BFM January 2023

At CCS, we offer 36 solutions to help you on your journey to net zero. Whether you are looking to procure low emission vehicles, greener energy solutions, low carbon material, or energy efficient cloud storage, we have a solution that will help you find your way in this often-complex space.

Our new and updated cityscape interactive guide is a one-stop shop for all of our solutions, designed to help you reduce your carbon footprint and navigate your way to net zero, whatever stage you are at.

Jangro marks milestone in Sorrento

Jangro, the largest network of independent janitorial and cleaning distributors in the UK and Ireland, officially marked its fortieth birthday in September, after the outbreak of covid halted celebrations in 2020.

Celebrating this huge achievement in style, Jangro hosted 160 members and suppliers in the beautiful resort of Sorrento, Italy for a very special annual conference and lots of fun! Experiences included excursions to Pompeii and Capri, as well as a spectacular celebratory dinner to mark the momentous occasion.

During the conference, founder and honorary lifetime president, Bryan Squires, was presented with a lifetime achievement award. Squires founded the Jangro concept in 1980, by drawing together five like-minded independent distributors. Today, Jangro is the largest network of independent janitorial distributors in the UK and Ireland, with 46 strategically located distributors that provide national coverage with a local, fast and reliable delivery service.

The five-day trip provided the perfect opportunity for Jangro to show their appreciation to all the suppliers and members with whom they have established relationships. As well as celebrating the network’s forty years of success in the cleaning and FM industry, the group discussed the future of Jangro and how they can continue to be a market leader providing

quality products, innovation and unrivalled service.

A raffle was also held during the week away, in which £5,043.48 was raised for The Trussell Trust, the charity that Jangro is supporting this year. This worthy charity supports a nationwide network of food banks to provide emergency food and care to people locked in poverty.

Joanne Gilliard, CEO at Jangro comments, ‘Jangro’s biggest strength is its people. Without our fabulous members and suppliers, we wouldn’t be able to provide the excellent customer offering that we are renowned for, so it was a real pleasure to whisk them away on an Italian adventure to say

thank you. We will continue to build on these relationships for greater success in the future. After all, in the words of Henry Ford, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”’ Jangro’s mission is to provide its customers with national coverage and a local, professional service, supply quality products, always lead on innovation, added value and environmental sustainability, whilst maintaining competitive pricing throughout.

For more information visit www.jangro.net or call 01204 795 955.

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.

For more information on joining, please visit www.pssa.info

TIME IS RUNNING OUT

On 23rd January 2023 the new fire safety regulations will take effect.

Compliance is mandatory – ARE YOU READY?

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 introduce new duties under the Fire Safety Order for building owners or managers (responsible persons).

EXPERT HELP FROM PTSG IS HERE PTSG Fire Solutions Ltd specialises in delivering passive fire safety solutions for residential and commercial buildings.

We are working with duty holders to ensure their buildings are fully compliant.

|

Mer plugs in Kings College London

One of the UK’s leading universities, Kings College is expanding and updating its electric vehicle (EV) charging network with help from Mer. EV charging specialist Mer won the contract put out to tender by King’s, to grow and modernise its network of EV chargers across multiple sites. This included replacing older charging points with smart chargers, adding provision in new locations, networking all the chargers and providing a back-office system for monitoring and reporting.

Alexandra Hepple, sustainability officer at King’s College London said: “We have our own growing EV fleet and increasingly our contractors also use electric vehicles, leading to higher demand for charging. Mer has done a fantastic job of creating a charging network that suits our needs today and also enables us to expand in years to come.”

Mer carried out extensive site

surveys across the King’s estate to identify utilisation rates of existing chargers. Mer’s team also pinpointed the optimal locations for additional charge points such as the new sports centre at Honour Oak Park in South London. In total Mer installed 15 AC charge points across eight sites – a mixture of 7kW and 22kW fast chargers.

Stevie Jones, associate consultant for fleet and workplace charging at Mer said: “King’s was an early adopter of EV charging, but those older chargers were very limited in terms of the information they could provide.

“We swapped out this older infrastructure for smart chargers that can be networked and easily managed via our Mer Connect platform. This gives the sustainability team full visibility of who is using the chargers and when, as well as providing data on the carbon saved compared to using diesel vehicles.”

The Mer Connect portal enables clients to manage individual or multiple sites, providing real time information on carbon savings, charger status and energy usage. It also allows site managers to set multiple tariffs for different use cases – for example, free charging for fleet vehicles, subsidised charging for employees, and a higher rate for visitors. Drivers can access the charge points via the Mer Connect app.

“Our evidence-based approach enables clients like King’s College London to make informed decisions about when and where to locate EV charge points,” added Stevie. “By taking the time to fully understand each client’s needs, we ensure they get the right infrastructure today and the flexibility to scale up in the future.”

For more information on Mer’s fleet solutions visit uk.mer.eco/ev-fleet-charging

WHEN

...RELY ON POWERSTAR

Build resilience, sustainability, and affordability into your power with groundbreaking hardware, software, and control systems from Powerstar. Our range of products includes transformers, voltage optimisation, and a unique solution for UPS using battery energy storage technology, all manufactured and supported in the UK. Our solutions intelligently manage customers’ power flows to make power greener, cheaper, and more secure, come rain or shine.

Find out more at powerstar.com

SBFM lands place on Maersk multiservice framework

SBFM, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading and fastest growing soft FM service providers, has been awarded a contract by Maersk which will see them deliver cleaning, catering and security services for the integrated logistics company’s expanding inventory of warehouses.

The new framework agreement will initially see SBFM provide soft services for Maersk’s new distribution centres in Tamworth, Kettering and its newly built facility in Doncaster.

Maersk’s Doncaster facility is one the largest in the UK with more than 600,000 square feet of total space, 60 dock levellers, 20 metres of internal clearance height as well as several hundred parking spaces.

Working in partnership with Maersk, SBFM will support the integrated logistics provider’s expansion plans by delivering services for a growing portfolio of sites, with Maersk due to open a network of new facilities across the UK and Ireland.

SBFM won the contract following a competitive tender process because of its service solution based on a market leading technology suite and data driven solutions. The technology-led approach will drive service improvements, increase transparency, and support Maersk in their growth.

A.P. Moller - Maersk is an integrated logistics company working to connect and simplify its customers’ supply chains. As a global leader in shipping services, the company operates in more than 130 countries and employs over 100,000 people worldwide.

Steve Wengrow, Group Operations Director at SBFM,

said: “We are delighted that Maersk has chosen us as their soft facilities management partner. It is great to see that our expertise and experience as providers of commercial cleaning and soft FM services for the logistics and distribution industry has been reflected in the awarding of this contract for one of the foremost global providers.

“With this landmark partnership we are further strengthening our position as

market leaders in logistics. Our people are already working tirelessly to transform Maersk’s Tamworth, Kettering and Doncaster facilities into a cleaner, more efficient and safer facility for those who work in and visit it. We very much look forward to building a strong, lasting partnership with Maersk over the coming years.”

For further information, please visit: www.sb-fm.co.uk

Gloucestershire Royal Hospital takes a step closer to net zero

Vital Energi are implementing a range of low-carbon energy solutions at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital in an £11.2m contract which will reduce Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s carbon footprint by approximately 1,400 tonnes a year and deliver financial savings.

As well as being the most visible part of the hospital site, the 11-storey concrete Tower Block building, which was built in the 1970s, is one of the most visible buildings in Gloucester, dominating the skyline.

Vital Energi are carrying out comprehensive upgrades to the external fabric and windows of all four sides of the Tower Block, from the ground floor up to the 11th floor, which will significantly reduce heat loss through the building fabric and glazing units, resulting in lower energy usage and reduced carbon emissions.

The Tower Block upgrade works will enhance the patient and staff experience through increased natural light, improved ventilation, and reductions in external noise levels, and the two-toned façade panelling will drastically improve the aesthetics of the building.

The existing windows will be replaced with modern, contemporary tripled glazed windows throughout, and the heating systems will be improved too, which will help to optimise the temperature across the building.

The project also includes the installation of a 200kW air source heat pump, which will provide low carbon heat to the hospital, as well as upgrades to the heating and hot water controls systems which will further reduce energy usage and carbon emissions.

Development Engineering

Manager, Rolf Hudson, is playing a key role in the design and delivery of the project.

“We’re really pleased to be working on our second round of PSDS (Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme) projects with the Trust, assisting their journey to net zero carbon by 2040 under a new long-term energy performance contract. We’ve designed an optimum solution which will significantly reduce the hospital’s carbon emissions and energy bills, as well as providing increased levels of staff and patient comfort,” said Rolf.

“We have an extensive track record of delivering complex infrastructure upgrades within hospital environments, and are working closely with hospital staff to ensure energy services are maintained at all times, and the patient experience is not affected.”

Deborah Lee, Chief Executive of the Trust, said:

“We are absolutely thrilled at securing this additional money. This investment will not only provide significant environmental benefits but will also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the Tower Block and bringing with it all those softer associations such as improved morale, staff recruitment and retention and a better public perception of our hospitals.

“This investment comes on top of an existing capital programme of more than £100m which is enabling us to realise our vision for centres of

excellence at our Cheltenham and Gloucester acute hospital sites. We want to provide the very best care possible with patient outcomes as good as anywhere else in the country.”

Jen Cleary, Head of Sustainability for Gloucestershire Managed Services (GMS), which helps to manage the hospital’s estate, said the green funding would help the hospitals to make significant inroads on its carbon emissions.

“We launched our Green Plan last year with the aim of making our NHS hospitals carbon neutral by 2040 in line with national policy. That’s a hugely ambitious goal and this programme is a significant step in that journey,” she said.

The project received grant funding from PSDS Phase 3a and will be delivered through the Carbon and Energy Fund Framework (CEF), which has been specifically created to fund complex energy infrastructure upgrades for public sector organisations.

The construction and engineering works are due to commence on site in March 2023.

Read about the first phase of the Trust’s decarbonisation works here.

Invest in pest professionals, urges trade body

Facilities Managers are being urged to weigh up the cost of cutting corners on pest control this winter.

As temperatures start to drop, rats will start to seek shelter indoors where their gnawing activities can cause significant damage, and their foraging habits can spread disease.

Experts at British Pest Control Association (BPCA) are advising FMs to consider the impact of failed treatments attempted by untrained individuals, which can lead to an infestation spiralling out of control.

Natalie Bungay, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “Businesses have faced a huge number of challenges in recent months and years.

“Many are looking to cut back on costs – but when it comes to pest control, that

can prove a false economy.

“During wintry weather, rats will begin to seek food and shelter indoors, posing a potential risk in premisesbut a greater risk could be a failed attempt at treatment, which can lead to infestations spiralling out of control.”

Pest professionals who are members of BPCA are trained, qualified technicians who follow and maintain a continual professional development scheme.

They are also regularly assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636, carry the correct insurances and commit to the Association’s Codes of Practice.

BPCA experts recommend checking the credentials of pest management companies before engaging their services and advise FMs to arm themselves

with more information, available at: bpca.org.uk/rats

Natalie said: “In the past, harsh winters were a natural method of culling rat populations, which are estimated to be anywhere between 10.5 million and 120 million in the UK.

“Milder winters in recent years are thought to have helped rat populations flourish, but they will still seek shelter and food indoors as the temperature drops.

“We always advocate a ‘prevention rather than cure’ approach and encourage FMs to consider consulting a pest professional, such as a BPCA member, to offer advice on pest-proofing measures for their premises.”

To find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find.

Schools urged to embrace circular economy when upgrading

Ministry of Furniture can upcycle and remanufacture old furniture

In line with the sustainable aims of the 21st Century Schools and Colleges Programme, as well as other school investment schemes in Wales, one company has called for school leadership, architects and construction companies to also integrate the principles of the circular economy into the way they plan their interiors.

Ministry of Furniture, one of the most forward-thinking suppliers of loose and fitted furniture for schools in Wales, has called on schools to consider a number of exciting techniques that align with the principles of a circular economy. Using such techniques can also help inform and educate pupils. These include remanufacturing and reusing the school’s original furniture. For example, old desks can be repurposed as cupboards and storage units or as partitions or bespoke features. As well as often saving money and reducing a school’s carbon footprint, such features also preserve aspects of a building’s heritage and history.

To maximise the potential of such techniques, schools should involve their partner on supplying loose and fitted furniture as early as possible. Ministry of Furniture will conduct an audit of all existing furniture in a school to establish what can be reused, repurposed and remanufactured – and what new furniture is required.

Every project is designed, manufactured (or remanufactured) and installed by local people working from its premises in Wales. It also uses a local supply chain and even partners with Paint 360, a pioneer in the reengineering and reuse of waste paint, to

decorate interiors.

The company has extensive experience working with schools in this way. It also played a key role in the completion of some of the first schools in Wales to be built using the principles of Passivhaus, a design standard dedicated to the principles of sustainability. In the summer of 2022, for example, it supplied, delivered and installed all of the fitted and loose furniture for Ysgol y Castell and Ysgol Gorslas in Carmarthenshire.

Graham Hirst, Managing Director, Ministry of Furniture, said:

“There are some very exciting projects happening in Wales in the way schools are being improved and new facilities built thanks to investment from local authorities and the Welsh Government. We have

been delighted to play a part in some of those projects. But the temptation can often be to only consider future and interiors at a later stage – and to assume that new furniture is required across the board.

“In fact, it can be incredibly exciting to look at what can be reused: upcycled and remanufactured. Not only can this save money and reduce a school’s carbon footprint, it can also provide an opportunity to educate pupils on such techniques while also preserving a school’s heritage.”

Join the PSSA today!

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.

Briton pledges performance with enhanced 2000 door closer series

Briton, a leading specialist in door controls and exit hardware, has launched its newly enhanced 2000 door closer series, adding augmented versions of its highly renowned 2003 and 2003V overhead door closers to its UK portfolio.

The 2000 series, designed for surface mount application and celebrated for its renowned reliability and performance, offers an authentic onebox solution for timber and uninsulated metal doors and is ideal for first time or retrofit functions in a host of domestic and public settings. To meet the developing requirements of customers, Briton is building upon the timeless design of the 2003 and 2003V, optimising both closers for seamless adjustment and installation, with self-adhesive Accufit templates in all mounting

positions designed to assist in quick and accurate fittings.

Briton 2003 – Known for its robust and reliable performance year after year, the Briton 2003 is suitable for doors up to 950mm wide and 60kg and offers a fixed power size EN 3 and a Grade 4 opening angle of 180°, emphasising its advanced versatility. An improved version of the classic Briton cover, complete with a stylish flatform arm that matches its finish, conceals its easy-to-adjust fixing and adjustment screwseach designed to accommodate swift changes to closing speed

and latch action if required.

Briton 2003V – An informed choice for doors up to 1100mm wide and 80kg, the Briton 2003V provides a spring adjustable power size EN 2 – 4, with a built-in adjustable backcheck to help prevent damage to the door, frame and adjacent walls. With its easyaccess adjustment screws to closing and latch regulators, the 2003V’s opening forces can be fine-tuned to satisfy BS8300 recommendations and Approved Document M requirements - offering dependable flexibility where it counts.

Compliant to UKCA CE and Certifire accreditation in Regular, Transom and Parallel applications, both the 2003 and 2003V offer trusted performance and durability and are tested to EN 1154 and EN 1155. The 2000 series is covered by Environmental Product Declaration and is available with an optional, hold-open armset - for use on non-fire doors only. The Briton 2000 series also comes with a 10-year guarantee.

Sue Corrick, product marketing manager at Allegion UK, commented:

“Following a momentous year for the Briton team, we’re now extremely pleased to continue our innovative formula and introduce enhanced versions of the 2003 and 2003V overhead door closers.

“Trusted performance, reliability and durability is what

our customers know us for, and since its launch, the 2000 series has always epitomised that long-standing heritage. With the enhanced 2003 and 2003V, we’re now improving the installation process even further, helping ensure our product functions efficiently and effectively when it matters, for years to come.”

Boasting Briton’s new style packaging designed to reduce waste, the 2000 door closer series is Briton’s second product launch in the past twelve months, following the success of the new 5700 series lockcase. Both the 2003 and

2003V are also supported with complete product information and datasheets, and a golden thread of certification documentation for traceability on the new Briton website.

For more information about the 2000 door closer series, visit: www.briton.co.uk. To find out more about Allegion UK, visit: www.allegion.co.uk

AM Planned Maintenance Reveals its Competitive Edge to Securing New Business

London-based facilities management business, AM Planned Maintenance, reveals how, after 20 years, it continues to secure significant contracts in an increasingly competitive and demanding industry.

Into its 3rd generation, familyowned business, AM Planned Maintenance celebrates its landmark, 20th anniversary this year. With 2 decades of success under its belt, the business continues to go from strength to strength. “Hard-work, taking risks and making data-driven decisions,” are some of the areas Contract Support Manager, Ross Giles, attributes the businesses impressive accomplishments.

Specialising in reactive building fabric solutions across the hospitality, retail, and corporate sectors, AM Planned Maintenance works with various clients, covering over 2,000 sites across Central and Greater London. Over 30 field engineers operate 24/7 to provide customers with an unbeatable service and firstrate results no matter the size of job. With work ranging from minor repairs to large scale refurbishments, the business

responds swiftly to resolve any issues with minimum disruption.

In 2018, AM Planned Maintenance made the decision to expand geographically and increase its current volume of work. With an upsurge in local competition the business needed a way to differentiate its services and stand out.

After months of back and forth with an alternative solution, Contract Support Manager, Ross Giles, discovered WorkPal, a field service management solution that streamlines operations and improves productivity, and “the rest was history”.

Ross explains, “We wanted access to real-time data, streamlined and presentable reporting and somewhere we could store digital paperwork, without the risk of it being lost or damaged throughout the course of an engineer’s day. Initially we struggled to find a system that worked for us, however, when we discovered WorkPal, it aligned with our goals and was compatible with other areas of our business.”

The new infrastructure and processes allowed the business to work more efficiently and provide clients with marketleading service times.

“With our work heavily concentrated inside London, it is crucial to provide our engineers with the best routes that gets them from job to job efficiently and hit client-provided SLA’s. Over the course of a year, our engineers save approximately 274 working days by using the WorkPal Maps option.”

As well as the significant time saving, engineers also save on fuel when travelling between jobs. “With the cost of fuel being as high as it currently is, it’s imperative to make

savings wherever possible. This means we can avoid passing inflation onto our clients and remain as cost competitive as possible,” says Ross.

Office productivity also seen an increase. Prior to introducing WorkPal, office staff had to manually pull together information to create client reports; a timeconsuming task and inefficient for customers. Now, WorkPal generates reports in seconds which can be downloaded and emailed to the client or added to their client portal.

WorkPal’s Business Development Director, Ian Megahey says, “We’ve been working with facilities management businesses for over 10 years. It is a very successful industry for us and one we see real potential in. When Ross and the team joined, they were still using traditional paperbased methods. WorkPal helped transform how the whole business operated, from capturing data onsite to automating the invoicing process; it was a complete infrastructure overhaul. The WorkPal features have enabled the business to gain an edge over their competitors, saving money and provide exceptional service. We are delighted Ross trusted WorkPal to help take AM Planned Maintenance to the next level in terms of expansion.”

During the implementation process, which Ross described as “swift and painless”, the business tested the WorkPal app in the field, assigning and completing jobs. “The feedback was a resounding yes from the engineers. The simple, easy to use desktop app is exceptional. It does exactly what it says on the tin, which is what impressed us the most.”

“Our engineers took to the system well. Of course, there

are a few with an aversion to change but we held in-house training sessions to educate and encourage them to see the benefits of making the switch. The cheat sheets and slides from our onboarding support contact have been very helpful.”

Ian says, “It’s important to have buy-in from your entire workforce when implementing a solution like WorkPal. By showing engineers and office staff the benefits that the system will bring to their dayto-day operations, they become invested in making the change a success going forward.”

WorkPal’s implementation and support teams are on hand to resolve any queries, give recommendations or offer guidance. “It’s important WorkPal works for you”, highlights Ian. With a team of in-house developers, WorkPal can provide custom forms and reports to ensure you are collecting and seeing data how you or your customer needs.

Since the initial implementation of WorkPal, AM Planned Maintenance has increased its user numbers by 160% with plans to increase users by a further

40% in the coming months. “The support aspect was important to us,” explains Ross. “The team at WorkPal have been fantastic right from the beginning. We have had instances which required urgent action, and these were resolved quickly and effectively.”

With sights set on geographical expansion, AM Planned Maintenance has already started increasing its workforce in the South with a forecasted 8-10 additional engineers planned for the new year to meet the increasing demand.

“Recent contractual wins mean and an increase in new work orders arriving from the South Coast means we require more engineers out on the road. We already have 3 which are strategically located south of the M25 which enables faster response times to customers, and we hope to increase this further in 2023.”

And although the business has seen great success with new business in recent years, it remains firmly focused on continually improving services for existing clients. “We are a business that delivers all of its

work in-house,” says Ross, “and once we sign a contract with a client, we will deliver that to them in the best way possible.”

As the world moves to a more autonomous way of working, AM Planned Maintenance felt it was important to keep pace but within its own parameters.

“If I could give any advice to businesses when choosing a digital system, it would be to learn to walk before you can run. Do your research and put in the hard work to find a solution that is right for your business. It’s important that the system you choose aligns with your business goals and current infrastructure. I would 100% recommend WorkPal to other businesses and have done so recently.”

Ian highlights, “WorkPal is as an extension to your business. It’s rewarding to see AM Planned Maintenance benefiting from the features it has to offer, winning new contracts and improving how it operates. We look forward to working with Ross and the team for many years to come.”

To find out more about WorkPal visit workpal.app

Moreton Deakin keeps a weather eye on CaberShieldPlus

A burgeoning new building company, based in the beautiful but often challenging surroundings of West Yorkshire, is making full and effective use of West Fraser’s CaberShieldPlus to protect its floor installations from the worst of the country’s notoriously variable weather conditions.

Moreton Deakin Construction was set up some 18 months ago by Luke Milner and Sam Moreton Deakin to help meet work demands generated by the latter’s successful architectural practice, with most of the work being generated through existing architecture clients that the company offers design and cost advice to during the planning process. Logically, the company is best placed to carry out the project as the planning process has resulted in an understanding of the client’s specific requirements and any potential risks. Operating primarily across the Calder Valley and wider Yorkshire area, current projects include three large bespoke houses including associated pool house, a 3000sq/ft warehouse for a steel fabricator and conversion of an existing mill into 13 apartments.

Joint Managing Director, Luke Milner comments: “I have worked for a number of main contractors, including BAM, but have known Sam for a long time, and have watched his architectural business grow. While the first couple of jobs that we undertook came through the architecture side, work now is 50-50 with other clients; while our ethos remains the sameto ensure that customers get something that they can afford and that is fit-for-purpose.

“Obviously the weather can be quite severe up here in Yorkshire and whether it is a

new house, an extension or a commercial build, we make sure the specification is going to stand up to the rain as well as the other, practical challenges. And West Fraser’s CaberShieldPlus is something I’d used a number of times in the past as a very robust, fully protected flooring solution.

“We specify it mainly for the first or upper floors, where it is going to be exposed for a period of two months or more. It is one of the few products we are aware of that will cope with such conditions and it’s easy to use. It stands the test of time, is quick to install, and it’s a good, efficient product that our joiners like to use”.

CaberShieldPlus is a durable, P5 flooring which features a permanent, waterproof coating on both sides. Almost exclusively preferred now to P4 boards - for both new-build and refurbishment applications, the P5 particleboard panels are able to withstand the unpredictable British climate without deterioration.

The tongue and groove TG4 profile product is available as 18 or 22mm thick sheets, measuring 2400 x 600mm, making it easy to install and provides excellent loadcarrying capacity without needing noggins. As well as housebuilding, CaberShieldPlus is suitable for schools, hospitals

and commercial applications.

Like many contractors, Moreton Deakin Construction chooses to install CaberShieldPlus using West Fraser’s solvent-free CaberFix D4 - part of its CaberFix range, which is a one-component polyurethane adhesive also suitable for use with CaberFloor and CaberDek boards. It allows the user to see where a seal is made and is ideal for both bonding flooring boards to joists and securing T&G joints; as well as for sealing the edges of boards.

To find out more about West Fraser’s products for housebuilders, get in touch with Dan Clarke - email Daniel. Clarke@westfraser.com or download product brochures from the housebuilder page of the West Fraser website https://uk.westfraser. com/housebuilders/

Building & Refurbishment

Bidding begins for spots on Pagabo’s £1BN Refit and Refurbishment framework

LEADING national framework provider Pagabo has opened bidding for its latest construction framework – the second generation of its Refit and Refurbishment framework – following the publication of tender documents.

The new generation of the framework will run for four years from March 2023, taking place of the current iteration, which expires in February. It will provide a compliant and collaborative route to market for public and private sector clients to procure refit and refurbishment works valued at £50,000 and above.

With a total value of £1 billion and to meet the demand for Pagabo’s ever-growing base of national clients across all major business sectors, the framework will be split into five value-based lots as follows:

Lot 1 - £50k to £500k

Lot 2 - £500k to £1m

Lot 3 - £1m to £5m

Lot 4 - £5m to £15m

Lot 5 - £15m+

Under these lots, up to nine contractors will be allocated to each regional sub lot, comprising six core and three reserve suppliers. A number of these places are reserved for SMEs to ensure fair access for organisations of any size, to provide ample choice for clients, and to ensure the generation of maximum positive social impact for communities.

Jason Stapley, managing director at Pagabo, said: “After gathering expressions of interest, we’re encouraged

with the response to our latest construction framework offering and are welcoming bids ahead of launching next year.

“To ensure we are not resting on our laurels, this secondgeneration of the framework has been developed by feedback from the contracting authority, existing client organisations and interested suppliers that were familiar with the original version.

“We have an understanding of what has worked well in the past and what is needed to enable procurement fit for the future in line with recognised best practices for the construction industry. Our framework offerings are available for up to four years, so it’s vital that we futureproof them as best as we can.”

Client organisations that use the framework and the appointed contractors will have access to a free version of Loop’s social value software for all procured projects – a feature of all Pagabo’s frameworks. This access will allow reporting so that it is easier demonstrate the social value being generated through projects.

Public and private sector framework users will be able to appoint suppliers via direct award or competition depending on their requirements. Suppliers on the core list will be eligible for direct appointments and further competitions, and those on the reserve list will only be eligible for direct appointments. However, they will be included in further competitions should not enough from the core list respond to a further competition expression of interest.

Red Kite Learning Trust (RKLT) will be the contracting authority for the new agreement, continuing its role from the current iteration of the framework. Interested suppliers must submit bid documents via the procurement portal by 12:00 on 11 January 2023 and can expect to hear whether they have been successfully appointed ahead of the framework launching in March 2023.

For more information, please visit https://www.pagabo.co.uk/

HEAT PUMPS - SOLAR THERMAL - WATER HEATERS - BOILERS - CYLINDERS - PACKAGED PLANT ROOMS

Top performing CaberMDF Pro and Pro MR from West Fraser

Both CaberMDF Pro and CaberMDF Pro MR from timber product specialist, West Fraser, are premium grade Medium Density Fibreboards developed for interior joinery: their uniform consistency offering all the benefits of timber, but without the natural defects.

Due to their construction and smooth surfaces, CaberMDF Pro and Pro MR are ideal for use where intricate detailing is required; plus, the boards are ideally suited to machining and surface finishing, as well as being able to accept high

quality paint finishes. Both are easy to saw, drill and rout cleanly without chipping or splintering. Therefore, elaborate detailing is possible, while for the most artistic of interior designers, developers or builders, the boards will even accept foils and ornate veneers. The versatile panels are suited to shop fitting, general purpose joinery and furniture making, as well as wall panelling, architectural mouldings, and the production of doors. They are also frequently specified for

exhibition stands, staircases and even fire surrounds, as well as in public buildings, banks and hotels.

Then in terms of the product designation, the MR refers to the moisture resisting treatment and conditioning given to the CaberMDF Pro MR boards during their production, making them suitable for use in kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms or other situations where the environment is prone to high humidity.

Ruggedness as well as accuracy of manufacture is also enhanced by the industrial grade’s superior screw and fastener holding over other types of panel product, thanks to the board’s carefully selected, high quality fibres and internal bond strength.

At 1220mm wide, both boards are available in lengths of 2440 or 3050mm; and in thicknesses of 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 22, 25 and 30mm. For CaberMDF Pro, extra options include sizes of 1525 and 1830mm, plus 2745 x 1220mm with the longest board measuring 3660 x 1220 mm.

For peace of mind, the boards also conform to European E1 emission standard, comply with BS EN 622: Parts 1 and 5, and carry the CE mark. To find out more about West Fraser’s products for housebuilders, get in touch with Dan Clarke - email Daniel.Clarke@westfraser.com or download product brochures from the housebuilder page of the West Fraser website https://uk.westfraser. com/housebuilders/

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/

Your Commercial Hire Partner

Do you need a fast, reliable, tailor-made hire solution? We’re not just a supplier for all of your hire needs nationwide, but your hire partner who will work alongside your business to provide expertise, consultation and a complete hire procurement service, saving you valuable time and money.

Whether it’s powered/ manual access, plant hire, tool hire, temporary accommodation, power generation, waste disposal and more, we’ll coordinate all your hire needs, end-to-end with a single point of contact.

• End-to-end hire management with a single point of contact

• Nationwide set rates

• Unrivalled knowledge & expertise

• Kit ready, on-site and on-time

• Great value every time

• Certainty, reliability, ease & speed

• Working with your deadlines - speedy & smooth deliveries

Whatever your challenge, we’ll get it sorted.

Contact us today for a free quote: Customers@wownowhire.co.uk

www.wownowhire.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/wownowhire/ WowNow Hire | Facebook

The Offsite Guide – A Revolutionary One-Stop Resource for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)

Launched in January 2023 The Offsite Guide is the first B2B marketplace in the UK and Europe for MMC - a platform for businesses to explore options for using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and interact with specialist manufacturers.

As a marketplace TOG facilitates engagement between key market participants and drives awareness of the many benefits of MMC including more efficient production, economies of scale and repeatability. In doing so it provides a central point of reference for product variety, availability, & pricing specification. Crucially, it provides a platform for direct communication between a wide range of providers and their potential customers in this fragmented market.

“At The Offsite Guide we attract and facilitate early interaction with customers, allowing manufacturers of commercial and domestic modular buildings and offsite solutions to showcase a range of their products & help educate potential customers. We provide a trusted platform not only for showcasing offsite construction, but also to facilitate initial dialogue and ongoing interaction between customers, manufacturers and MMC suppliers.”

Ingrid Orbie – Director

For TOG Partners, listing MMC case studies & solutions on the Offsite Guide marketplace is a cost-effective method for manufacturers to bring in targeted traffic. Partners listings can easily be found under various search categories that can subtlety hand off and complement other marketing channels in the marketeer’s toolbox. Listing

as a partner will also assist the partner company’s own website SEO ranking in an effective and cost-efficient way. For companies offering products and services complementary to MMC, creating an entry in the TOG Directory is an effective way to promote to the sector. These offsite system & product suppliers include companies offering panellised systems, sub-assemblies & components, as well as site based MMC structural components. This also includes offsite main contractors & other professionals including main & general contractors, offsite/ modular solutions, offsite consultants & engineers, offsite designers, and digital designers and architects. A wider group of offsite trades people are also included in the Directory such as groundwork companies, electricians, carpenters, plumbers, landscape & external works contractors, flooring installers, painters & decorators, and all associated construction products like road signs, PPE, damage protection products, health & safety products.

Whether listing as a TOG Partner on the marketplace or as Advertiser in the Directory, TOG offers an opportunity to raise brand awareness, increase a company’s visibility and gain access to new customers. Through TOG’s marketing and launch promotion campaigns TOG is striving to elevate MMC sales channels and engage with the market in a more efficient and effective way.

Until now, there has been a lack of any resource for either private and commercial buyers to search & compare modular buildings and offsite solutions and engage directly with suppliers. The Offsite Guide provides this much needed resource in this fast-developing market.

Online marketplaces are prevalent in many different B2B and B2C markets and are globally recognised as efficient methods of delivering fast, efficient and timely market interaction. By bringing proven marketplace technology to the MMC market TOG is strengthening the ecosystem of the MMC construction sector.

Housing associations

(HAs), developers, builders, self-builders, schools and universities, suppliers, central and local governments are all seeking more sustainable and efficient ways of construction. The TOG marketplace facilitates that search for proven solutions and gives examples and case studies that show ways that organisations and developers can break tradition and drive efficiency using MMC. Ultimately this is a way to share information and experience, as well as to educate the market.

To find out more and to benefit from TOG’s marketing expertise in the built environment and the construction sector go to www. theoffsiteguide.com. Partner and Advertiser eBooks can be downloaded from the site that give more detail of the services on offer.

GOJO wipes away tough soils with new product launch

GOJO extends range of heavy-duty hand cleaners with new Hand & Surface Scrubbing Wipes

Hardworking hands and surfaces need a hardworking wipe. Skin and surface hygiene specialist, GOJO Industries-Europe is proud to introduce new Hand & Surface Scrubbing Wipes to its highperforming range of solutions for tough soils environments.

For use in a variety of trade workplaces, such as construction sites, garages, workshops, factories, or anywhere that heavy-duty cleaning is required, these multi-purpose wipes are impregnated with a cleaning and degreasing solution that is highly effective on heavy soils, but gentle on skin. Designed for use on hands, arms, tools and objects, materials, and surfaces, they remove tar, paint, sealant, grease, and oil quickly and easily – and without the need for water.

These extra-large and thick non-woven wipes are dual textured, with an abrasive side to remove heavy soils and a smooth side that leaves hands feeling soft. Dermatologically tested and enriched with Vitamin E, they won’t irritate skin and feature a pleasant citrus fragrance too.

Incredibly easy-to-use, GOJO Hand & Surface Scrubbing Wipes are available in two different sizes and quantities: an 80-count canister (200 x 270mm) and a 70-count bucket (300 x 250mm).

Chris Wakefield, V.P. European Marketing and Managing Director UK & Ireland, GOJO IndustriesEurope Ltd. comments: ‘For more than 75 years, workers

in heavy industries have depended on GOJO to safely and effectively clean and care for their hands. Skin on the hands commonly takes the brunt of damage from working in heavy or manual industries so it is crucial that people have access to high quality cleaners that are tough on dirt, but gentle on skin. Our specialist range does both, and we are pleased to add the new Hand & Surface Scrubbing Wipes to this portfolio. They offer the ultimate in convenience, removing heavy dirt and grime from both hands and various surfaces quickly and effectively.’

GOJO Hand & Surface Scrubbing Wipes complete the company’s heavy-duty cleaning range, which includes:

• GOJO® NATURAL HAND CLEANER. Using apricot stone and corn seed scrubbers, this is suitable for medium-duty soils, such as dirt, grease, oil, carbon black, oil-based paint and tar.

• GOJO® OLIVE HAND CLEANER. Heavy-duty soils, such as caulk, graphite, adhesive, paint, sealant, and tar are removed by the action of an olive-stone scrubber.

• GOJO® SUPROMAX HAND CLEANER. A walnutscrubber formulation cleaner that removes sticky soils and adhesive.

For more information, call +44 (0)1908 588444, email CustomerExperienceUK@ GOJO.com, or visit www.GOJO.com.

Sybron launches first own brand with new biotechnology cleaning range – SyBio

Sybron, a leading UK supplier of cleaning, hygiene, and catering products to some of the largest names in hospitality, has launched its first own brand with SyBio, a range of biotechnology-based cleaning products. Partnering with BioVate Hygienics, Sybron has developed a range of products that have replaced harmful, non-renewable chemicals with adaptive biotechnology that cleans, disinfects, and protects.

SyBio is a range of biotechnology-based products that combines probiotic, enzyme and plant-based ingredients to maximise performance with minimal environmental impact. The SyBio products consist of concentrated cleaners, sanitisers and detergents delivered through wall mounted dispensers for optimal dosage control.

“BioVate Hygienics has pioneered the evolution of biotechnology-based cleaning products and share our passion and forward thinking for sustainable cleaning and development of green cleaning methods,” explains George Mason, sales and marketing director, Sybron. “Our objectives for the range are to deliver environmentally friendly products that provide safer applications and improved performance along with reduced costs.”

“Our partnership with BioVate Hygienics provides the expertise and innovation that has enabled us to develop an extensive and diverse range to our clients,” continues George Mason. “Developing our own range has given us more control to deliver specialist products for every cleaning requirement,” adds George Mason. “It also gave us the opportunity to offer a superior cleaning performance

that is cost effective and with minimal impact on the environment. All products are highly concentrated formulas, which based on cost in use figures provides a 15-20% saving against other ranges.”

SyBio uses plantbased & bio-based surfactants, utilising the latest biotechnology that mixes natural enzymes and bacteria, which has 30 times more actives than any other biotechnology-based cleaning range. What is more, using SyBio provides long term protection for surfaces through a residual clean. After use, SyBio leaves a layer of good bacteria that protects surfaces against dirt and pathogens for up to 30 days.

“The more you use SyBio, the cleaner and safer your environments become,” explains George. “Using naturally derived ingredients reduces toxicity compared to traditional chemical-based cleaning products. Using sciencebased biotechnology increases performance and sustainability

across your cleaning protocol. SyBio’s concentrated formula brings the cost efficiencies we all need at this time along with a huge reduction in plastic.”

Our biotechnology products are non-hazardous in their ready to use format, and are UK manufactured in line with Sybron’s core values of moving traditional cleaning forwards to be more effective, safer and sustainable.

“Our dedicated teams work with customers to offer the best cleaning products specific to their business, including complete installation of dispensers and ongoing support,” concludes George Mason. For more information go to www.sybron.co.uk.

CHSA’s Guarantee extended to quality of office bin liners

Buyers of office and wheeley bin liners are now protected by the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association’s (CHSA) quality guarantee.

“Buyers of office and wheeley bin liners are now protected by the same guarantees enjoyed by buyers of FFP (Fit for Purpose) and OTH (Other) plastic refuse sacks,” explained Lorcan Mekitarian, chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association. “Wherever they see the CHSA Accreditation Scheme mark they can be certain the quality matches the specification.”

Wheeley and office bin liners are often sold as light, medium and heavy duty. The CHSA has defined those duties and implemented a minimum net weight (MNW) to guarantee the duty referred to on the label. Buyers can now be certain they get what they pay for.

MNW is specified according to size, thickness and quantity. The MNW is the weight of the liners alone in a case. It does not include the box or any other packaging. As an example, the minimum net weight of light duty Pedal Bin Liners for a quantity of 500 liners is specified as up to 1kg. For medium duty, the weight is 1-2kg and for heavy duty it is 2kg or over.

The Accreditation Scheme

for Manufacturers of Plastic Sacks now has three streams:

· Fit for Purpose (FFP): covering performance rated plastic refuse sacks, this category guarantees they are fit for purpose and of the highest quality. Products are Drop Tested to the weight on the label. It also guarantees the dimensions and count are as indicated on the label.

· Liners (LIN): covering office bin liners and wheeley bin liners, this category guarantees the duty referred to on the label is accurate and in accordance with the minimum net weight specified by the CHSA. It also guarantees the dimensions and count are as indicated on the label.

· Other (OTH): covering all other sacks and liners including low-volume madeto-order plastic sacks, this

category guarantees the dimensions and count are as indicated on the label.

The CHSA operates six Accreditation Schemes. They are for manufacturers of paperbased and woven products, plastic-based products, cotton-based products, and cleaning chemicals, for general manufacturers and for distributors of cleaning and hygiene products.

The integrity of the schemes is underpinned by Independent Inspection. The Inspector conducts approximately 150 audits every year, checking about 4,000 individual products. Members quality assurance processes and product quality are checked, confirming ‘what’s in the box is what’s on the box’. @CHSACleaning www.CHSA.co.uk

Meet Jordan.

Jordan arrived at an elderly customer’s house and found the customer struggling to get into the family car due to a flat battery.

Jordan managed to open the door and pull the handle inside to gain access. He then popped the bonnet and jumpstarted the car from his van. He got the car running again and then went to unblock the drain.

Complete water in, waste out solutions. Find out more: www.metrorod.co.uk

Most people would run away, we’re not most people.

PSSA

BECOME A CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE PSSA

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.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

• 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)

WHAT DOES IT COST

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