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Siemens awarded framework agreement by E.ON to supply charging systems and services to decarbonize road transport across Europe
• Siemens and E.ON have signed a global framework agreement (GFA) to strengthen E.ON’s public charging network
• GFA comprises SICHARGE D high power chargers
• Backend access via Sifinity Control to maximize charger reliability and uptime for E.ON customers
Siemens Smart Infrastructure and E.ON Drive Infrastructure are collaborating to bring smart and efficient fastcharging infrastructure to millions of electric vehicles driving across Europe.
The two companies have signed a global framework agreement that includes access to the web-based backend service Sifinity Control in addition to DC charging stations. This gives E.ON comprehensive visibility and configuration options across the charging stations to easily manage and monitor the entire charging network.
The company has also ordered several IoT-enabled substations. These will provide additional value for E.ON by effectively managing the energy supply for the charging stations and intelligently controlling the infrastructure.
In addition to providing backend access to E.ON, which is a new and unique feature, Siemens offers a variety of service concepts over the lifetime of the charging infrastructure. This ensures highest availability and a reliable charging experience for the driver.
The SICHARGE D charging system enables a total of four charge points to one grid connection and the possibility
to choose Worldline Valina as one of various payment terminals. Through this, E.ON gets the flexibility to fulfill different regions’ requirements.
The framework agreement will see the two companies strengthen charging infrastructure across Europe in markets including Germany, Italy, Sweden and the United Kingdom. This facilitates E.ON’s objective to launch at least 1,000 new public high-power charging points per year. The contract covers a two-year timeframe, during which additional technologies like truck charging and Megawatt charging will be further developed to future-proof increasing demand for a broader range of electric road transport.
Arjan Van Der Eijk, Chief Operating Officer at E.ON Drive Infrastructure stated: “With Siemens, we have another strong provider on board that supports us with its solutions for the expansion of our public charging network in Europe, serving a wide range of current and future use cases. The combination of reliable hardware and tailor-made services ensures a stable network and an optimized charging experience.’’
Siemens SICHARGE D chargers, which meet Deutschlandnetz requirements
and are compliant with the German calibration law (Eichrecht), have undergone intensive testing at E.ON’s e-mobility testing lab in Essen, Germany, proving their field readiness. The new framework agreement follows a separate tender, which saw Siemens Smart Infrastructure supply and install 17 SICHARGE D chargers in the Czech Republic.
Markus Mildner, CEO of eMobility at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, said: “For charging station operators, customer satisfaction and a high level of profitability are the most important priorities. With the high quality and reliability of our hardware and our service offerings, we want to support E.ON in achieving this goal.”
The E.ON subsidiary E.ON Drive Infrastructure is a pan-European charge point operator that combines network development, construction and operation of public charging infrastructure for electric cars and commercial vehicles. It is one of the leading providers of charging stations along German highways.
Siemens eMobility offers IoTenabled hardware, software and services for AC and DC charging from 11 kW to 1 Megawatt for a broad range of applications.
Hybrid Wireless Fire Detection: A Lifeline for Historic Buildings
Facilities managers responsible for preserving the UK’s rich architectural heritage face a unique challenge: balancing fire safety with the need to maintain a building’s historical integrity. Traditional fire detection systems can often involve intrusive installation, damaging delicate plasterwork, woodwork, and other irreplaceable features. However, a technological revolution is underway, offering a solution that combines cutting-edge innovation with respect for the past: hybrid wireless fire detection.
Hybrid systems seamlessly integrate wireless devices with traditional wired components, providing flexibility and efficiency without compromising protection. By minimising the need for intrusive cabling, these systems allow for discreet installation, preserving the building’s aesthetic appeal. Moreover, wireless detectors can be easily relocated or added as building requirements change, offering unparalleled adaptability.
One company at the forefront of this technology is Hochiki Europe, a leading provider of fire safety solutions. Their systems have been instrumental in safeguarding numerous historic buildings across the UK and Europe. For instance, the Palazzo Ducale di Revere in Italy which is almost 900 years old and the iconic Atlantic Hotel in Cornwall, which opened 125 years ago and has retained many of its original features such as the glamourous marbled entrance to its historic sweeping staircase. By utilising hybrid wireless technology, the teams at both sites were able to install wireless detectors in sensitive areas without causing any damage to the building’s fabric, ensuring
both safety and preservation.
The benefits of hybrid wireless fire detection extend beyond aesthetic considerations. Installation time is significantly reduced compared to traditional wired systems, minimising disruption to building occupants and operations. Additionally, wireless sensors offer greater coverage, particularly in areas with complex layouts or obstructions. This ensures that every corner of the building is protected, enhancing overall fire safety.
While hybrid systems offer numerous advantages, it’s essential to select a solution that meets the specific requirements of an historic building. Factors such as
building size, layout, and the level of protection required should be carefully considered. Consulting with experienced fire safety professionals is crucial to ensure the chosen system is both effective and compliant with relevant regulations.
As technology continues to evolve, hybrid wireless fire detection is set to become an increasingly popular choice for facilities managers responsible for historic buildings. By combining the best of both worlds, these systems offer a compelling solution that safeguards lives and preserves our cultural heritage for future generations.
Learn more about hybrid wireless technology.
events of falling masonry per year in the UK*
HOUSE OF HORRORS PRESENTS WARNING!
After years of looking the other way, Janet’s façade finally cracked and what lurked beneath was a waking nightmare…
Is your building safe? Are you sure?
With a growing backlog of maintenance and repairs, with increasing incidents of injuries from falling masonry, can you afford the financial and reputational hit from a damaged façade?
There are an estimated 14,400 events of falling masonry and debris annually in the UK*, with at least 5 instances of death or serious injury per year**. Could your building be at risk?
In the last 24 months, Thomann-Hanry® has removed over 750kg of loose masonry during façade surveys With storms predicted to become more frequent and intense, cracked masonry could pose a serious liability.
How Thomann-Hanry® can help you!
With decades of experience in surveying, maintaining, and cleaning commercial façades, Thomann-Hanry® helps prevent potential hazards. We conduct surveys from MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms), allowing for close-up inspections and immediate removal of loose masonry, meaning that you don’t have to shroud your building in unsightly scaffolding which also saves you time and money.
Our detailed façade surveys identify hidden issues and key concerns, enabling you to make informed repair or replacement decisions before problems escalate.
A York Stone copingstone which has delaminated and fractured. Just one of the many significant façade issues which Thomann-Hanry has encountered during a commercial façade survey.
Electrical engineering contractor Meckel has installed Marshall-Tufflex’s MT Supertube and Wire Basket to ensure an efficient, compliant and durable cable management system as part of the £105m major redevelopment works at Luton & Dunstable University Hospital. The products were crucial in meeting the stringent requirements of the hospital environment, contributing to the success of this significant healthcare development.
The substantial project, procured through the Crown Commercial Services (CCS) framework, which started in 2022 and is due for completion by Summer 2025, involves constructing a new clinical building to improve maternity, neonatal, theatres and critical care services. The five-storey acute services and ward blocks will house modern and enhanced facilities, including a delivery suite, midwiferyled birthing and neonatal intensive care units with parent accommodation, ambulatory
surgery, theatre suites and a critical care unit with bespoke accommodation for relatives.
Working in collaboration with Kier Mechanical Electrical Division (KME), Meckel was contracted to carry out all the electrical installation works, including cable containment. As the specification of the right cable management solution for the extensive project was critical, Meckel approached Marshall-Tufflex to discuss the requirements and the suitability of MT Supertube and Wire Basket solutions.
After confirming that these products met the specific needs of the hospital’s environment, Meckel has used MT Supertube and Wire Basket extensively throughout the project. MT Supertube is a unique, threelayer heavy gauge conduit comprising polyethylene internal and external layers over a continuous aluminium tube that provides additional mechanical strength. It was chosen for its LS0H properties and excellent electromagnetic
interference (EMI) screening performance – all of which are essential for ensuring continued, issue-free performance in a healthcare setting.
“MT Supertube with EMC fittings was chosen for the ELV services as it provides a fully compliant solution,” explains Mark Turnbull, Director, Meckel. “It also has the further benefit of being supplied in coils which means it’s easy to move around the site and the amount of wastage from offcuts is kept to a minimum.”
Meckel specified the Wire Basket for cable routing at Luton & Dunstable Hospital as the company had used it on a previous job and was impressed with its performance. As a result, it is now Meckel’s preferred product and is being installed in several other healthcare projects. The Wire Basket is made from steel with an electrozinc finish and offers a unique rippled design that enhances strength while remaining lightweight. Importantly, Wire Basket is very quick to install, thanks to integral ‘quick-fit’ connectors. It also provides easy cable threading, high load capacity, resistance to flexing, and an excellent aesthetic finish.
“Marshall-Tufflex’s Wire Basket is a great product. It is quick and easy to install and cost-effective,” said Mark. “We’re pleased with the overall cable management installation. The products are quick to install and provide a long-lasting, robust solution that meets the demanding requirements of the hospital environment.”
For more information on Marshall-Tufflex, please visit www.marshall-tufflex.com.
Energy with AKCP Sensors
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.
Ceremony marks new Coventry school SENCO enhancement works
Grace Academy School in Coventry celebrated the opening of its upgraded facilities in a community launch ceremony this week with Ireland International football player, Andrew Townsend, in attendance.
Regional contractors joined forces to carry out ‘The BIG Build’ charitable programme of works over the summer at Grace Academy and the event brought together members of the school and all suppliers to unveil brandnew classroom facilities and sensory spaces which will enrich the lives of students.
Attendees enjoyed a tour of the enhancement works, live music, canapes and a speech from Andrew Townsend.
McLaren Construction Midlands and North division and Opus Land led the community project which has been supported by Architect – Webb Gray, Structural Engineer – SBK, Mechanical & Electrical Engineers – CPW
and Landscaper – Whiting’s, who provided the landscape and raised beds works.
The works have included a complete refurbishment and remodelling of existing classrooms to form larger teaching and sensory spaces, alongside access to the outside. New walls, ceilings and floorings have also been installed, complemented by new LED lighting, heating, security and fire alarm systems.
The newly reconfigured environments will offer room for small group intervention and 1-2-1 support, with internal staff and external agencies ensuring students with special educational and emotional needs can be as fully equipped as possible for success.
Head of Grace Academy, Natasha Whiles, said: “We are so incredibly grateful and blessed with the new facilities. It’s such an improvement on our old facilities - and I can’t wait to see the student’s faces when they come in and
see their new space, and just how amazing it looks.”
Operations Director at McLaren Construction Midlands and North, Shaun Colley, said: “We are proud to have led this community project with Opus Land with the support of regional contractors - giving back to this incredible academy.
“The ceremony was a fantastic event, showcasing state-of-the-art classrooms and new spaces within the existing school that will improve the lives of the current and future intake of students. We would like to extend a huge thank you to all of the designers and contractors who committed to supporting this project alongside everyone who attended in celebrating the programme.”
Joint Managing Director of Opus Land, Richard Smith, said: “We are most grateful to McLaren Construction and all the other companies involved in the BIG Build for their tremendous generosity here.
“Opus originally got involved in The Grace Academy through their development of the nearby Prospero estate on the Ansty Business Park and soon came to realise the tremendous results that the school fulfils for the local community. It was wonderful to celebrate the new improvements to the Grace Academy which will enhance the lives of so many.”
McLaren Construction Midlands and North serves both the public and private sectors in core areas including commercial offices, residential, education, retail, distribution and logistics, hotels, and leisure.
No one does more to support Britain’s buildings
PTSG Fire Solutions Ltd offers an unrivalled breadth and depth of fire safety and security services.
With five independent business divisions delivering the full range of specialist services, PTSG ensures buildings of all kinds are safe, clean and compliant – in all sectors.
UK-first carbon capture pilot on energy from waste facility goes live
• The project at enfinium’s Ferrybridge energy from waste site is the UK’s first carbon capture pilot of its kind.
• The pilot is capturing one tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2) each day, running for at least 12 months.
• Earlier this year, enfinium announced its Net Zero Transition Plan, setting out how it will decarbonise its own operations and deliver up to 1.2 million tonnes of carbon removals a year in the 2030s.
• The trial marks a milestone in enfinium’s Net Zero Transition Plan to become a carbon removal business by the early 2030s.
• Generating carbon removals, or ‘negative emissions’, at scale is critical for the UK to achieve Net Zero by 2050. enfinium, a leading UK energy from waste operator, today announces it has successfully launched the UK’s first carbon capture pilot at an energy from waste site. The launch is a milestone for the sector and for enfinium’s plans to deploy Carbon Capture and Storage
(CCS) technology across its UK facilities to generate carbon removals at scale and support the UK’s Net Zero target.
The technology, a containerised, scaled-down version of the CCS technology that enfinium could deploy across all of its sites, was supplied by global green technology company Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI). The pilot is installed at enfinium’s Ferrybridge-1 energy from waste facility in Knottingley, West Yorkshire, and is capturing one tonne of CO2 emissions from the plant’s operations each day.
The trial is being used to demonstrate how the technology can be applied at scale across enfinium’s fleet of six energy from waste facilities to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. The pilot is collecting real operational data on performance, such as CO2 capture rate and solvent degradation, and will assess the performance of different amine solvents. The trial will run for at least 12 months.
Earlier this year, enfinium announced its Net Zero Transition Plan, setting out how it will decarbonise its own operations and deliver up to 1.2 million tonnes of carbon
removals a year in the 2030s. The plan is underpinned by an investment programme of up to £1.7 billion, with a focus on investing in carbon capture and storage technology across its energy from waste facilities to deliver carbon removals at scale. The carbon capture pilot marks an important milestone in enfinium’s pathway to deliver carbon removals, helping to inform the future deployment and operation of CCS technology across its sites.
Deploying CCS at energy from waste facilities generates durable carbon removals, or ‘negative emissions.’ Around 50% of the unrecyclable waste produced by society is made up of biogenic content including organic material such as waste food, plants and paper, which has already naturally absorbed CO2 from the atmosphere. Installing CCS technology at an energy from waste facility enables this CO2 to be permanently captured and stored rather than released back into the atmosphere, resulting in a net carbon removal from the atmosphere.1
The Climate Change Committee’s Progress Report, in July, noted that the UK must accelerate the production of carbon removals to stay on track to achieve Net Zero.2 Recent research by the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies found that the energy from waste sector could contribute up to 8 million tonnes of carbon removals.3
Mike Maudsley, CEO of enfinium, said: “We are proud to have this sector-leading project up and running at our Ferrybridge facility. Carbon capture and storage technology is central to how the UK will be able to decarbonise its unrecyclable waste.
“CCS is also critical to generating carbon removals at
scale so the UK can achieve Net Zero. Using carbon capture, the energy from waste sector can provide significant levels of carbon removals and enfinium, with the support of HZI, are taking steps now to achieve this.”
Bruno-Frédéric Baudouin, CEO of HZI, commented: “Working with enfinium to deliver the UK’s first carbon capture pilot at an energy from waste facility is an exciting project. The operational pilot demonstrates our capability to deliver vital decarbonising infrastructure for the waste sector that is critical to the industry’s Net Zero ambitions. The project will meaningfully expand our carbon capture knowledge base and provide a springboard for delivering decarbonisation solutions worldwide. Our vision is to enhance decarbonisation, circularity and supply security for present and future generations, and this project embodies perfectly
what we are striving for.”
Olivia Powis, CEO, Carbon Capture and Storage Association, commented: “The launch of CCS at Ferrybridge is very exciting to see. With millions of tonnes of unrecyclable waste produced by the UK, this is an important demonstration of the use of CCS to generate clean power via energy from waste, as well as providing a future route to establishing the UK’s greenhouse gas removal market and enfinium have taken a landmark step with its delivery. Through projects such as the one at Ferrybridge, the UK will be able to meet the clean power by 2030 target.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said: “I’m delighted to see the fantastic work being piloted in Ferrybridge, continuing the long tradition of energy generation and innovation in West Yorkshire.
“To see this development
from enfinium is massively encouraging, as our own modelling shows a need for carbon capture and storage to help us reach our Net Zero ambitions.
“Climate change is one of the biggest global challenges we face, so it’s vital we find new opportunities for innovation that can help us build a greener, more secure region that’s fit for the future.”
Today, enfinium is also advancing the planning and consenting programme for the installation of Carbon Capture and Storage at its Ferrybridge 1 and 2 Facilities in West Yorkshire by launching a five-week public consultation, running from 16 September to 20 October 2024. The project was designated as a Project of National Significance earlier this year. To find out more, share feedback, or register for the online webinar, please contact decarbonisation@ enfiniumferrybridge.co.uk.
planning and fast commissioning, less time on-site Self-configuring mesh network offering a high level of reliability
Flamco Unveils the Flexfiller MiniPress: NextGeneration Digital Pressurisation Unit for Heating and Cooling Systems
The compact and efficient MiniPress sets a new standard in rapid setup and eco-friendly design, supporting a more sustainable future.
Flamco, the industry leader in pressurisation technology for sealed heating and cooling systems, has introduced the Flexfiller MiniPress—a compact, wall-mounted digital pressurisation unit that significantly reduces commissioning time to under 30 seconds, supporting efficient and eco-friendly installations.
The Flexfiller MiniPress offers unprecedented setup speed and user-friendly controls, enabling first commissioning in under 30 seconds. Its compact design, supplied with wall-mounting fixtures, is perfect for installations where space or access is limited.
The MiniPress features a built-in break tank with a visible AB air gap for backflow prevention, ensuring compliance and enhancing site safety. This innovation provides peace of mind for all involved by preventing crosscontamination between supply water and sealed system water.
With its compact design and higher levels of component recyclability, the MiniPress supports Flamco’s commitment to sustainability. The unit’s smaller size reduces material use during production, minimises transport emissions, and decreases the overall environmental impact. Operating at five times the energy efficiency of its main competitor, it’s a greener choice for today’s eco-conscious market.
“At Flamco, we’re committed to developing products that
not only perform at the highest levels but also contribute to a more sustainable future,” said Sean Blandford, Aalberts hydronic flow control MD for the UK and Ireland.
“The Flexfiller MiniPress embodies this commitment by combining unparalleled efficiency, compliance, and sustainability in a compact, user-friendly design.”
To learn more about the Flexfiller MiniPress and how it can optimize your pressurisation system, visit our website at https://flamco.aalberts-hfc.com/ all/catalog/expansion-systems/ topping-up/flexfiller-minipress/ flexfiller-minipress/groups/ g+c+p+a+view or contact Liam Kelly, Area Supervisor Marketing Communications, for more information.
Building & Facilities Management editorial content covers all the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.
This includes industry developments, company news, case studies and application stories, product news as well as articles from leading authorities within the marketplace.
To find out more information about BFM Magazine or to subscribe, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk
Clivet heat pumps: Today even more competitive and versatile with the hydrosplit solutions
Clivet expands its range of heat pumps, introducing split hydronic solutions with the new hydronic modules EASYTANK, EASYBOX, EASYIN and the super-compact EASYMINI
Clivet offers a very wide and articulated range of heat pumps for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production that meets the multiple needs of different types of dwellings (new constructions or older buildings, where it is not possible to intervene on the envelope), including:
* Refrigerant-Split heat pumps with ecological refrigerant R32, recognised as
* KlimaHaus QualitätsProdukte (KlimaHaus Quality Products) and available in cased,
* box, uncased versions.
* Packaged heat pumps with ecological refrigerant R32, Edge EVO 2.0.
* New packaged heat pumps
with the natural refrigerant R290 (propane), EDGE F
* and EDGE Pro, which combine excellent thermodynamic properties with a very low
* environmental impact index (GWP = 3).
This already extensive offer is now enriched with HydroSplit heat pumps, thanks to the introduction of the new hydronic modules EASYTANK, EASYBOX, EASYIN and the super-compact EASYMINI.
The combination with the monobloc heat pumps of the EDGE family, both in the R32 and R290 versions, allows the HydroSplit heat pumps to create water
split systems (HYDRO-SPLIT) that make their application in the residential sector even simpler, more flexible, safer and more ecological.
Here are all the details that characterise the new hydronic modules:
EASYTANK is a Hydronic module for basement installation, complete with 190 or 250 litre
DHW storage tank. It includes:
* 12-litre system expansion tank
* 15-litre inertial storage tank
* Magnetic deflector filter and safety valves
* Anti-burn mixer
* Electronic anode
EASYBOX is a compact hydronic unit for wall installation consisting of:
* 12-litre system expansion tank
* 15-litre inertial storage tank
* Magnetic deflector filter and safety valves
* 3-way valve for DHW production
EASYIN is the complete thermal power station built into the wall of the house with 150 litre DHW storage tank. It includes:
* 12-litre system expansion tank
* 15-litre inertial storage tank
* Magnetic deflector filter and safety valves
* 8-litre DHW expansion tank
* Anti-burn mixer
EASYMINI is a wall-mounted hydronic module complete with 50 litre DHW storage tank as well as:
* 8-litre system expansion tank
* 15-litre inertial storage tank
* Magnetic deflector filter and safety valves
* 3-litre DHW expansion tank
* Anti-burn mixer
* Hydraulic separator with booster pump
Clivet Product Manager Stefano De Boni said:
“The width of our range allows us to meet the needs of different
types of homes, and this new solution also has many pluses thanks to the combination of the EDGE family of packaged heat pumps (R32 and R290) and thenew indoor hydronic modules. This combination provides water-split systems that make application and maintenance even easier in the residential environment, guaranteeing maximum energy efficiency. The hydronic modules EASYTANK, EASYBOX, EASYIN and the super-compact EASYMINI enclose many of the components required to complete the system for both heating/cooling and domestic hot water production and management. This feature not only ensures an excellent plugand-play solution, but also makes the installation space-saving and tidy at the same time.”
www.clivet.com
Metaroom adds new design dimension with 2D floor plan export
Easy-to-use 2D-floor plan export allows users to scan any indoor space in minutes and convert it into an accurate, interactive 2D floor plan.
Metaroom by Amrax®, a 3D modelling and spatial data capture company, is providing designers, architects, construction workers and property professionals a new realm of planning possibilities with the introduction of professional 2D-floor plans.
Constituting the most advanced technology on the market, users can scan rooms or buildings with their iPhone Pro or iPad Pro* and get 2D-floor plans in minutes. Scans are instantly available on the Metaroom platform and can then be easily imported into a wide range of export options, including AutoCAD, Chief Architect, and Metaroom’s newly introduced 2D DXF and 2D Project Report PDF formats. The result is a faster, more intuitive alternative to traditional drafting tools or CAD software, enabling access to accurate 2D-floor plans and comprehensive property reports in just minutes.
The launch has been designed to provide a faster and more detailed solution for architects, designers and real estate professionals who
commonly use 2D floor plans as a tool for visualising and conveying the layout of buildings, homes, or interior spaces.
It follows in the continued success of the Metaroom platform, with an advanced 3D scanning app driven by the power of AI, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) technologies together with the automated Metaroom reconstruction pipeline. Through the app users can scan rooms using an iPhone Pro or iPad Pro. These scans are then uploaded to the cloud, generating trueto-scale 3D models within seconds. Users can then use the web application, Metaroom, to enrich these 3D models with additional information, ensuring project-specific customisation and precision.
Martin Huber, CEO of Amrax, said: “2D plans remain the foundation for project documentation, planning, and communication amongst architects, designers, real estate and construction professionals, ensuring that every detail is
captured and understood.
“We’ve received numerous requests for 2D export formats, so we’re excited to offer this option for 2D-floor plans alongside our existing 3D exports. By introducing this 2D-floor plan capability in combination with our powerful 3D technology, we are opening up new possibilities for design. This gives professionals even greater control and insight into their projects, allowing them to plan spaces and share them across various export formats easily. With this launch, we continue our mission to democratise and simplify the digitisation of interiors, ensuring the success of our clients’ projects.”
Over 11,000 Metaroom users, including key players in the lighting, wireless planning and AEC industries, have registered through the Metaroom platform and joined the Amrax B2B ecosystem dedicated to spatial design and 3D modelling.
* The Metaroom Scan app’s scanning functionality is compatible with all LiDARenabled Apple devices, starting from the iPhone 12 Pro and iPad Pro (2020 generation). However, shared 3D models can be viewed on any iOS device, even without LiDAR functionality. The digital twin is created in minutes using the RGB and depth sensors of an iPhone or iPad Pro, combined with deeplearning neural networks. The LiDAR sensors of the iPhone 14 Pro offer an accuracy of 0.51%, with a recognition range of approximately 5 meters.
The 3D model can be viewed on all iOS smartphones and accessed or edited on any desktop computer.
Unity Doors launches composite fire doors with sidelights
Unity Doors has always been committed to bringing its customers more. Now the country’s leading manufacturer of composite fire doors has raised the bar even higher, with the introduction of composite fire doors with sidelights. Available in all of their existing fire door styles and colours, and boasting all of
the dependable, bi-directional and independent third party testing you’ve come to expect from this premier brand.
Blending style & substance
In response to its clients demand for ‘more luminosity,’ Unity Doors has introduced new versatile options for its premium fire
door collection. Customers can choose from the following PVC framed glazed toplight/sidelight/ flag window combinations:
• Toplight
• Sidelight
• Flag window
• Toplight and sidelight
• Toplight and flag window
Unity Door’s new collection of solid core composite fire doors with sidelights blend reassuring fire safe features with an appealing modern aesthetic:
• GLAZED SIDELIGHTS, TOP LIGHTS OR FLAG WINDOWSFIRE-RATED GLASS
• ALWAYS DELIVERED AS COMPLETE DOORSET
• NATIONWIDE DELIVERY - FROM 2 WEEKS SUPPLY & FIT AVAILABLE
• BI DIRECTIONAL EN1634-1 FIRE RESISTANCE & EN16343 SMOKE CONTROL
Liam Kelleher, Commercial Director, had this to say about the recent addition
About Unity Doors
Unity Doors has been leading the composite door/fire door market for over 20 years and continues to be the fire door partner of choice for an extensive client base. (Housing associations, housing developers, local councils and contractors.)
Driven by innovation, the group is committed to expanding its certification and testing. Today the company is proud to offer a stylish range of both composite doors and solid core composite fire doorsets, which combine the highest fire safety standards and contemporary design. Now with the addition of composite fire doors with sidelights, Unity Doors is in an even stronger position with its premium quality fire door range, and ready to offer more choice to its customers. All third party tested and backed by excellent customer support and a comprehensive supply and fit service. (BM Trada Q Mark certified.)
“We’re really pleased to reveal this new addition to our composite fire door collection. As a company committed to innovation and pleasing our customers, Unity Doors constantly looks to new ways to evolve and excel. This launch is very much in response
to market desire, our team is often asked whether we can produce composite fire doorsets with sidelights and now we can finally say ‘yes’, we can fulfil this request.”
Find out more hereenquiries@unitydoors. com / +44 1531 822585
Building & Facilities Management editorial content covers all the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment. This includes industry developments, company news, case studies and application stories, product news as well as articles from leading authorities within the marketplace.
To find out more information about BFM Magazine or to subscribe, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk
to Unity Doors composite fire door range.
Is your building’s façade a ‘House of Horrors’?
Mild mannered Building Manager Janet spent her days not worrying about the outside, choosing to ignore all the telltail warning signs, until one fateful, dark and stormy night her façade finally cracked and what lurked beneath was a waking nightmare…
If only Janet had spoken to the team at ThomannHanry® to conduct a full façade survey, her problems could have been avoided.
This October, multi awardwinning commercial building façade experts, ThomannHanry® are posing a question to building managers which will send chills down their spines. The simple question, which many fear and dread, ‘Is your building’s façade safe?’
With a growing backlog of maintenance and repairs
being recorded, along with an increase in incidents of members of the public becoming injured by falling masonry - could your business afford the financial and reputational fall out?
“We have been conducting commercial building façade surveys for many years, but over the last 24 months, even we have been surprised at the level of dangerous and potentially life-threatening loose masonry and stonework that we are finding.” commented Mark Styles, Managing Director of Thomann-Hanry®. “Our team have removed over 750kg of loose structural and architectural materials during this period, most of which could cause serious, if not fatal, accidents if they fell on a member of the public who was below.”
An increasing danger
With an estimated 14,400 events of falling masonry and debris every year across the UK1, and as falling masonry
causes at least 5 instances of death or serious injury per year in the UK2, building management teams need to be sure that they have done enough to mitigate the potential risks which could occur due to structural façade degradation and decay.
Most recently, a restaurant in Kensington, West London had a large section of architectural console fall into an exterior dining area, with it being reported in The Standard that ‘the block narrowly missed one diner’s head, hitting her chair leg and cracking the pavement’.3
One of the key reasons for these types of incidents increasing has been the result of climate change, with the UK experiencing increased levels of precipitation of between 10-15% since 19904. The Met Office are predicting the occurrence of storms to become more frequent and increase in intensity, this can then cause cracked masonry and render to work loose becoming a potential lawsuit and reputational nightmare waiting to happen.
Why choose ThomannHanry® Surveying Services
Thomann-Hanry® has decades of experience in surveying, maintaining and cleaning the façades of commercial buildings and can help you mitigate the unthinkable from happening.
Surveys are conducted from MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) to allow for close-up inspections and the removal of any loose masonry which poses an immediate danger to the public (something which is not possible using drones). As no scaffolding is required, a survey can be quickly arranged and conducted without the additional cost and time demanded by erecting scaffolding.
Thomann-Hanry® will work with you to provide a thoroughly detailed and well documented
façade survey, which will actively identify and address hidden problems, emphasising key areas of concern, and allowing you and your team to make an informed decision on how you wish to repair or replace before they become of significant concern.
“Thomann-Hanry® has been instructed to carry out over 600 façade surveys in 2024,
and with more due for 2025, we are your perfect partner to conduct your commercial building’s façade survey to ensure it is safe, secure and fit for purpose” stated Mark Styles.
To find out more about Thomann-Hanry®‘s Commercial Buildings Façade Survey services visit thomann-hanry. co.uk/houseofhorrors or call 020 8453 1494 TODAY!
Building & Refurbishment
Laing O’Rourke and NBS join forces on Golden Thread delivery
Construction multi-national, Laing O’Rourke, to work with construction tech firm NBS for safer design outcomes
Specification and product data platform NBS, to develop contractor offer for specification development working with Laing O’Rourke and other Tier-1 contractors
New software features within NBS Chorus to improve collaboration between design and construction team
Specification revisions to be tracked and recorded through project timelines, improving golden thread management of projects
NBS to increase its library of sustainability information, supported by Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)
NBS strengthens its move into contractor market following success of market-leading cloud-based solutions for designers and manufacturer product suppliers
Today, NBS, a leading construction technology firm, announces its latest ‘Contractor Partner’, international engineering and construction company, Laing O’Rourke.
New and improved functionality within NBS’ Chorus platform will allow design managers to collaborate more closely with their design partners and manufacturer supply chains, speeding up the specification process and reducing the likelihood of construction defects.
The new addition is set to improve collaboration between design partners and manufacturing supply chains and is being supported by fresh functionality on its Chorus platform. As well as speeding up the specification process, improved processes will also help reduce the chances of
building defects. Importantly, the developments will ensure any revisions made to technical designs are then recorded correctly throughout the construction and design phase. These robust digital records will form an essential part of the wider goal of achieving the ‘golden thread’ under the new building safety regime.
In addition to improved processes around building safety, Laing O’Rourke will benefit from more comprehensive sustainability data at its fingertips, that is digitally supplied by construction product manufacturers within NBS Source. With clients’ requests increasingly focused on driving down carbon emissions, granular detail around the green credentials attached to each building project is now paramount.
Commenting on the partnership, Dr Stephen Hamil, Innovation Director at NBS, said “To comply with new building safety legislation, changes to the specification throughout the construction stages need to be digitally recorded as part of a controlled changemanagement function.
“We recognise that many large, complex, projects in the
modern construction industry are contractor-led. At NBS we want to ensure that our specification platform can work as an essential collaboration tool for tier-one contractors and their design partners.
“Working with Laing O’Rourke will allow us to refine and enhance our contractor proposition further. NBS can support projects end-to-end, continuing right through to project handover and providing a rich set of information which tracks all systems and products specified throughout the construction lifecycle.”
Commenting on the partnership with NBS, Martin Howe Technical Director at Laing O’Rourke, said “The specification has always been a key document on any project. However, now with NBS, the specification is a rich database in the cloud that is connected to the 3D model. Going forward, our partnership with NBS will allow us to work with our architectural and engineering design partners more efficiently. It will help our teams to work confidently within the new building safety regime and deliver more sustainable buildings by continuing to utlilise digital technologies.”
Building & Facilities Management editorial content covers all the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.
This includes industry developments, company news, case studies and application stories, product news as well as articles from leading authorities within the marketplace.
To find out more information about BFM Magazine or to subscribe, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk
Contractor Miller Knight ignites the spark between heritage and innovation at Nottingham’s historic Stoney Street Campus
LEADING multi-discipline principal contractor Miller Knight has divulged completion of £1.3 million refurbishment project at Nottingham College’s historic Stoney Street campus, marking a new chapter in a long-standing partnership.
Located in the historic Lace Market district, Nottingham College’s School of Art is home to over 2,500 students enrolled in art and design courses. Mansfield-headquartered, Miller Knight was appointed over a span of 23 weeks for a renovation projected to
rejuvenate one of the city’s most significant Grade II listed buildings, reinforcing the college’s status as a centre of excellence in education.
Established two decades ago, Miller Knight has built a reputation for delivering complex and sensitive regeneration and refurbishment projects across the UK for the public and private sectors, with specialised divisions working across a span of sectors, such as education, health, blue light and residential, offering tailored solutions for each.
The contractor’s resultsdriven approach, rooted in compliance and collaboration, has been central to its continued partnership with Nottingham College. This latest project involved a comprehensive transformation of four floors at 25 Stoney Street, enhancing both the building’s functionality and its historic character.
Key upgrades included the installation of energy-efficient solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and LED lighting, alongside extensive refurbishments of teaching spaces, windows,
and WC facilities. Remarkably, the work was carried out while the campus remained fully operational. This required meticulous planning and close coordination with the college’s senior management to minimise disruption to teaching and exams. Sensitive working practices were adopted throughout to ensure minimal impact on students and staff.
Dave Swift, construction manager at Miller Knight, said: “The team at Miller Knight and our key contractors are delighted to deliver another successful scheme for Nottingham College and EDGE. It was a difficult project to deliver logistically, but the entire team have worked closely with the college to complete with minimum inconvenience.
“The team even managed to bring into the programme some essential additional repairs to
Building & Refurbishment
the Grade II listed building to go above and beyond on the project, aligning the college with contemporary standards for education and sustainability, while honouring the building’s historical significance.”
Gary McGinty, director of estates and capital projects at Nottingham College, added: “We are fortunate to have such a beautiful Grade II listed building as part of the Nottingham College estate, but maintaining such a historic building can present unique challenges.
“Partnering with Miller Knight on the four-floor refurbishment has been a truly collaborative effort, transforming the space back into a high-quality education setting where our students can thrive. The addition of photovoltaic panels and LED lighting is also another significant step
towards our goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.”
Miller Knight’s ability to manage projects in live environments while delivering environmental, modern solutions has been a key driver of the team’s success across the public and private sectors. Known for its expertise in handling complex and sensitive projects, the construction firm has grown to provide comprehensive principal contractor services, enhanced by its certification as fully accredited fire protection installers.
This successful refurbishment at Nottingham College exemplifies Miller Knight’s commitment to supporting the education sector, delivering future-proofed learning and working environments that support students and staff like.
Clean is now not enough - every detail counts the Washroom
When it comes to customer experience, every detail counts, and none more so than the state of your washroom facilities. It’s not just about cleanliness; it’s about signalling to your visitors and staff that their well-being matters. In a world where safety standards are broadening to include hand and surface hygiene, the way we dry our hands has gained newfound importance.
Among the arsenal of tools to achieve this, the choice between single-use paper towels and jet air dryers stands out as a pivotal decision. Despite the allure of modern technology, studies consistently reveal a clear preference for single-use paper towels. When faced with a choice of drying methods, 90% of people chose paper towels over jet air dryers in the washroom.1
Why people prefer paper towels in the washroom?
One key factor often overlooked in the debate over hand-drying methods is how people behave. Despite experts recommending a 60-second drying time when using jet air dryers to ensure thorough drying, studies show that most individuals will only dry their hands for 30 seconds.
This reality is made worse during peak washroom traffic when people will rush the handwashing process or even abandon it altogether, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. This is where single-use paper towels emerge as champions in the battle against time and hygiene. Here’s why people want to see paper towels in the washroom:
Reduced Queuing: Paper towels speed up the hand-drying process,
reducing congestion and ensuring a smoother flow of washroom traffic. By reducing queues, facilities can make better use of space and allocate staff resources more effectively.
Decreased Noise
Pollution: Selecting paper towels over jet air dryers offers a quieter and less disruptive solution. Jet air dryers typically produce noise levels around 85 dB, comparable to city traffic or a food blender. Opting for paper towels can help facilities reduce the negative impact of noisy hand dryers, creating a more positive washroom experience that prioritises user well-being without compromising efficiency.
Cross-Contamination: Maintaining washroom hygiene is crucial for customer well-being. Choosing single-use paper towels over jet air dryers is key in achieving
this as studies show jet air dryers disperse significantly more germ particles into the air compared to single-use paper towels.
Paper towels effectively remove bacteria and moisture, reducing illness transmission risk. Proper hand drying with paper towels can eliminate up to 77% of bacteria remaining on the hands after washing2.
Maintenance Simplicity: In facility management, simplicity often equals efficiency. Paper towels offer a straightforward solution that minimises the complexities associated with maintaining jet air dryers. Jet air dryers demand daily cleaning and servicing to prevent the spread of bacteria-laden air.
Touchless tech elevates paper towel hygiene
Using paper towels enables facility managers to streamline maintenance efforts, decrease operational costs and ensure a hassle-free washroom experience. With the advance of touchless technology, hand towel dispensing can bring more efficiency and hygiene demanded today for the washroom experience.
COVID-19 changed the way we all think about hygiene. Suddenly, people were more conscious than ever about the cleanliness (or otherwise) of work surfaces, handrails, door handles, knobs and buttons, even at home. Public health information made it loud and clear: germs can be spread simply by touching things. This becomes more important when using public washrooms.
To cater for increasingly hygiene-conscious washroom users, Kimberly-Clark Professional™ has continued to innovate. The Kimberly-Clark Professional™ ICON™ collection for use in offices, public buildings, healthcare settings, and other high traffic venues, provides a highperforming, touchless dispensing system for both hand towels and skincare, including soap and sanitiser. Its seamless design and hidden towel mode minimises contact points for a more hygienic experience, reducing the potential risks of cross-contamination. You
only touch the towel you need.
For the hand towel dispenser, ICON’s dual sensor technology recognises partially torn sheets and presents a new sheet before any issues occur. The ICON™ range features four dispenser system solutions for hand towels, toilet tissue and skincare. The collection provides reliable and hygienic dispensing, ensuring paper towels, toilet tissue, soap and sanitiser are always available for end-users. Which is perfect for hygiene-aware users everywhere.
Managing efficiencies in costs and waste
In high-traffic venues, costs and waste are key washroom considerations. Changing to an automated touchless dispenser with controlled single sheet dispensing like the ICON™ can cut the amount of hand towels used by each visitor, providing efficient and quick hand drying while minimising waste.
The ICON hand towel rolled dispenser delivers 150,000-hand towels on one set of batteries, plus a 99.9% jam-free performance3. In addition, Kimberly-Clark Professional™ hand towels are made with Airflex™ compression Technology, offering superior absorbency and strength. This results in less waste as fewer towels are required per hand dry. The compression technology achieves an 18% reduction in storage and transportation. Kleenex® rolled hand towels designed for the ICON™ dispenser use up to 33% less paper fibre per hand dry than leading competitor’s standard folded hand towels4.
Adding a personal touch to the washroom
Kimberly-Clark Professional™ with its latest ICON™ dispenser collection has created a fully customisable option for organisations. Dispensing units for hand towels and skincare no
longer need to be boring, plain white boxes on the wall.
The ICON™ dispenser collection comes with customisable and interchangeable faceplate technology offering a layer of personalisation rarely seen in washrooms. A range of six designer faceplates are offered to complement every environment to help elevate the washroom experience. Or you can create your own design, to feature company branding or communicate messages to engage with washroom visitors.
1. 1Enhancing Hygiene in the Healthcare Sector with Better Hand Drying. (2023, March 8). KC Professional. https://www. kcprofessional.com/en-gb/-/ media/Global/Content%20Hub/ Documents/202739504_pdf.pdf
2. Redway, K. (October 2010). Changes in the number of different types of bacteria on the hands before and after drying using paper towel, continuous cloth roller towel, warm air dryer and jet air dryer. University of Westminster. https://europeantissue. com/wp-content/uploads/WU-Study2010-Report.pdf
3. Dispensing test conducted by Patmore Slades Horizons in September 2021.
4. Results of Hall Tests conducted by Sapio agency. July 2021.
The Benefits of Wastewater Duty Standby Pumping Systems
When gravity drainage for wastewater applications is not available, a pumping system will provide the solution.
Because the ultimate reliability of this is necessary for the effective operation of the building, for example in commercial kitchens, the optimum choice is a duty standby system.
A duty standby system consists of two pumps rather than one. If the operating duty pump should become blocked or fail, then the standby pump will cut in and take over the pumping duty.
At this point a high-level alarm will also be activated alerting the user that inspection or maintenance of the system is required. This alarm provides an audible and visual warning, either local to the pump, remote and or via BMS.
Two duty standby wastewater pumping system options are available from Pump Technology Ltd, based in Aldermaston, Berkshire who are probably the UK’s Largest stockist of this type of equipment,
The DrainMajor Duo features a pair of rectangular tanks connected with an overflow each with its own independently operated pump.
The DrainKing uses a square tank with two pumps in this single chamber.
The differences in physical design enable customers to select the best pumping system for any given application. The different footprints
(rectangular or square) help with site fit and installation.
The different ways in which the two systems operate is more subtle, but important to understand. Because the DrainMajor Duo has two separate pumping chambers, each with an individual pump, these pumps operate independently of each other. The stop/start being determined by the pumps own level float. When installed inlets need to be connected to each tank, these pumps operate as required by the inflow. If one pump should block or fail the large connecting overflow pipe feeds wastewater into the other chamber and the other pump therefore acts as the standby pump.
This system has a highlevel alarm with BMS connection, but not a control panel. Installation is easier and the extra cost of a control panel is saved.
The DrainKing has two pumps in a common chamber. The stop/start is triggered by the selected duty pumps float. The control panel will select a new duty pump after a set time for each pumping cycle. In the event of a pump blockage or failure, the control panel will select the standby pump to operate. The control panel also provides a high-level alarm and BMS connection so the fault can be identified and responded to by a maintenance team.
In summary, the two systems provide the specifier or user with choice of tank footprint, and pump control, independent, but acting as duty standby, or with the control panel alternating the duty pump, helping to extend pump life.
The DrainMajor Duo and DrainKing provide reliable duty standby system suitable for all site applications.
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 influential sustainability professionals in Government, Local Authorities, NHS, Education and Housing Associations. The PSSA offers a single level of Corporate Membership, providing a fantastic opportunity to gain recognition 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 ‘Corporate Member’ of the PSSA
• Introductory email sent to our members as the latest Corporate Member of the PSSA
• Logo - ‘Corporate Member of the PSSA’ to use on your own websites/materials
• Potential to conduct research/surveys through the PSSA
• 3 x Full Page Advertisements within either Energy Manager magazine or Building & Facilities Management magazine
• 2 x Advertising Banners to appear on the PSSA Newsletter
WHAT DOES IT COST
The current rate to become a Corporate Member of the PSSA is £1,495+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
