fact that training is vital in this area to safeguard against such tragic events occurring again. We’ve created these seminars to ensure companies are aware of the legislation affecting work in high voltage environments, to showcase both DTL’s training capabilities in this area and illustrate how we are collaborating with City & Guilds to ensure excellent training delivery standards.”

Bosch introduces first cordless 18v orbital sander

Roger Bisby
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Bosch introduces first cordless 18v orbital sander

Bosch has launched a range of compact orbital sanders which includes what is said to be the world’s first cordless 18 V orbital sander.

Intended for small preparatory sanding work, the range comprises the GSS 18 V-10 Professional and three corded tools: The GSS 140-1 A Professional, the GSS 160-1 A Professional and the GSS 160 Multi Professional.

These orbital sanders offer flexibility thanks to three different exchangeable base plates which make it easy to switch between a square, rectangular or triangular sanding plate to suit the task at hand. Each sanding sheet is fixed using the established “Easy Fit” clamping system or by using a micro-fastener (Velcro), depending on the base plate. Weighing between 1.1 and 1.5 kilograms, the tools also are considerably lighter than their predecessors and, thanks to the ergonomic knob with soft grip, can be easily moved into different positions and operated using only one hand.

Versatile orbital sanders for different applications

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The GSS 18 V-10 Professional cordless orbital sander, now makes working overhead and in difficult to reach places easier . The benefit of cordless is that there are no cables to damage the surface of sensitive materials. The cordless orbital sander is available with a square sanding plate or with all three sanding plates .

The GSS 140-1 A Professional comes with a square base plate and is suitable for sanding small, even surfaces. The new metal base plate makes the tool even more robust than previous models. Users can work with both a standard sanding sheet or a sanding sheet that they have cut to size themselves, as it is attached using either a Velcro fastener or the “Easy Fit” clamping system.

The GSS 160-1 A Professional comes with a rectangular sanding plate as standard and is particularly suited to machining sharp edges, such as those on dining tables. In comparison to the square base plate, the narrower base plate minimizes the risk of the orbital sander slipping over the edge while sanding, thereby rounding it. The sanding sheet is fixed by means of a Velcro fastener, which makes it easy to replace. In addition to the square and rectangular base plate, the GSS 160 Multi Professional offers a triangular sanding plate for simple machining of corners, window frames, doors on furniture and panels of all kinds.

Effective dust extraction

All four models feature an efficient dust extraction system. Dust is either absorbed by the micro-filter in the supplied dust box or is directly extracted by a connected vacuum cleaner.

The corded orbital sanders are now available from specialist retailers, with the cordless tool following in the autumn. The models are offered in a cardboard box or L-Boxx with a different range of accessories included and start from £68.00.

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

Starlock accessory range review

Roger Bisby
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Starlock accessory range review
Roger Bisby tries out the new Starlock range.

It is fairly unusual to see rival power-tool companies collaborating in research and development but Bosch and Fein linked up to develop the Starlock system for their oscillating tools. It is an attempt to do what the SDS drill bit did for hammer drills, in other words a simple click lock system that doesn’t require tools and will become the standard. The blades are backwards compatible with other star fit oscillating tools but you wont get the Starlock feature unless you purchase a Starlock tool.

So in essence the Starlock feature is redundant on earlier tools and redundant on other blades. Let’s be clear; the collaboration is on the star insert of the blade and not the blade itself so there is a Fein Starlock, made in the Fein factory in Germany, and a Bosch Starlock range made in their blade factory in Switzerland, which last time I looked was making jig saw and recip saw blades for many global brands.

As much as we all love oscillating tools most people are slightly taken aback by the price of the accessories so I have to disappoint you by saying that this range does nothing to reduce the cost.

That said there are entry level Starlocks and you then move up in price and performance with Starlock Plus and onto Starlock Max.

I am not seeking to defend the manufacturers pricing structure but in my tests I found the rise in price was reflected in performance and having bought budget priced blades in the past I am persuaded that you get what you pay for, not just in longevity but also in speed of cut. When you look at the fairly narrow arc of the average oscillating too l you can understand why a cheap bit of steel just won’t cut the mustard. It works hard and it works fast. But it isn’t just the superior steel, there is also much better contact and power transfer from tool to blade when you use the Starlock system and that is particularly important in cordless tools.

If you look at the way some ‘universal’ blades fit, with an open U shaped channel on one side you can see that any kind of movement and flexing on the fixing point leads to a loss of transmission. This is not only true when comparing Starlock with budget priced blades but also when you compare the new blades with the older style from the same stable. I would imagine that Fein and Bosch will be looking to phase the older style of blade out as the new blades catch on, which is probably why they introduced the entry level grade. I would say the entry level is comparable with the older style blades in terms of price and performance and from there you move up. These performance claims are very difficult to substantiate outside of a laboratory but having used them on site and counted the cuts I am fairly sure that they stack up.

Changing blades could not be easier. Just place the tool on the back of the blade and press down.

You will hear a click which is the spring loaded jaws snapping over the blade to hold it secure. If you want to release the blade flick the lever on the tool and the blade falls out. It is a well designed system and so it should be with the combined brains of Bosch and Fein on the job.

Hot water pressure washers

Roger Bisby
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Hot water pressure washers

Nilfisk has launched a range of mid-range hot water pressure washers which feature a four wheel design which makes them easier to pull or push on uneven surfaces such as construction sites.

The low centre of gravity of the MH 3M & MH 4M models is enabled by the internal distribution of components making the manoevrable units easy to tip and steer from left to right. Transport is aided by a footplate at the rear of the unit.

The MH models are fitted with a new boiler system independently certified to be more than 92% efficient. In EcoMode the unit will not only maintain excellent performance but reduce fuel costs too.

Hot water power
Most of the time cold water delivered at pressure will clean applications satisfactorily. There are times however, often when oil or grease are present, that only hot water will do the job. The MH models are fitted with a new boiler system independently certified to be more than 92% efficient.

Cleaning with hot water has been proven to reduce cleaning time and therefore the associated labour cost. Whole life running costs, including purchase cost, labour, water, fuel and service elements demonstrate a saving of over 26% compared to cold water only.

Whether the application calls for cold or hot water however the option for instant detergent is only a button push away.

Design innovation
The new MH range delivers pump pressures up to 220 bar with both units featuring brass pump heads and 3 ceramic pistons. An easy to open cabinet provides direct access to the pump which is protected by a large inlet water filter.

The new design also incorporates a unique spray gun holder that prevents the gun from being damaged during transport. A turnable hook enables secure winding of the power cable whilst hose reels are easily mounted. A large storage box adds useful flexibility for the operator.

Company Fined For Exposing Family to Asbestos

Roger Bisby
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Company Fined For Exposing Family to Asbestos

A Hertfordshire-based home improvement company has been fined after the unsafe removal of asbestos material from a domestic property.

St Albans Magistrates’ Court heard how Ace of Hearts Home Improvement Limited (AOH) removed asbestos containing materials (ACM) from a domestic property in St Albans.

Asbestos damage

The Asbestos Insulation Board (AIB) soffits surrounding the underside of the guttering around the front, gable end and back of the property had been dismantled in an unsafe manner creating the serious risk of respiratory exposure of asbestos fibres to the two workers and the residents of the property (family of four including two children).

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident which occurred on 25 Sept 2015 found that the company were not licensed to remove asbestos.

Unsafe removal of asbestos

Ace of Hearts Home Improvements Limited, of Alldicks Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 8(1) and Regulation 16 of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2012, and The Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, Section 33 (1) (g) in that it failed to comply with an Improvement Notice, and was fined £100,000 and ordered to pay costs of £2,118.50.

www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos

Forgefix launches high performance screw range

Roger Bisby
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Forgefix launches high performance screw range

ForgeFix, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of fixings, fasteners and associated products, has developed a new range of screws which the company says has exceptional performance characteristics.

The best screws on the market?
In independent tests, the new screws outperformed most other premium screws on the market in areas such as drive-speed, cam-out reduction, corrosion resistance, shear prevention and even environmental protection according to Forgefix.

The new screws will be sold under the brand name, ForgeFast. They will also be positioned as ‘elite performance screws’.

Mike Pollard, product manager at ForgeFix, explains: “The screws within the ForgeFast range set a new benchmark in so many areas of fastening performance that it made sense to position them in a new performance category.

“Elite performance screws will help the trade to recognise that there are premium screws – and then there are screws which can deliver even higher performance levels.”

The new ForgeFast screws feature reinforced countersunk necks, angled or inset lobes, double cutting or sharp points, and anti-friction or self-drilling threads.

The new ForgeFast screws also benefit from ForgeFix’s proprietary Elementech 400 coating. This coating, which has been salt spray tested to 400 hours, gives the new screws exceptional weather resistance and lasts up to six times longer than more commonplace zinc coatings.

Elementech is also free of CR6 (hexavalent chromium) which remains widely used as a coating despite being potentially toxic and implicated in the development of lung and other cancers.

Both Pozi and Torx head screws are available under the ForgeFast brand and in sizes ranging from 3.0×12 to 6.0×240. The new ForgeFast Torx head range replaces ForgeFix’s existing TorxFast screw and builds on the already considerable features and success of that product.

Concluding, Mike Pollard adds: “The introduction of the new ForgeFast range represents an exciting new development not just for ForgeFix, but for the industry as a whole.

“ForgeFast screws genuinely break new ground with their performance. As such, we’re confident they will prove a popular choice with users and also with stockists due to their ability to deliver strong and sustained sales.”

Plummeting Pound is Pushing up Material Costs, Warns FMB

Dylan Garton
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Plummeting Pound is Pushing up Material Costs, Warns FMB

Concerns over pushing up material costs could be exacerbated by a weakening currency following the EU referendum result, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has warned.

Commenting on the FMB’s State of Trade Survey results for Q2 2016, which show that two-thirds of construction SME bosses predict material price inflation, Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Following the EU referendum, the plummeting value of sterling has further complicated an already difficult situation for small construction firms.

Even prior to the referendum result, nearly two in three bosses were anticipating rising material costs, on which there has been intense pressure over the past couple of years, as demand for projects has picked up again.

With the dramatic fall in currency value however, we’re concerned that the trend towards price inflation will gather pace.

We’ve already heard accounts of timber and brick costs rising, and a number of sources have said that even steel prices have risen by 8% since the decision was made to leave the EU.

Berry continued: “Combined with the continuing skills shortages shown in our survey results, which puts upwards pressure on salaries and wages, the costs associated with running a small construction firm are on the rise. Too many are already operating on razor-thin margins and are forced to tender at prices which barely return a profit in order to remain competitive.

This leaves little capacity to absorb dramatic price increases. The results show that firms were already pencilling in escalating costs for the coming months, but few will have anticipated a 9 per cent drop against the Euro and 12% against the American Dollar.

The UK construction industry is heavily reliant on imported products and materials so this situation is very concerning indeed.

Berry concluded: “It’s important to note that this survey was conducted prior to the referendum and shows that SMEs were consolidating their recovery, with demand in the private sector continuing to pick up.

If this wavers, as suggested by recent ONS stats showing that the construction sector is now in recession, then the Government must do everything in its power to reverse this situation and get Britain building again.

Our survey shows that despite an improving overall picture prior to the referendum, public sector workloads for smaller firms continued to decline – a trend that has gone on for too many years.

A significant programme of publicly-funded capital investment in crucial areas such as housing and infrastructure, along with a renewed focus on improving public procurement processes for SMEs so that they can benefit from these opportunities, would be enough to hush any whispers of a post-referendum recession.”

See more on the Federation of Master Builders with Skill Builder.

Wale Tale review

Roger Bisby
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Wale Tale review

Roger Bisby takes a look at the Wale Tale (sic), a device designed to minimise the spread of dust when mixing construction powders.

Dust and the related health issues are a ticking time bomb in the building industry. Everyone knows about asbestos and most intelligent people do everything they can to avoid exposure to it but dust doesn’t begin and end with asbestos. The minerals used in concrete and any number of cement based products can do a huge amount of damage down the line. This could be anything from asthma to cancer and of course silicosis. There are many things we can do to cut down on the amount of dust be breathe in, I don’t believe it can be eliminated completely because you have to work but if you cut it down to a level where your body can deal with it you might just avoid spending your retirement coughing your lungs up.

Mixing powders such as plaster, and adhesives can create a surprising amount of dust. You only become aware of it if you shine a bright light through the air and then you see the true extent of the air polution.

Mixing powders such as plaster, and adhesives can create a surprising amount of dust. You only become aware of it if you shine a bright light through the air and then you see the true extent of the air polution.

The Wale Tale is a simple device that goes onto any dust extractor to suck dust from around the rim of the mixing bucket. It fits some vessels better than others but it is possible to adapt it slightly with a couple of wire hooks if you find it isn’t staying in position.

https://goo.gl/n35XvD

Once the powder is damp and the mixing is under way you are better off removing the Wale Tale to stop it becoming clogged but during that initial stage when the powder goes in it is well worth using. Not only will it save your lungs it will also cut down on the amount of dust escaping into the building. If you are working in an occupied building the occupants might also thank you but then again they probably won’t. People seem very quick to complain about the amount of dust you make but are slow to mention your efforts to avoid it.

Concrete manufacturer sentenced after worker’s arm severed

Roger Bisby
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Concrete manufacturer sentenced after worker’s arm severed

A Bristol based manufacturer of concrete products has been fined after a worker’s arm was torn off when it was pulled into the rotating tail pulley of a conveyor belt.

Bristol Crown Court heard the injured man was making adjustments to a misaligned conveyor belt at Concrete Fabrications Ltd plant in Henbury, Bristol on 18 May 2015.

The court heard that to do this, the man who does not wish to be named, had to adjust tensioning rods which were located inside the machine’s guards, in close proximity to the conveyor belt and rotating tail pulley.

The worker noticed that aggregate had built up on the tensioning rod and he tried to knock off the material with a hammer so he could use a spanner to adjust the rod. However, the hammer was dragged into the rotating machinery along with the employee’s arm which was severed between the shoulder and the elbow.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), prosecuting told the court that Concrete Fabrications Ltd should have had adequate guards on dangerous parts of machinery.

It said clear procedures should exist regarding maintenance and adjustments of machinery and arrangements should be in place to ensure that machinery is not run without the necessary guarding in place, and that clear isolation and lock off procedures exist.

An unsafe system of work existed for the maintenance of machinery, in so much that the dangerous moving parts of the machine were exposed during maintenance operations. A sufficient risk assessment would have identified the risks associated with tracking conveyor belts, and identified appropriate control measures.

Concrete Fabrications Ltd of Cole Road, St Phillips, Bristol, United Kingdom, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974 and was fined £100,000 with £7758 costs awarded to HSE.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Matthew Tyler said: “Company’s need to ensure the risks associated with maintenance tasks are adequately assessed, and effectively controlled, through adequate guarding of dangerous parts of machinery, and the existence of clear robust procedures in respect of maintenance and adjustments of machinery, including isolation and lock off requirements. The consequences of not doing this are clear to see here today.”

Volkswagen Unveils New Look Crafter

Roger Bisby
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Volkswagen Unveils New Look Crafter

Volkswagen has revealed the design of its 2017 Crafter panel van which promises good functionality for a vehicle of its size along with a host of safety technology thanks to the addition of electric power steering, a first for a panel van of this size.

All-new EU 6 engines and new exterior design give the model the lowest consumption and emission figures with the engines designed for both short and long-distance driving.

Manoeuvrable and solid regardless of payload

According to Volkswagen the all-new Crafter has been designed to ensure maximum practicality. For example, the new vehicle combines extensive cargo capacity with minimal external dimensions, making it extremely manoeuvrable yet solid in its handling, regardless of payload.

Flexible: multiple engine and drivetrain variants

The new Crafter now offers a wide range of derivatives. The new “EA 288Nutz” 2.0-litre TDI engine, developed especially for this model, is available with four power outputs: 102 PS, 122 PS and 140 PS, plus a bi-turbo TDI with 177 PS.

The choice of engines depends on which drive system is selected. Customers have a choice between front, rear and all-wheel drive (4MOTION), as well as the option of a manual or automatic gearbox. Such variety has never been seen before in this segment.

There are also up to three different vehicle lengths available depending on the model chosen, while the closed body variants come with up to three different roof heights. This means customers can configure their new Crafter in line with their specific requirements and find the right combination of engine, gearbox, drive system, vehicle length and roof height to meet their needs.

Variety of driver assistance systems

The Crafter’s electro-mechanical steering system used for the first time in this vehicle class  means active driver assistance systems, such as ESP with trailer stabilisation, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control, post-collision braking system, side wind compensation system and a trailer manoeuvring assistant system among others are all available.

In terms of passive safety, front, side and head airbags for the driver and passengers and an extensive range of warning systems that includes a reversing camera, parking distance monitor and the Rear Traffic Alert system are also on offer. LED headlights, cornering lights and Light Assist ensure a clear view of the road ahead at night, while the Crafter also comes with online services that are tailored to the specific needs of customers.

 

Government action needed to stave off construction recession

Roger Bisby
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Government action needed to stave off construction recession

A significant programme of capital investment by the Government is now needed to tackle the threat of a construction recession – as revealed this week by the latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The construction industry has grown steadily over the past few years and for the sector to experience two consecutive quarters of negative growth demonstrates the powerful effect uncertainty and a lack of confidence can have. The Government must now take bold action and do everything in its power to prevent these preliminary estimates by the ONS from becoming more concrete or sustained. A firm commitment to invest public funds in capital projects such as house building and infrastructure would go a long way to assuaging fears that demand will dive in the wake of Brexit. The country’s housing crisis and the enormous skills shortage our sector faces owe much to how the construction industry suffered during the last economic downturn – it’s pivotal that we learn from those mistakes and find a way to keep Britain building.”

How to install the clever Keylite loft ladder

Roger Bisby
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How to install the clever Keylite loft ladder

Roger demonstrates the clever Keylite loft ladder which is designed to ensure simple, fast installation and ease of use.

With pre-installed Flick-Fit brackets, allowing installation from below the loft, and with a unique detachable ladder which enables one-person installation, the Keylite Loft Ladder is designed to make your life easier.

Features

– Flick-Fit installation – Pre-installed brackets for installation from below
– Continuous seal around trapdoor reduces heat loss
– Pre-fitted handrail as standard
– White 36mm thick insulated trapdoor, with U-Value of 1.1w/ m2k as standard
– Unique detachable ladder – enables one person to install
– Recessed locking system
– Slip resistant treads
– Dovetail joints on all treads
– Scratch resistant protective feet

keyliteroofwindows.com/products/loft-ladder

Hand-made clay roof tiles installed on Scandia-Hus residence

Dylan Garton
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Hand-made clay roof tiles installed on Scandia-Hus residence

Nearly fifty thousand Brookhurst hand-made plain clay roofing tiles have been installed on a stylish Scandia-Hus residence in West Sussex. Brookhurst tiles are made from the highest quality clay material using traditional hand moulding and coal firing techniques.

The Sussex residence is located on a former orchard site acquired with a small cottage which was demolished.  Planners approved the elegant design for the new-build property prepared for the client by Giles Jollands Architect, Chichester, W Sussex, and Scandia-Hus.  Scandia-Hus homes are timber frame, high quality energy efficient buildings that meet the Code for Sustainable Homes’ highest standards using the latest Swedish build technology.  The palette of materials was prepared by Scandia-Hus and approved by the client. Having previously used Brookhurst hand-made tiles on a number of properties, Scandia-Hus was confident in this selection and the colour ways certainly compliment the brickwork of the building.

The tiles which meet the highest technical standards and are fully compliant with BSEN 538 and 539 test standards for strength, durability and weather protection were supplied by Brian Gow Roofing Supplies Ltd of Scaynes Hill, Sussex and are a strongly recommended tile range. “These are a true hand-made clay tile and a high quality product that is excellent value for money,” says Keith Page of BGRS.

Good to work with

As well as meeting the highest technical standards and being fully compliant with BSEN 538 and 539 test standards for strength, durability and weather protection, the Brookhurst tiles are said to be easy to work with. Ray Bunker, Managing Director of Storm Roofing which was appointed specialist contractor explains: “Brookhurst tiles are very good to work with. The profiles are very accurate so it is easy to get a high standard of bond. This clay is superb and gives us good cutting strength where needed. I have been using Brookhurst products for some years now and we have never had to return to a job. We were on site in Kirdford for twelve weeks and the result is a really attractive property.”

Brookhurst plain clay roof tiles are hand-made following the traditional methods that have evolved since the 3rd millennium BC. Blocks of selected clay from a private quarry are thrown on to sanded wooden moulds, cut, flattened and shaped by skilled hands. The tiles are fired in coal-fired kilns at 1070° for more than six days and then cooled slowly.

The Brookhurst traditional tile range features nine standard colours; the colours span from mature dark brown to strong orange likened to Sussex Wealden clay; a dark established feel for Classic, a powerful red single colour just with shades set by the proximity to the fire itself and various blends of colours including the popular Multi, the flagship blend of all the fired colours.

The soft sand granulation on the surface allows the tiles to weather and mellow rapidly; this aging gives the impact of a matured roof in a very short time.

www.sahtas.co.uk

www.scandia-hus.co.uk

Worker trapped by three tonne road roller

Dylan Garton
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Worker trapped by three tonne road roller

An exhibitions and displays company has been fined for safety breaches after a labourer was crushed by a road roller.

The incident occurred in November 2015 at Quantum Exhibitions & Displays Ltd in Hipperholme.

The 26-year-old injured worker sustained several breaks to his right leg tibia and fibula bones along with burns to his right hand and an open fracture of the index finger on the same hand when the three tonne vibrating road roller he was using slid down a steep incline and pinned him beneath it.

Quantum Exhibitions & Displays Ltd of Brow Mills Industrial estate, Hipperholme pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and was fined £70,000 with £4,139.50 costs by Calderdale Magistrates Court.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Jacqueline Ferguson commented: “There was no vehicle restraint or edge protection system in place to prevent vehicles from approaching the unstable edge of the embankment with the foreseeable risk of the vehicle overturning. This was a serious accident that could have proved fatal.

“Companies should be aware that the HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate action against those that fall below the required standards.”

FMB launches TV advert

Dylan Garton
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FMB launches TV advert

The Federation of Master Builders has launched a TV advert using its members to promote Master Builders as the ‘go to’ professionals in the industry.

The FMB advert is being aired on a variety of channels, including Sky News, ITVBe, Home, & More 4 and is being accompanied by radio and online advertising to encourage homeowners to ask for a Master Builder.

The advertising campaign comes in the face of growing competition from online recommendation sites which are now a popular reference point for homeowners looking for tradespeople for building projects.

While concerns have been raised over the practices used by some online review sites in the past, including suggestions that fake reviews were being published while negative reviews weren’t being published at all Checkatrade and Trustatrader committed to improve their practices earlier this year to give people a more complete picture when making buying decisions.

The Trust Mark remains the only Government-backed scheme for vetting tradespeople. Trust Mark is a not-for-profit organisation, where tradespeople sign up to a strict code of conduct before they are allowed to use the TrustMark logo. All FMB members are eligible to become part of Trust Mark.

Skill Builder is still waiting for news of a scheme that vets customers : )

 

 

Concrete Block Shortage Causing Construction Delays

Dylan Garton
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Concrete Block Shortage Causing Construction Delays

Construction sites across the UK are being hit by a concrete block shortage as pressure on raw materials means manufacturers are struggling to keep up with demand.

PFA – a by-product of coal-fired power generation is a key material in the manufacture of most concrete blocks but a move towards alternative forms of energy generation such as gas, nuclear or renewable technologies has resulted in a gradual reduction in the number of coal fired power stations and a consequent reduction in the production of PFA.

Calum Forsyth, managing director of aircrete building solutions manufacturer explains: “PFA – a by-product of coal-fired power generation – is used as a raw material by most concrete manufacturers in the UK, with aircrete being no exception.  The fact that our own aircrete blocks are largely comprised of this material has always provided a positive differentiation in the market place.

“As supplies of fresh PFA have become less readily available, we are developing our manufacturing processes to enable the use of stockpiled PFA.  There is a considerable quantity of such material, built up over the previous century when the UK relied primarily on coal to generate power and was unable to re-use the quantity of PFA produced in the process.

“Stockpiled PFA does not have the same performance characteristics as the fresh material and has required us to initiate changes to our production processes to enable us to utilise it.  While we have been implementing these changes we have simultaneously negotiated purchasing contracts to ensure we have a secured supply of the product for the foreseeable future.

“However, this winter an unprecedented set of circumstances has led to a sudden reduction in the availability of fresh PFA.  A warm winter, combined with exceptionally low gas prices reduced the operation of our remaining coal-fired power stations to unusually low levels.  This coincided with the most buoyant construction sector since the economic collapse of 2008, while the mild winter allowed contractors to keep on site throughout a period traditionally marked by a weather-induced slowdown.

“The inevitable result is a short-term pressure on supply.  While H+H is able to utilise stockpiled PFA we have had to accelerate the development of our production process to accommodate the different characteristics of this raw material.  As with any significant change to manufacturing, this has required considerable adjustments to ensure the quality of the finished product is acceptable.

“The net result is a reduction in yield.  While our plants are still producing around 30% more volume than was the case four years ago, we are facing pressure to supply the growing demand.

“For H+H this is a short-term difficulty.  As we refine our processes to speed production using stockpiled PFA our output is increasing; to ease the immediate situation we are working with our plants in Europe to establish an ongoing supply of imported product.  Throughout the winter, a more normal gas supply market and more typical seasonal temperatures should increase the volume of PFA production once more, which should ease the situation for all manufacturers.

“In the immediate future, we are focusing on directing all of our output to the customers with whom we have long-term supply contracts in place.  This will mean increased pressure on the spot-market for blocks for those who do not have agreements with H+H.”

Essex school fined after refurbishment disturbs asbestos

Dylan Garton
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Essex school fined after refurbishment disturbs asbestos

An Essex school has been fined after poorly-planned and managed refurbishment and maintenance activities exposed school staff and others to asbestos.

Chelmsford Crown Court heard that managers at The Boswells School, Chelmsford, decided to convert an old boiler room at the school into a cleaning store. During the course of this work, asbestos residue on the walls was disturbed and caretakers swept contaminated debris from floors. Their exposure to risk only came to light after a later asbestos survey was completed in the area.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated this incident and learned that asbestos containing materials (ACM’s) were also present in other areas. School caretaking staff and contractors disturbed the fabric of school buildings over many years without being alerted to the presence of ACM’s. Persons who entered potentially contaminated areas were placed at risk of developing serious ill health conditions arising from exposure to airborne respirable asbestos fibres. The school also failed to ensure that spread of asbestos was prevented or reduced.

The Boswells Academy Trust, of Burnham Road, Chelmsford, Essex, pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – Sections 2(1) & 3(1).  The trust was fined £26,000 and ordered to pay costs of £20,000.

HSE Inspector Glyn Davies said after the hearing: “The Boswells Academy Trust should have controlled this potentially lethal risk by identifying the type, location and condition of any asbestos-containing-materials within the fabric of the school, and by implementing suitable precautions to prevent its disturbance. It should then have ensured that such information was shared with anyone liable to disturb this fabric. It may also have arranged for a licensed asbestos contractor to remove any dangerous asbestos safely before commencement of any work.

“This prosecution should act as a reminder, not just to schools but to all persons in control of the repair and maintenance of non-domestic premises, of the need to ensure that a suitable and sufficient assessment of risk from asbestos is carried out, and that correct control measures are put in place to ensure that exposure to asbestos is prevented, so far as is reasonably practicable.”

For further information on asbestos visit: www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/

Irwin Mitchell planning team to advise on £180 million mixed use scheme in Lewes

Roger Bisby
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Irwin Mitchell planning team to advise on £180 million mixed use scheme in Lewes

Work to develop a 15- acre brownfield site in Lewes, East Sussex is to begin following the completion of final legal requirements. Planning for the North Street Quarter development was approved in December 2015 by the South Downs National Park’s planning committee. Permission was granted in May 2016 and the judicial review period has just concluded. The way is now clear for work to start on the site.

The first phase of the North Street Quarter development is scheduled to be completed in 2019 and  will bring considerable assets to the town, including:

  • 243 of the 416 houses, including 165 affordable homes
  • A new health centre serving 26,000 patients
  • An underground public car park with 330 spaces
  • A business/retail district for creative industries

The scheme will also carry out extensive works on the River Ouse, completing the town’s flood defences and creating  new public access to the river with a footbridge and a riverside promenade on two levels. This will provide Lewes with a new riverside leisure area.

Clive Wilding, Director of Santon North Street, said: “North Street Quarter represents a £180m investment in Lewes and is providing the town with much needed affordable housing and public services, including a state of the art health hub accommodating GPs, dentists and a pharmacy.  We are also creating work space and retail outlets, which will provide flexible and affordable premises for creative businesses. We are delighted that, following the three year successful consultative planning stage, we are now starting work on the North Street Quarter development.”

Carl Dyer, National Head of Planning at Irwin Mitchell said; “This has been a three year process and although planning was finally granted in December 2015, we have been waiting to see if the Judicial Review would  delay things further. We are delighted to have now received the go-ahead on this development which will provide homes to help alleviate the housing shortage in this area and provide Lewes with much needed flood defences. We are delighted to have been able to help Santon make this valuable contribution to the Governments over- optimistic target of building 200,00 homes a year in the UK.”

Construction company fined after service riser shaft fall

Roger Bisby
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Construction company fined after service riser shaft fall

A construction company in Gateshead has been fined after a worker suffered injury when he fell down a service riser shaft.

Newcastle upon Tyne Magistrates’ Court heard how Meldrum Construction Services Limited (MCS) was the principal contractor for refurbishment work at premises in Percy Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

MCS failed to plan for the requirement for temporary platforms to be installed in the service riser to provide a safe work area. Subsequently, temporary floors were installed to specifications they had not been designed for. A worker stepped onto the temporary wooden floor on the first floor riser which collapsed and he fell 4.5 metres to the floor below, spraining both ankles.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident which occurred on 6 July 2015 found that MCS failed to plan and manage the construction phase of the project in that they failed to plan and manage the temporary works within the service riser.

Meldrum Construction Services Limited of Panteon Building, Lancaster Road, Dunston, Gateshead, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 13(1) of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, and was fined £120,000 and ordered to pay costs of £1969.

Developer chooses Mumford & Wood for personal development in Poole

Roger Bisby
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Developer chooses Mumford & Wood for personal development in Poole

Timber Conservation windows and doors by Mumford & Wood have been specified by a building developer for his own residential property in Poole, Dorset.  This large coastal town, once a maritime trade hub, has attracted tourists and visitors to its beaches and landscapes for many decades and is an established area of beauty.

The 1950s cottage-style property was purchased by the couple in the knowledge that only minor remedial work would be required but some months later it has been completely remodelled and is an example of experienced and sympathetic design and workmanship.  The original footprint, now 2,500 sq ft, has been extended, floors have been taken up and re-laid, walls repositioned and rooms refigured. Under floor heating has been installed throughout and wall insulation removed and replaced.

“We hadn’t intended taking on such an involved and intricate project but once we moved in we enjoyed the cottage so much that we decided to do a thorough job, remodel and upgrade the space completely,” says Roger Ward, Roger Ward Building & Design.  “We’ve practically rebuilt the cottage and it has been a pleasure to watch its transformation; we just love the house and its grounds.  As a working model there are things we’ve done here that I will propose to my clients in their projects such as the staircase, kitchen and bathroom designs which are my own.”

“We’ve practically rebuilt the cottage and it has been a pleasure to watch its transformation; we just love the house and its grounds.  As a working model there are things we’ve done here that I will propose to my clients in their projects such as the staircase, kitchen and bathroom designs which are my own.”

Roger Ward comments that the original property was cold and draughty and they were pleased to replace ill-fitting, single glazed Crittall windows with timber windows and doors from Mumford & Wood’s established Conservation range.  “We love the windows and especially the French doorsets with fixed glazed side panels that are a major feature of the rear elevation and allow maximum light and visual access to the beautiful terraced gardens.  A first floor bedroom has an attractive Juliet balcony feature from where we can stand and admire.  As soon as the windows and doors were replaced we could immediately feel the benefit in comfort and when we’ve had our first winter here I’m sure our energy bills will be greatly reduced.”  The sloping feature of the plot and its substantial gradients is home to over 80 protected trees and Roger and Jan Ward worked closely with local planners to ensure limited impact.

The flush faced Conservation casement window is available in a range of styles with a choice of frame profiles and glazing bars to coordinate with other products in the range.  These double glazed windows and doors are made to the standards of the British Woodworking Federation’s Wood Window Alliance (WWA) scheme and are BRE A+ rated. They are manufactured from premium grade Siberian Larch which is engineered for maximum strength and stability to help ensure long lasting aesthetics and performance, while achieving a perfect factory-finished, paint-ready surface typical of fine joinery.

Independent research carried out by the WWA on behalf of its members identifies that timber as a frame material offers the most sustainable and cost effective material with a life cycle of up to 65 years and more.

www.mumfordwood.com

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