A sustainable procurement strategy reaches every corner of your supply chain, from sourcing and suppliers to materials and workers. Some examples of sustainable procurement include:
• purchasing electricity from renewable sources
• using energy e icient technologies such as LED lighting
• changing fleet vehicles to ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV) or electric vehicles (EV)
• using low carbon construction materials
As sustainability continues to grow in significance on the global agenda, it’s imperative to align your procurement strategy with the evolving values of stakeholders, customers, and employees.
Learn how building sustainability into procurement can help you achieve net zero: crowncommercial.gov.uk/procurement-essentials-cnz
As a facility manager, you are responsible for ensuring that your building or property is always in excellent condition. One of the most important tasks in maintaining a facility is drain maintenance. It’s essential to have a comprehensive drain maintenance plan to ensure that your property’s drainage system is always functioning correctly. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of pre-planned drain maintenance and why it’s essential for FM managers.
What is pre-planned drain maintenance?
Pre-planned drain maintenance is a proactive approach to maintaining your building’s drainage system. It involves scheduling regular drain cleaning and inspections to prevent blockages, leaks, and other issues. A pre-planned maintenance schedule can help you identify potential problems before they become major issues, saving you time and money in the long run.
Benefits of pre-planned drain maintenance:
1. Avoid costly repairs
Pre-planned drain maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs by identifying potential problems early. For example, a drain that is slowly draining water may indicate a clog that could lead to a backup or overflow. By addressing the problem early, you can avoid costly repairs and potential damage to your property.
2. Increase the lifespan of your drainage system
By keeping your drainage system clean and free of debris, you can increase its lifespan. Regular maintenance can help prevent corrosion and other damage that can shorten the lifespan of your pipes and other drainage components.
3. Reduce the risk of health hazards
Clogged or damaged drains can lead to unpleasant odours and the growth of bad bacteria, which can pose health risks to those using the property. Unattended leaks can also lead to damp in the property walls, keeping the drains clean and free flowing can help prevent this.
4. Improve regulatory compliance
Many industries, such as food service, healthcare
and hospitals, have regulations that require drain maintenance to prevent the spread of disease and ensure public health. Planned maintenance can help keep on top of your regulatory requirements and ensure nothing slips through the net.
At Metro Rod, we believe that prevention is better than cure. By implementing a regular drain maintenance plan, conducted at a time that suits you we can help prevent disruption and save you money. When discussing a plan, we’ll review your site and its requirements to put a tailored plan in place, and with a network of over 500 highly trained pump and drainage engineers you can trust us to provide a reliable, professional service.
To find out more about implementing a pre-planned maintenance plan, please visit: www.metrorod.co.uk
We’re uniquely positioned to suppor t construction and FM companies nationwide
As the UK’s leading provider of specialist services to the construction and FM sectors, PTSG’s engineers enjoy views from some of the nation’s finest buildings as they go about their work in five independent divisions.
This ‘view from the top’ was a project at Celtic Park, home to Glasgow Celtic, where our Building Access Specialists carried out structural inspections and painted the steel support purlins to the underside of the East stand.
First Mats, the leading floor matting specialist based in Birmingham, UK, is thrilled to announce the expansion of their Swimming Pool Matting range. The new additions offer customers an even more diverse and complete selection of products to their already popular range, with a greater choice of colours, sizes, and custom length options. All mats in the range are made from high-quality, corrosionresistant PVC, ensuring a long lifespan and making them perfect for commercial use in hotels, leisure centres, and other hospitality venues.
The mats are available in rolls up to 10 metres long and
in various widths from 50cm to 122cm. Custom lengths can be ordered in pieces from as little as 50cm, and an interlocking tile product is also available for the ultimate flexibility.
First Mats have also invested a huge amount of time into improving the look and feel of its website, making it easier than ever for customers to find and choose the right product for their unique needs.
Swimming Pool Matting is a crucial safety feature for wet areas surrounding swimming pools, providing a nonslip surface to help prevent accidents and injuries. In addition to enhancing safety, the mats also offer a comfortable,
hygienic surface for barefoot traffic and are designed to allow for efficient water drainage.
“We are excited to offer our customers an even greater variety of choices when it comes to our Swimming Pool Matting range,” said Richard O’Connor, Marketing Director at First Mats. “Our team has carefully selected products that meet the highest quality standards and are suitable for commercial use, ensuring that our customers can find the perfect solution for their needs while maintaining safety and compliance.”
Customers can easily order their new Swimming Pool Matting from the First Mats website – www.firstmats.co.uk or by contacting the award-nominated sales and support team.
First Mats is a Birminghambased workplace products specialist dedicated to providing high-quality products and outstanding customer service. With years of experience in the industry, First Mats offers a comprehensive range of products, including Swimming Pool Matting, IBC Bunds, safety matting, and a wide variety of workplace essentials. The company is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance for businesses across the UK.
For more information, please visit www.firstmats.co.uk or contact the sales and support team at info@firstmats.co.uk or by phone at 0121 702 1659.
Tom attended a blind customer’s house where he found the customer’s dog had passed away. The customer was completely unaware. Tom worked tirelessly to complete the job and then respectfully informed the customer, and provided comfort until his carer arrived.
Drainage, sewage pump, tanker and plumbing solutions. Find out more: www.metrorod.co.uk
Most people would run away, we’re not most people.
A historic brewery is reaping the benefits of remote fire panel monitoring, following a complete system upgrade to Advanced panels.
TEE Fire Safety Solutions were tasked with designing and installing a complete upgrade of Heineken Ireland’s existing fire protection system, which had come to end of life and spare parts were becoming difficult to purchase.
Established in 1856 as Lady’s Well Brewery, the business moved into the New Malt House in Leitrim Street, Cork City in 1889 where it is still headquartered today. It was purchased by Heineken in the 1980s and continues to produce Heineken, Murphy’s Irish Stout and other Heineken products for the Irish market.
Seven MxPro 5 panels were installed alongside 1,055 devices, including cuttingedge Hochiki Ekho wireless detectors throughout the Brewery, covering areas which were built in the 1800s.
MxPro 5’s open-protocol nature made it possible for production areas to be fitted with flame detectors and ATEX equipment, while Patol linear heat detection was installed in wash down areas. The system also includes Wagner air sampling equipment with the use of a steam catch.
Selected for its exceptional performance, quality and ease
of use, the site also benefits from MxPro 5’s powerful false alarm management and reduction capabilities using the in-built AlarmCalm software.
The new panels are monitored remotely using AdvancedLive, alerting maintenance employees to potential fire events via instant text notification and giving them the option to silence false alarms when off site.
Enda Buckley, Commissioning Engineer at TEE Fire Safety Solutions, said: “I’m delighted to have installed a system that meets the modern day needs of this historic brewery. Advanced is our preferred fire protection manufacturer, because quite simply, the panels are bulletproof. Not only are they the easiest I’ve ever installed, but they also come with excellent technical support.”
Advanced Sales Manager for Ireland, Neil Parkin, said: “Heineken Cork is a great example of a business seeing real benefits from remote panel monitoring. Not only have false alarms been reduced thanks to a system upgrade, when they do occur, they can now be dealt with quickly and with minimal disruption, without the expense of keeping a trained individual on site at all times.”
Available on a subscription basis to Advanced panel
users in the UK and Ireland, AdvancedLive provides users with day-to-day reassurance that their fire system is working as intended, with instant notifications to alert them of critical incidents and status changes, and flexible secure access methods to keep their data safe.
The platform can be accessed from any internet-enabled device, anywhere in the world, giving users reassurance that they will be the first to know about any problems – no matter where they are. Text alerts notify users of fire events as they occur – and as they evolve – allowing for safer, informed decision-making to maximise safety, minimise disruption and ensure the fastest possible response time.
As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multisite networks. The Advanced portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction systems as well as emergency lighting. www.advancedco.com
EcoPure Waters, a leading provider of sustainable and eco-friendly bottled water solutions, is thrilled to announce its new partnership with the prestigious Sheraton Heathrow Hotel, a Marriott hotel located in the heart of London’s bustling Heathrow airport.
As part of the partnership, Sheraton Heathrow Hotel has been supplied with an EcoPure Quattro Filler that is being used for housekeeping, two EcoPure Blu Glass systems that are being used in the hotel’s VIP lounge and to supply conferences and events, and a range of 750ml custombranded reusable glass bottles.
“We are excited to partner with Sheraton Heathrow Hotel and provide them with our innovative and sustainable water solutions”, said Paul Proctor, Managing Director at EcoPure Waters. “As a company committed to environmental sustainability, we are proud to work with Sheraton Heathrow Hotel to help them reduce their carbon footprint and provide their guests with high-quality, eco-friendly products”.
“We are delighted to expand our partnership with Marriott hotels and provide our sustainable water solutions to another one of their properties”, said Simon Chapman, Business Manager at EcoPure Waters. “Our aim is to become the go-to supplier for luxury,
eco-friendly water provision solutions for Marriott hotels and all other acclaimed hotel brands in the UK and beyond. It’s an ambitious goal, but we are making steady progress towards achieving it”.
This marks EcoPure Waters’ second partnership with a Marriott hotel in Heathrow and its third partnership with a Marriott hotel in London. EcoPure Waters is eager to continue working with Marriott hotels while further expanding its reach to other top hotel chains like IHG, Hilton Hotels, and Accor.
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is growing. EcoPure Waters is committed to meeting these demands and providing high-quality, ecofriendly water solutions that are both sustainable and affordable.
Sheraton Heathrow Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the
heart of London’s bustling Heathrow airport. With its prime location, Sheraton Heathrow Hotel provides easy access to the airport terminals and offers comfortable accommodations and top-notch amenities for business and leisure travellers alike. The hotel features a range of facilities, including an on-site restaurant and bar, a fitness centre, and meeting and event spaces. To find out more about Sheraton Heathrow Hotel, please visit www. sheratonheathrowhotel.com
EcoPure Waters has been manufacturing, supplying, and maintaining market-leading water purification systems and custom-branded glass bottles for over 30 years, helping over 700 clients worldwide reduce their environmental impact, save money, and create powerful branding opportunities. To find out more about EcoPure Waters, please visit www.ecopurewaters.com.
Leading national framework provider Pagabo has opened bidding for its brand-new Mechanical & Electrical Solutions Framework, valued at £545 million.
A range of specialist M&E subcontractors will be appointed to the new framework, which will run for four years and has been designed as a solutions-based offering to complement Pagabo’s wider suite of frameworks.
The framework will be available nationally and be split into a number of UK regions. It will be open for all types of public sector organisations to procure through, including but not limited to, local authorities, blue light services, housing associations, healthcare, education, aviation, rail, nuclear, highways and infrastructure.
The framework will be split into three lots and be open to a full range of suppliers.
• Lot 1 - Mechanical
• Lot 2 - Electrical
• Lot 3 - Mechanical and electrical
Each lot contains four valuebanded sub lots, allowing organisations to tender for projects on varying scales.
• £50,000 to £500,000
• £500,000 to £1m
• £1m to £3m
• £3m and above
Jonathan Parker, head of construction at Pagabo, said: “Framework users will be able to appoint suppliers via direct award or further competition,
making sure they are able to procure exactly what they need, how they need and when they need. As with all of our frameworks, there are a number of places reserved for SMEs, which when combined with the regional breakdown ensures fair access for organisations of any size, provides excellent choice for clients and makes sure that the maximum positive social value for communities can be achieved.
“Since we announced this framework, we’ve been really pleased with the interest from across the market. This was particularly prevalent during the engagement period, allowing us to shape the framework in the best way to meet the requirements of the market. We’re now pleased to be opening bids and look forward to seeing tenders submitted from suppliers across the market.”
Cumbria, Northumberland, and Tyne and Wear NHS (CNTW) will be the contracting authority for the new agreement, having also held the same role for Pagabo’s Major Works and Developer-Led frameworks.
Suppliers are able to submit their tenders via the procurement portal here until 16 May 2023, with notifications of success expected late June 2023.
Pagabo provides a suite of frameworks that enable public sector organisations to procure the goods and services they need. Established in 2013, the company provides UK and EU procurement law compliant framework agreements, a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) and bespoke consultancy.
For more information, please visit www.pagabo.co.uk
Watco and Tor Coatings have joined forces to offer a wider choice of high-quality coatings for every surface of a building, which is something that isn’t available anywhere else on the market.
Combined the specialists have almost 150 years of experience and can offer a wider range of products and solutions rooted in technical expertise to help facilities managers ensure the smooth running of fast-paced operations.
As part of the partnership, site surveys will be offered before, during and after the project. In addition, annual site surveys will allow regular inspection of projects that have been completed as well as surfaces in nearby areas. The dedicated technical team will then provide a report of required maintenance work and will work with professional contractors as needed, to ensure repairs and surface defects are fixed – allowing warranties to be extended for ongoing protection.
Commenting on the partnership’s origin, Chris Budd, Sales Director at Watco shared: “We realised that by joining forces, we could offer customers the technical expertise and solutions they would need for an entire building and all of its surfaces, as well as enhanced warranties for larger projects.”
He continued: “On top of this, our customers can now speak
to just one member of the joint team for advice. This will be of huge benefit to busy facilities and premises managers because by using one contact and one supplier for the needs of the entire building envelope, they can enjoy a more streamlined process, as well as extended warranties on the products specified for a job.”
Together, Watco and Tor Coatings will be able to offer technical support to each customer, take the time to understand the project and recommend exactly which solution should be selected, while remaining on hand during and after every application. The joint offering includes coating and solutions for floors, roofs, walls, balconies and more.
Ian Birch, Commercial Director at Tor Coatings added:
“We hope that by offering our wider range of solutions, and increased contact with regular site visits, we will be able to make recommendations which will ensure the longevity of coatings across all surfaces, prevent further damages, and save our customers money in the long-term. This means that our customers will sleep at night with the peace of mind that their facility, and their finances, are safe – with no nasty surprises –and will be for years to come.”
For more information about the partnership and how it could help you, visit: www.watco.co.uk/ yourbuildingcovered
The Public Sector Sustainability Association (PSSA) provides a professional association and network for all those working in the Public Sector who have a common interest in sustainability. The aim of the association is to bring together a wide group of people working across all areas of the Public Sector – to help educate, train, support and connect as we work towards a more sustainable future.
Benefits of membership
• Access to up to date info on all issues of sustainability affecting the public sector including the latest news, case studies, legislation, policy and reports
• Reminders and invitation to trade events, exhibitions, conferences and seminars involving sustainability
• Networking opportunities
• Discounted training and education courses
• Access to a PSSA Members-Only online forum to discuss issues, problem solve and connect (Launch date TBC)
For more information on becoming a member of the PSSA, please visit www.pssa.info.
The universal and professional range of products
Care+Protect cares and maintains the home and its appliances with one product helping to reduce energy consumption by up to 15%.
Care+Protect was recently acquired by Haier Europe (a branch of Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd) and is a sub-brand of the group alongside leading brands Hoover, Candy and Haier.
The Care+Protect range of products spans all areas of the home from cooking to vacuuming, laundry, coffeemaking and ironing. All have the same mission – to care,maintain and protect the home and household appliances.
One such product that can help reduce energy consumption by up to 15% is the Care+Protect 3-in-1 Washing machine/Dishwasher
Limescale remover, degreaser and hygienic cleaner. It cleverly combines descaling, degreasing and hygienic cleaning into a single product to remove limescale build-up, odours and mould. Using this product can help extend the life of the appliance and reduce the number of breakdowns. Since launching, it has received 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 2,000 genuine reviews on Amazon.
The expertise of the Care+Protect team continues in its laundry range. Thanks to a special formulation,
Care+Protect’s 100% Pure Essence
Concentrated Laundry
Perfume keeps clothes fragrant for up to five weeks. It’s suitable on all fabrics, colours and washing programmes.
Other popular products in the extensive range include a Universal Descaler for Coffee Machines and Kettles. This product removes limescale, as well as coffee and tea residues to ensure you can enjoy your favourite cuppa at its best. The range also has a liquid descaler for irons that removes limescale and increases the performance of your iron.
Announcing the range and its ability to reduce energy consumption, Justin Shaw, Consumable Category Manager at Care+Protect said, “Extending the life of a home appliance is a very important topic in homes right now. We are proud to be able to offer a range of products that can help extend the life of appliances and also help to reduce energy consumption.”
Mr Shaw highlighted that this range of products resulted from extensive research conducted by the Candy Hoover Group S.r.l. and Haier. He added, “The research and extensive
testing that we carried out has enabled us to provide this range of products that are professional cleaning products that increase an appliance’s effectiveness and energy efficiency over time. They are universal and can be used on all major home appliance brands. They also come recommended by leading home appliance manufacturers.”
The Haier Group was first established in 1984 and is the number one brand globally in major appliances for 14 consecutive years1. Mr Shaw added, “Care+Protect benefits from such a depth of knowledge and experience that exists within the company. As a company, we are committed to working to continuously build products that offer high value to the consumer.”
The Care+Protect range can be bought directly from the website and on Amazon, Ocado, Hoover Spares and Candy Spares. www.haier-europe.com
1 Source: Euromonitor International Limited; Consumer Appliances 2023.
Professional cleaning brand Care+Protect offers products that help extend the life of home appliances and reduce energy consumption
Connect face-to-face with the entire facilities management supply chain and network with global FM leaders and suppliers. Discover the latest innovations in smart buildings, ESG, legislation and more.
networking
Visitor Services Manager, City of London
Fuelling FM leaders to shape a smarter, faster, more agile and sustainable future of the workplace.
The
opportunities are great…I have been amazed by the amount of technology and modernisation, there’s always so much to do and see.
habits, expectations, and standards, such as:
• 76% of people have had poor experiences with hand hygiene in public washrooms since the start of the pandemic.
• Almost half (46%) of respondents wash their hands more frequently than before the pandemic because they pay more attention to hygiene overall.
Kimberly-Clark Professional™ in the UK. “As higher expectations of cleanliness become a lasting benchmark, we want to be a trusted provider of game-changing solutions for hygiene and safety for our users and choosers.”
Kimberly-Clark Professional™ launched its ICON™ dispenser collection in the UK in March 2023. This innovative washroom solution will bring gamechanging hygiene and design, combined with a new standard of dispensing performance and human-centric experience. The ICON™ portfolio showcases three system solutions for hand towels, toilet tissue and skincare, including soap and sanitiser.
COVID-19
To gain a better understanding of how people’s attitudes towards hygiene and handwashing have shifted in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Kimberly-Clark Professional commissioned a survey conducted by GfK in Europe. The survey revealed perceptions of cleanliness alongside evolving hygiene
• 42% have experienced empty or improperly functioning paper towel dispensers, leading to frequent complaints.
In the wake of COVID-19, the survey results underline that now more than ever, washroom users need reassurance that their hygiene, safety, and health are a top priority once they set foot in the washroom.
While most dispensers are designed around paper, the Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ collection is designed around the servicer, facility manager, and end-user –offering style, simplicity, cutting-edge technology, and a human-centric experience.
“Backed by teams of hygiene and innovation experts, the launch of the Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ dispenser demonstrates our commitment to delivering unmatchable confidence in the washroom,” said Craig Bowman, General Manager at
The Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ collection features a highperforming and touchless dispensing system, with a seamless design and hidden towel mode that minimises contact points for a more hygienic experience and reduces the potential risks of cross-contamination. With dual sensor technology that recognises partially torn sheets and presents a new sheet before dispenser issues occur, the KimberlyClark Professional™ ICON™ collection provides reliable and hygienic dispensing by ensuring paper towels are always available for end-users.
Among the many guidelines and hygiene expectations that companies have adopted recently, budget is a key issue. The Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ collection is the most significant upgrade in technological advancements in dispensing in over a decade and is fully
equipped to support facilities and cleaning staff to improve maintenance efficiency with:
• Easy-to-read intuitive control panel, which means less training is required to operate the dispensers.
• Easily visible lighting and servicing cues that indicate when products need replenishment, reducing guesswork on servicing needs.
• Direct Drive Technology, which provides the benefits of efficiency, better battery life and less noise - the quietest electronic dispenser on the market.
• The hand towel rolls have a plastic-free core plug to allow full recycling in a single waste stream.
• Minimal maintenance with 99.9% jam-free performance, and a single set of batteries that deliver up to 150,000 dispenses.
• It is simple to access and features a smooth, controlled opening and closing experience.
The act of handwashing goes beyond science. More than just a simple paper towel dispenser, the Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ collection features designer faceplates that add style to hygiene. By incorporating visually appealing interior design elements, the range of colours
and faceplates are designed to complement every environment to elevate the washroom experience. Designs include warm marble, cherry blossom, and ebony woodgrain, as well as black, silver and white mosaic. In addition, customised faceplates can be implemented for branding and advertising.
“This launch combines over 150 years of hygiene innovation with modern design to create a new product that looks as great as it works and elevates any space. It also highlights Kimberly-Clark Professional’s commitment to being a global leading provider of hygiene, safety, and productivity solutions,” said Bowman.
For additional information visit Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™.
Rubbermaid Commercial Products LLC (RCP) has announced the release of a new insights report: Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability. The global initiative underscores the brand’s commitment to taking concrete actions following the publication of its sustainability vision and roadmap, The Love Sustainability Journey.
Part of Newell Brands global portfolio of brands, RCP is an international leader in the design, manufacture and delivery of waste management, hygiene and cleaning products, meaning it has a significant role to play in helping to educate businesses while continuing to propel its own sustainability journey.
Supporting businesses in turning sustainability ideas into action, the Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability report helps to identify and overcome future challenges to implementation. Outlining areas where businesses can improve their operational and systemic sustainability it is designed to help navigate collective change. Whilst the effects of global warming have long been hitting the headlines, the number of devastating, large scale environmental incidents are only accelerating. From
record-breaking fires sweeping our most protectable climate change buffer, the Amazon rainforest, to the unprecedented flooding of Death Valley1, these climate crises must propel businesses across the globe to drive change. Both corporate stakeholders (95%)2 and consumers (52%)3 are calling for more action from businesses in relation to climate change. Now is the time to double down efforts in the implementation of more sustainable practices.
Highlighting the multiple challenges faced by businesses, the report provides data-driven recommendations to combat ‘green confusion’, reassess purchasing decisions and ultimately improve operational and systemic sustainability.
This drive for change sits against a backdrop of commercial considerations
1 RCP Better Sustainability Through Better Choices Report – 2023
2 RCP Research – Question 8
3 Kantar Global Download on Sustainability (August 2022)
and in the face of inflation, which was cited by 80%4 of businesses as their most significant challenge in the coming years.
Whilst findings from the report show that the number one issue5 cited as a barrier by businesses is a lack of sustainable products, Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability dispels the myth that recycled materials are the only route to ‘greener practices’. It argues that low frequency sustainability - making significant strides in the reduction of consumption - is far more effective than an increase in so-called ‘green purchasing’ for both the planet and business’ budgets.
For 60% of businesses the perceived investment and increase in ongoing costs for more sustainable practices is considered a barrier to implementation. The report
4 RCP Research – Question 6
5 RCP Research – Question 15
reveals that by extending the life cycle of passive products, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact by up to 72% and their costs by up to a third6 This subsequent reallocation of resource and investment will allow organisations to invest in innovation, improving their overall sustainability.
“We know that a staggering 95% of decision makers7 want to do more on sustainability but face various challenges to implementation. RCP is dedicated to being part of a concerted sustainability effort across the business world not just through its products, but through vital education and
6 The Benefits of Extending Passive Product Lifespans
7 RCP Research – Question 8
sustainability tools. The brand has already made progress when it comes to changing attitudes surrounding efficacy and cost of sustainable products but there is still work to be done,’’ explained Emilio Capelli, VP Sales & Marketing International for Commercial at Newell Brands.
RCP announced its Love Sustainability Journey last year to start open, transparent conversations surrounding its own sustainability practices. The brand set clear targets and created a set of initiatives that cover areas of the business where it can make initial gains. With 85% of businesses ranking product longevity8 as the most important of those initiatives, it’s clear why a laser sharp
8 RCP Research – Question 17
focus on durability is central to all RCP products across waste and recycling, cleaning and hygiene categories. Supported by industry leading warranties and clear accreditation, the brand creates products that lift the sustainability of every partner it works with.
Capelli continued: ‘’At Newell Brands and RCP, we believe that when businesses raise the tide of sustainability, we are all elevated by it. Let’s do this together.’’
The Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability report is ready for download here. Read more about the brand’s Love Sustainability Journey here.
Contact us for a FREE site survey or online demo to learn more about our industry leading environmental monitoring solutions and how they can help to reduce your energy costs. Scalable, with Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, over 20 sensor options for temperature, humidity, water leakage, airflow, AC and DC power, a 5 year warranty and automated email and SMS text alerts.
Leicestershire-based B-Sure Installations, a leading UK installation company, has invested over £70k to launch a new waste management company, B-Sure Recycling. The new enterprise, helps customers reach mounting waste management targets by providing a complete collection and recycling service of all types of business waste.
“How we manage waste is a huge environmental and business concern for everyone across all sectors from schools, manufacturing and industrial, to retail and healthcare. Reaching recycling targets through circular economy solutions are a significant part of environmental goals for companies today,” explains Ross Chambers, Managing Director, B-Sure Installations. “We have invested in the technology and equipment to provide a full waste recycling service, enabling customers to achieve key environmental and business goals.”
All types of waste items can be recycled at the B-Sure recycling site where the company has installed two compactors and a high-tech granulator.
B-Sure Recycling provides the complete management of the waste recycling process. Customers are provided with
bins and cages to collect waste at their sites. When these are full customers can either book a collection using an on line portal or arrange for a regular collection to be made by the B-Sure recycling team.
Once collected then the waste transported back to B-Sure Recycling facilities. Metal waste is collated, woodbased waste is broken down and separated and plastic waste is granulated and bagged. The recycled materials are then provided to B-Sure partners who create it into new products such as mats, play areas, PVC windows, toys and many more new products. Some items such as office furniture, if they are in good condition, are refurbished or resized so that they can be reused, placing them back into the circular economy.
B-Sure experts can provide an outline of the recycling process end to end, and businesses who want to book the recycling service can do so via an online system. The B-Sure team take care of the whole process enabling
customers to focus on their own business, whilst ensuring their waste management targets are being met.
“We can now offer a complete circular economy recycling solution for all of our customers to reach their waste management targets.” adds Ross Chambers. “B-Sure Recycling can enable customers to complete its waste circle, saving them money, time and inconvenience within the manufacturing process and supporting the much needed expansion of the business waste recycling infrastructure across the country.”
https://bsureinstallations.com/
Caerphilly Council is exploring ways to boost recycling rates and create a greener county borough for all as part of an ambitious waste and recycling strategy for the future.
Local authorities are required to meet strict Welsh Government recycling targets and Caerphilly is working hard to ensure it reaches the current target of 70%, as well as even higher rates announced for the coming years.
Leader of council, Cllr. Sean Morgan said, “We need to be bold and ambitious in our revised approach to improve current recycling performance as we are not meeting the 70% rate. The world is facing a global climate crisis so we all need to do more to lead cleaner, greener lifestyles and it is clear that recycling is a key element in this collective effort. We have a moral obligation to our children and grandchildren to do what is necessary so that future generations can enjoy a sustainable planet.”
He continued, “I appreciate that many residents are already working with us every week to recycle as much as possible, but more needs to be done, it is not an option for us to do nothing. We need to target those who are not currently recycling via engagement, education and enforcement where appropriate, as well as looking at our operational processes. A new strategy is currently being prepared which will clearly set out our plans for the coming years
and I would urge the whole community to work with us to get our recycling levels to where they need to be,”
A special committee meeting took place where councillors discussed the draft strategy entitled ‘to 70% and Beyond 2023 – 2028’.
The draft document focuses on 3 key outcomes:
• Ensure residents use the correct recycling receptacles. Too much food and other recyclable material is being placed in general waste bins.
• Ensure the material collected is of a higher quality and a valuable resource.
• Improving the performance, facilities and overall resident experience at our household waste recycling centres (HWRCs).
The draft strategy is written against the context of ongoing conversations the council has held with residents through its engagement programme ‘The Caerphilly Conversation’ where 93% of respondents agreed that waste collection and recycling services should continue to be a priority when planning council services and budgets for 2022/23 and beyond.
Cllr. Chris Morgan, Cabinet Member for Waste, Leisure and Green Spaces, said, “I am proud of the way our residents embraced recycling over the past 20 years and at one time we were one of the best, and our method of
collection remains popular compared to other authorities. We can be the best again, the changes proposed to our residual collections will increase recycling and remove the threat of having to change from our current comingled collection system.”
“We have challenging national recycling targets set by Welsh Government, and the wider climate change and decarbonisation agendas, set by both UK and Welsh Governments. Furthermore, as a council we have declared our own climate emergency.”
He continued, “The proposals in the draft strategy are designed to increase participation by changing service operations. We want to work proactively with residents to ensure we are doing all that we can to reduce, reuse, repair and recycle in an effort to protect our environment now and in the future.”
Over the coming weeks Cabinet will be asked to agree on the 5th of April to go out to public consultation. If agreed, the consultation will begin on 6th April 2023 until 19th May 2023. The consultation will be published on the council’s website in addition to printed copies in all libraries across the county borough and a series of informal faceto-face drop-in sessions.
https://caerphilly.gov.uk/
Harper Adams University, a leading institution in sustainable agriculture and land management, has partnered with FireMate to implement the Nimbus solution for fire system monitoring and maintenance across its Shropshire campus. The project, which began in September 2021, aims to enhance the safety of the university’s students, staff, and facilities.
Founded in 1901, Harper Adams University is located near Birmingham in Shropshire. The campus boasts a mix of historic and modern buildings, including learning facilities, meeting rooms, and offices. Residential properties are planned to follow the implementation of the Nimbus solution. The university’s Estates Maintenance Services team sought to improve the campus’s fire safety by replacing an obsolete pager system and outdated equipment. They selected FireMate’s Nimbus solution and the completed network will include more than 50 Nimbus Fixed Gateways and two Control Room Monitoring systems, monitoring addressable panels from a variety of manufacturers.
“The adoption of FireMate’s Nimbus solution aligns with our vision to ensure the latest fire safety solutions are utilised across the university’s estate,” said Adam Gallagher, Assistant Manager of Estates Maintenance Services at Harper Adams University. “By removing outdated equipment and implementing a more advanced system, we are enhancing the safety of our campus for all who live, work,
and study here.
“The Nimbus solution’s realtime monitoring, data exchange capabilities, and seamless integration with our existing fire systems have greatly improved our ability to respond to potential fire hazards and faults. This partnership with FireMate will not only ensure a safer environment for our students, but also contribute to the longterm sustainability and resilience of our campus infrastructure.”
The Nimbus remote fire alarm management platform is designed to make life simpler and stress-free for fire installers, maintenance engineers and end users, while ensuring that all compliance obligations are met, replacing multiple channels, such as spreadsheets, whiteboards, calendars and job sheets etc., with a simple, automated solution. Nimbus can be installed alongside new systems, or retrofitted to existing ones.
The implementation of the Nimbus solution is ongoing, with plans to expand its use to new properties under construction and further residential properties in the future. Adam Gallagher went on to say that “The university is over the moon with the support provided by the team from FireMate and with the capabilities of the Nimbus platform. Nimbus has been set up to forward alerts and notifications directly to the university’s two-way voice and data communication system which provides on-site staff with immediate access to lifesaving fire protection information. We couldn’t ask for more!”
Peter Martin, UK Business Manager at FireMate, commented: “Harper Adams University’s commitment to safety and innovation made it a perfect fit for the Nimbus solution. A case in point is the unequivocal proof-of-testing records for Manual Call Points that are now available. This increased visibility and transparency of testing is fundamental to fire protection at the university. We’re proud to partner with an institution that shares our dedication to the well-being of people and the buildings they live and learn in.
“Nimbus’ state-of-the-art technology enables organisations like Harper Adams University to effectively manage and maintain their fire systems remotely, and our collaboration demonstrates our mutual commitment to fostering a safer and more sustainable future for all.”
FireMate exists to fulfil a pressing, and often legally mandated, requirement for enhanced asset management, monitoring and reporting in the fire sector. Developed by industry experts with a passion for effective fire safety, the company’s fire protection maintenance software and remote fire alarm management represent a seismic change in the approach taken by many fire maintenance service providers and their clients, giving them greater oversight, awareness and reassurance than ever before.
www.firemate.com
The Notts Golf Club now benefits from cutting edge fire protection thanks to the installation of more than 100 wireless fire devices from Hyfire’s worldleading Taurus range.
Better known as Hollinwell, the Nottinghamshire club has been located at its current site since 1901, playing host to tournaments including the John Player Classic and the Open Championship Final Qualifying.
“With a variety of different building types on site, including some dating back almost a century, this was a challenging install project mainly because of the age and traditional features of the buildings,” said Gavin Clarke, Head of Fire at PWP Fire & Security. “Working closely with the Hyfire team, we were able to specify a system that was installed in record time, with almost zero impact on the original staircases, ornate ceilings and cornices of the Hollinwell clubhouse.”
“The brief was to achieve a complete overhaul of the existing life-expired fire system with minimal disruption to site operations, staff and visitors. We achieved this and more, with an Advanced Go singleloop panel linked to wireless devices, specified using Hyfire’s TauREX software. These were pre-programmed offsite and installed in minutes, with around 90 percent less cabling than a traditional wired system.”
Hyfire offers the widest range of commercial standard wireless fire devices on the
market, ranging from optical, multi-criteria and heat detectors to EN54-23
Approved VAD’s, all fully certified to EN54. All products offer the highest performance and quality in the industry, and are also fully compliant with BS5839 Part 1. Fire panels are wired via a loop to translators, from which wireless devices can be used on their own to build fully wireless systems of virtually any size, or mixed with Hyfire wired products to provide seamless hybrid solutions, offering total flexibility to specifiers and installers.
Chris McGregor, Regional Sales Manager – East & Ireland for Hyfire, commented: “By selecting the Hyfire Taurus range, the team at PWP were able to offer a product that is every bit as good as a wired alternative, but with a multitude of built-in advantages. With fire installers under pressure to deliver systems more quickly and efficiently than ever before, wireless is rapidly becoming the default choice.”
Taurus features Pathfinder Technology, which allows the devices to communicate over 1km, point to point in open air, and further where expansion hops are used. Antenna technology has been optimised to allow communication across different frequencies and
environments, which means that Taurus can do the job with less equipment and less batteries, thus saving on costs.
David Holmes, General Manager at Hollinwell, said: “We wanted to make the replacement of the fire system as smooth as possible and ensure the new system would give us the flexibility to deliver our future refurbishment plans with the minimum amount of disruption. When PWP suggested a Hyfire wireless system, it soon became clear that it ticked all of the boxes and the installation experience lived up to expectations. So far, we have been very impressed with the performance and reliability of the system.”
Hyfire was launched in 2007, bringing to market some of the first commercial wireless detection and alarm devices fully certified to EN54. Since then, the Hyfire brand has become synonymous with quality, reliability and innovation in the commercial fire sector. https://hyfirewireless.com/
Leading financial and commercial solutions provider, SAF Solutions designed the bespoke procurement structure to support the procurement of a modular multi-service outpatient facility at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
A new state-of-theart, modular 3,450sqm outpatient facility has been completed at King’s College Hospital in London and opened to the public.
The facility is the UK’s largest modular off-site construction project within NHS healthcare to date and has been successfully procured via a bespoke, structured finance agreement.
King’s College Hospital serves more than 700,000 patients across four London boroughs and was facing severe capacity constraints due to a lack of available space and urgent upgrades required to its current facilities.
Procured via a tailored finance solution, specialist modular building provider Premier Modular handed over
the new outpatient consultation and procedure facility within nine months, with the modules being installed on-site on an existing car park at the hospital in just 23 days.
Jane Tabiner Managing Director at SAF Solutions: “This was a fantastic project to be involved in and SAF has played a pivotal role in helping make the UK’s largest modular off-site construction project within the NHS a reality. This is a fantastic achievement for both SAF Solutions and Premier Modular.
“Collaboration and partnership were central to the successful delivery of this project. We worked closely with the team at Kings College Hospital to understand the Trust’s financial needs and designed a bespoke solution that fits the bill. We’re proud of our work on this project and our part in further supporting the NHS and their patients.”
The large-scale facility has been built onto one of the Trust’s existing car park, assisting in reducing waiting times while improving the patient experience for urgent care services, all without disrupting the current day to day activity of the hospital. The use of existing hospital estate to house the facility also allows the trust to redevelop other areas of the site.
With a wealth of experience in developing bespoke funding solutions within healthcare and modular construction, SAF created a funding structure that was tailored to suit both the Trust’s significant investment and the construction agreements already in place with Premier Modular.
The finance solution can be adapted to align with the evolving needs of the Trust and its patients and also takes the initial building and development elements of the project into account, amalgamating costs into a single, monthly fee.
The new facility provides 48 purpose-designed consultation rooms and eight procedure rooms for a range of services, including dermatology, rheumatology, respiratory, neurosciences, pain management, and urology as well as other aspects of surgery and therapies.
Set to provide much-needed additional capacity for the Trust and its patients, this new facility is a fantastic example of the positive role finance solutions can play in supporting investment in brand-new, modular, industry-leading healthcare facilities whilst effectively utilising budgets available within an NHS Trust. https://saf-solutions.com/
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ASSA ABLOY is inviting architects, designers and specifiers to challenge them with their specification questions at Clerkenwell Design Week, where the company will be showcasing a wide range of solutions (stand E15; 23rd-25th May).
Visitors to the stand can send ASSA ABLOY their specification challenges in the run-up to the show – whether that be around sustainability, inclusive design, slamming doors or more. ASSA ABLOY’s expert team will then help solve each one.
The ASSA ABLOY stand will include an array of products from across the Group, including the Elmes collection of door hardware. Incorporating a variety of materials such as bronze, wood and chrome, the Japanese design-led range has been created to make an impact, and features in prestigious projects around the world.
Also on show will be the Pocket Door Pro from P C Henderson, a professional pocket door kit that enables doors to slide effortlessly into a cavity wall. Designed with a high-quality, aluminium cavity frame, the system is extremely robust, making
it ideal for a wide range of applications including homes, educational buildings, hospitals, hotels and office blocks.
Visitors to the stand will also be able to inspect the AURA® range from Lorient. This is made up of a selection of drop seals, perimeter seals, door bottom seals, threshold plates and ramps that provide outstanding protection for all four sides of a door against sound, smoke, light, draughts, and dust – all while seamlessly integrating into beautiful doorsets and floors through bespoke colour matches.
In addition, ASSA ABLOY will show a selection of door openings and access solutions for homes, businesses and institutions, including doors, door hardware, mechanical and smart locks and access control.
Peter Ashworth, Sales Director at ASSA ABLOY, comments: “We have great confidence in our design-led
products and expertise – and that’s why we’re asking visitors to Clerkenwell Design Week to bring their specification problems to us so that we can help solve them.
“Whether it’s stylish door hardware, intumescent seals or access control systems, we have the products to complement modern building designs and enhance an architect’s vision. We can’t wait to show these off at Clerkenwell Design Week.”
ASSA ABLOY will also be showcasing its unique project collaboration software Openings Studio™, which streamlines the specification process for doors and ironmongery and helps reduce costs, increase efficiency and enable collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.
Paul Thompson, BIM Manager at ASSA ABLOY, adds: “The Building Safety Act sets out a clear pathway
for how buildings should be constructed and maintained, and the drive to reduce cost must not compromise the safety performance of a building.
“Openings Studio™ enables the golden thread of information, putting safety at the heart of every stage of a project, providing gateway points at design, construction, completion and management phases. We welcome visitors to our stand at Clerkenwell Design Week to learn more about unlocking the BIM tools needed for more efficient planning, design and building processes.”
Get in touch with ASSA ABLOY regarding your specification questions by visiting www.assaabloy.com/ uk/en/solutions/ clerkenwell-design-week
To find out more about ASSA ABLOY and its range of products, please visit www.assaabloy.com/group/en
The Public Sector Sustainability Association (PSSA) provides a professional association and network for all those working in the Public Sector who have a common interest in sustainability. The aim of the association is to bring together a wide group of people working across all areas of the Public Sector – to help educate, train, support and connect as we work towards a more sustainable future.
Becoming a Corporate Member of the Public Sector Sustainability Association highlights your organisations commitment to sustainability and offers a unique platform to reach our membership of committed and influencial sustainability professionals in Government, Local Authorities, NHS, Education and Housing Associations. The PSSA offers two levels of Corporate Membership (Gold and Silver), both providing a fantastic opportunity to gain recogniton and exposure with our Public Sector membership.
• Comprehensive listing in Suppliers Directory
• Unlimited opportunity to supply press releases, articles & news to feature on PSSA website
• One release for inclusion in monthly Newsletter
• Opportunity to promote your own events/webinars/training courses to PSSA members
• Logo on PSSA homepage as ‘Gold/Silver Member’ of the PSSA
• Introductory email sent to our members as the latest Gold/Silver Member of the PSSA
• Logo - ‘Gold/Silver Member of the PSSA’ to use on your own websites/materials
Additional Gold Member benefits -
• Potential to conduct research/surveys through the PSSA (Gold Member ONLY)
• 2 x Advertising Banners to appear on the PSSA Newsletter (Gold Member ONLY)
• 3 x Full Page Advertisements within either Energy Manager magazine or Building & Facilities Management magazine (Gold Member ONLY)
• Opportunity to present at regular PSSA Webinars (Gold Member ONLY)
The rate for Gold Member status is £1,495+VAT per annum. The rate for Silver Member status is £895+VAT per annum.
Interested in becoming a Corporate Member of the PSSA?
Get in touch today - call us on 01933 316931 or email us at corporate@pssa.info
www.pssa.info
Public Sector Sustainability Association