PSBJ March 2012

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March 2012

A greener education Prioritising the sustainability agenda

Preserving the past the best approach to heritage site work

Zero carbon A realistic option or industry pipedream?

Health cheque helping the NHS build for the future

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Cover image The new £53m Hartlepool College of Further Education features extensive use of architectural aluminium façade systems from Technal. Technal's MX Visible Grid faceted curtain walling provides floor-to-ceiling glazing for the two-storey main entrance elevation and to the rear façade which spans four storeys and encloses a food court and Learning Core.

Editor

Dawn Frosdick-Hopley editor@psbj.co.uk

Publishing Director

Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Account Executives

Welcome. . .

We all love a champion, and in this Olympic year we can look forward to welcoming a whole host of new ones – hopefully many of them representing Great Britain! To help us get into the spirit, the Department for Communities and Local Government has just announced the appointment of two housing and construction champions in an effort to shine the spotlight on the Government’s Red Tape Challenge.

Andy Turner andy@mixedmediainfo.com Adele Mason adele@mixedmediainfo.com

The main tasks for Stephen Greenhalgh and Simon Randall, will be to carry out a review of housing regulations in support of the Government’s Housing Strategy published last November. According to the DCLG, the review will help inform the scope for further reductions of “unnecessary and disproportionate red tape.”

Design & Production

They will certainly have their work cut out and judging by the reaction from senior figures in the house building industry, the proposed changes to part L of the Building Regulations should come fairly high up their list!

Chris Lilly chris@mixedmediainfo.com

Credit Control Manager

Vickie Crawford accounts@mixedmediainfo.com

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Mixed Media Information Barham Court, Teston Maidstone, Kent ME18 5BZ T: 01622 232702 F: 01622 816874 www.mixedmediainfo.com www.psbj.co.uk

How far can Building Regulations go? In this issue of PSBJ we take a look at the zero carbon debate and how its success balances on occupancy behaviour. We also explore how Keele University is putting the sustainability agenda at the heart of its academic focus; and the best approach to adopt when working on heritage sites. As always, if you would like to comment on any of the articles in this issue, or tell me about your own projects, then do please get in touch.

Dawn Frosdick-Hopley | Editor | editor@psbj.co.uk Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

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March 2012

A greener education

www.psbj.co.uk Online Enquiry 002

Prioritising the sustainability agenda

Preserving the past the best approach to heritage site work

Zero carbon A realistic option or industry pipedream ?

Health cheque helping the NHS build for the future

Public Sector Build Journal

3

Contents 08 Upfront PSBJ looks at what is involved when undertaking construction work on historic or listed sites.

14 Education Nick Foskett, Vice-Chancellor of Keele University, discusses why universities have an important role to play in carbon reduction commitment and why other education institutions should be prioritising the sustainability agenda.

18 Talking Point William Box, founder of Carnego Systems, discusses the impact of occupant behaviour on carbon emissions and how it is gaining wider recognition across the industry.

22 Healthcare

26 Acoustics & Sound

PSBJ looks at how local authority controlled company Scape is helping the NHS get the most out of its estates budget.

Julian Sargent, Managing Director of partitioning specialists Style, reviews current acoustic regulations for public buildings.

20 Ventilation

24 Canopies, Shelters & Shading

28 Ceilings

Dennis Bates, Passivent Product Manager, explains how simple additions to the building specification in schools can help a project achieve success.

How purpose-built youth shelters can help communities combat the age-old problem of teenagers with nowhere to go.

PSBJ looks at how stone wool acoustic ceiling supplier Rockfon, believes a truly sustainable future requires an all-round balanced approach.

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Public Sector Build Journal

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30 Leisure

37 Housing

Oxford’s popular ice-rink has benefited from a major improvement programme that includes a custombuilt refrigerant cooling system.

Rob Warren, Technical Manager at Celotex, explains how specifiers and developers can maintain and improve thermal efficiency in our ageing housing stock in a cost-effective way.

33 Landscaping Sean Farrell of living walls supplier Mobilane, explains the growing use of Green Screens alongside today’s busy highways.

41 Security PSBJ takes a look at how ADT has given round-the-clock security support to Nuffield Health centres for over a decade.

34 Fire Protection/ Health & Safety Notifier by Honeywell product manager, Rick Love, details why the design and installation of fire safety systems has a crucial role to play in 1458 WACO Hpg PSBJ 9.2.12 9/2/12 safeguarding public premises.

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42 Security Can IP-based security systems offer prisons smarter security? Terry Boarer from The Wandsworth Group believes 12:03 Page 1 they can.

44 Ecobuild Preview Ecobuild 2012 is set to be another great event. PSBJ highlights some of the best products and services you can expect to see.

52 Product Showcase The latest product and installation news, helping specifiers make informed choices.

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NURSERY

SCHOOL

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Online Enquiry 004 Public Sector Build Journal

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News

Fall in affordable housing development could dampen future construction activity Drivers Jonas Deloitte’s latest London Residential Crane Survey (Winter 2011) has highlighted that despite continued economic uncertainty, development activity across Greater London has continued to increase. This is most apparent in the East of London, where the Olympic Games may have acted as a catalyst for development, with these boroughs showing the highest levels of residential construction.

The report highlights that there has been a 40% increase in construction activity since this time last year.

However, there is evidence that momentum has already begun to slow.

Economic uncertainty and regulatory changes mean there has been a fall in the number of new schemes starting since the last survey. The report concludes that the recorded level of

construction activity is unlikely to be sustained during 2012.

Anthony Duggan, Head of Research, Drivers Jonas Deloitte, said: “The survey paints a fairly positive picture of the residential development landscape in Greater London – nowhere more so than in the East. There is clear evidence of a significant rise in overall construction levels at a time when economic conditions could have led to developers holding back. Our latest survey records over 11,000 units under construction in the East of London alone.

“However, 2011 has seen the lowest levels of completions in this cycle, with fewer than 8,000 new homes completed in the last year. While the current development pipeline is looking considerably stronger for 2012, we

would caution that some schemes due to complete this year are, in practice, likely to complete in 2013 or beyond.”

The fall in affordable housing development – down to less than 40% of the units in new schemes recorded in this survey, from over 50% a year ago – is another factor that could potentially dampen future construction activity.

Ongoing uncertainty about changes to the funding mechanism for affordable housing is likely to cause delays in homes being consented and completed.

The viability of future schemes is also likely to be affected by the proposed introduction of a Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), and in addition, some boroughs will adopt their own CIL charging schedules.

For more information visit: www.djdeloitte.co.uk

Tower Hamlets school wins London Mayor's prize St Paul’s Way Trust School in Bow, Tower Hamlets, East London, has won Best Built Project – Community Scale Scheme in the Mayor’s London Planning Awards.

The school was rebuilt as part of Tower Hamlets’ Building Schools of the Future Programme. Funded predominately by Tower Hamlets council, the £36m project also received £1m from the London Thames Gateway Corporation. The development was led and managed by the council, and designed by Astudio Architecture in conjunction with the students, staff

and wider community. Designed to be both engaging and practical for pupils and teachers, the building comprises three floors offering a range of learning environments. These range from corridor-free spaces allowing passive supervision to classroom spaces that can be expanded easily into larger or smaller open plan spaces to encourage a variety of teaching styles to flourish.

The building has reached an exceptional level of sustainability, achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating with an expected annual consumption of just 22kgCO2 m2.

Partners appointed for Bedford riverside regeneration Coplan Estates and Denne, part of the Leadbitter Group, have been appointed by Bedford Borough Council as development partners for the £50m project to regenerate the town’s riverside.

Denne and CoPlan are working with architects PRP, to develop proposals for the site, including a seven screen cinema, 150-bedroom hotel, 30,000 sq. ft. of retail and restaurant space (A1/A3 uses) and 150 high-quality residential units. At present, detailed

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discussions are underway with a potential cinema operator with planning permission expected to be applied for in the summer of 2012.

Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson said: “This high profile site offers a fantastic opportunity to deliver real regeneration for our town centre. We are working hard alongside Coplan/Denne to bring forward the scheme and make the most of this unique town centre riverside location for Bedford.”

News

National BIM survey - findings revealed Results from an annual industry-wide survey undertaken by NBS have provided the most comprehensive and accurate picture of UK BIM (Building Information Modelling) and its growing influence within the built environment industry. The survey was completed in late 2011 by nearly 1,000 construction professionals representing a range of business sizes and disciplines from across the industry including architecture, engineering and surveying. The key findings are: • Almost a third (31%) of construction professionals are now using BIM – up from 13% in 2010 • The number of those unaware of BIM and its benefits has halved with just over a fifth (21%) saying they were unaware of the technology and not using it compared to 43% in 2010 • Three quarters of those construction professionals currently aware of BIM predict they will be using it on some projects by the end of 2012, and almost 19 out of 20 people expect to be using it in five years’ time • 74% of those using BIM believe clients will increasingly insist on BIM adoption • More than 80% agreed BIM increases the co-ordination of construction documents, with 65% of those using the technology saying BIM delivered cost efficiencies.

The survey revealed that the perceived expense and time commitments involved in adopting BIM technology remain the main barriers to greater industry-wide adoption in the current economic climate, particularly for smaller businesses. Almost two-thirds (63%) agreed that BIM is too expensive to consider at the moment, with nearly half (48%) saying they needed to get through the downturn before looking at BIM. The full National BIM Survey is available at www.thenbs.com

Construction starts on first Sunesis school to be built in the UK Construction has begun on the first Sunesis School to be built in the UK. Warwickshire County Council has approved the tailor-made Sunesis concept to replace the Infant/Foundation stage of Oakfield Primary School in Rugby.

Sunesis, which delivers standard whole building designs at a fixed price, is a joint initiative between local authority controlled Scape and construction partner Willmott Dixon. The initiative was launched last year to meet the Government’s ‘more for less’ agenda, and will reduce the cost of a new primary or secondary school by up to 30 per cent.

A £2.2m new standardised design called Keynes has been purchased for the Rugby project, and will be installed over the coming months. The fast-track construction programme is due for completion by the new academic year this September. Flexibility in the design means that optional extras, such as an internal sliding wall, play equipment, furniture and a canopy, can be incorporated as needed.

Mark Robinson, Chief Executive of Scape, said: “Cost certainty in the current climate is critical for local authorities as budgets are being cut and more needs to be delivered for less. That’s where Scape adds real value. Through Sunesis, we’re enabling our clients to cut out a huge amount of waste so that projects can be procured and delivered very quickly, at an extremely competitive price.”

The full Sunesis range can be viewed at www.sunesis-build.co.uk along with details of standard prices, optional extras and green design features aimed at reducing running costs.

Bursaries available for RIBA MBA The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced that six £1,000 bursaries are available for RIBA members wishing to undertake the RIBA Architectural and Construction MBA at the Bradford University School of Management.

The MBA features modules on topics identified by the RIBA to connect building utility and creative

flair within a business context. RIBA modules sit alongside those that make up the AMBA and EQUIS accredited Bradford MBA. When combined, these elements will provide architects and those in construction with a solid foundation in business administration from which the economic and creative potential of design and construction projects can be realised. The MBA

has been awarded Advanced CPD status by the RIBA. The closing date for bursary applications is Friday 2 March 2012. The recipients of the bursaries will be contacted by Monday 19 March 2012.

Further information for applicants is available at www.architecture. com/mba or www.brad.ac.uk/ management/ribamba

Public Sector Build Journal

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Upfront

Preserving the past At the historic Fulham Palace site in West London, it was necessary for Crofton to work closely with both archaeological consultant Gifford, and English Heritage, to inventively install building services

Undertaking construction work on historic or listed sites is very different to working on new build projects.

Stringent reporting procedures, a high level of monitoring, in-depth collaboration with more organisations than usual, and extensive redesigns can all be expected. Crofton, the South-east based consulting engineers, regularly works on heritage sites, and Director Mark Taylor, explains why you have to be ready for anything.

V

ery different working procedures are encountered on heritage sites and it is vitally important to consider how new building services can be installed and how refurbishment works can be undertaken, without disturbing important historic buildings and structures.

At the historic Fulham Palace site in West London where Crofton has just completed work for the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, it was necessary to work closely with archaeological consultant Gifford, and English Heritage, to inventively install building services.

Fulham Palace is steeped in history. It stands on land that is of great archaeological interest and has seen almost continuous occupation since Roman times. It now houses a museum, botanic gardens and a café.

Part of the work at Fulham Palace involved renovating an old listed stable block, an outbuilding that is now two educational suites, where groups learn

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about the Palace’s history. The stable block’s listed status and the fact it had an educational end use, created significant challenges.

When restoration began, the plasterboard on the stable block’s walls was removed and unveiled brickwork dating back to the 1600s. This meant that any M&E services installed had to have a minimal effect on the brickwork.

However, the building’s educational nature meant fire alarms, appropriately located electrical sockets and data points were essential.

Creative solutions Because there were restrictions on where services such as wiring and sockets could run within the building, creative solutions had to be devised.

One was to run a significant amount of wiring underneath the student benches, which helped avoid disturbing the brickwork and kept the services concealed. Underfloor heating was also installed to avoid any wall-mounted

radiators. These were two relatively simple, but effective ways that ensured the brickwork wasn’t disturbed.

The Vinery greenhouse, another listed outbuilding in the grounds of Fulham Palace, which dates back to the 1900s, also required full restoration, and because the surrounding area is an archaeological site, there was a real challenge in running M&E services out of the building.

Water and electrical services had to be run underground. But clearly the archaeological site could not be disturbed. The issue was addressed by digging shallow 500mm to 600mm trenches, where the services could be laid with great care. This followed close liaison with Gifford and English Heritage, which both had an in-depth knowledge of the site.

Gifford advised that existing drainage systems were already in place, as it had completed prior works on-site. So the water and electrical services were run directly alongside the drainage systems.

Upfront

The recent restoration works at Fulham Palace have led to intriguing archaeological discoveries from various periods, including a Roman field boundary ditch and artefacts

periods, including a Roman field boundary ditch and artefacts.

The Victorian Leas Lift Our second example, and a highly interesting heritage project, is the Victorian Grade II-listed Leas Lift in Folkestone, Kent, which Crofton restored to its former glory. Originally installed in 1885, the lift carries passengers between the seafront and the promenade above and is one of the

Water and electrical services were run directly alongside the drainage systems at Fulham Palace. This prevented the need to dig up any new ground, which would have been time-consuming and risky on such a sensitive site

oldest water powered lifts in the UK. Crofton was appointed to undertake the work by the landowner Lord Radnor after Shepway District Council’s lease ran out. The Leas Lift is a remarkable piece of engineering that operates by alternately filling and emptying water tanks that are fixed beneath the two lift cars. It carries passengers up and down the cliff which separates Folkestone town centre from the beach.

The lift was in serious need of refurbishment and required a full but sympathetic restoration, and its listed status meant that Crofton had to liaise closely with the conservation officer from the local planning authority.

This liaison is highly important and should begin early at the planning stage.

It ensures that the restoration proposals adhere to the local authority’s planning requirements and that no changes need to be made at a later date, which can be costly and time-consuming.

In the case of heritage projects, local authorities tend to focus on what’s best for the local community as well as ensuring that history is maintained.

Shepway District Council was pleased that Heritage Lottery Funding had been achieved to restore the lift and were

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This prevented the need to dig up any new ground, which would have been a lot more time-consuming and risky on such a sensitive site.

Throughout the project, Gifford acted as the communication ‘bridge’ between the project team and English Heritage.

English Heritage was constantly present on-site, and was essentially in charge of the project, ensuring that all historic remains were preserved. English Heritage had to approve every plan that the project team proposed, before any work could be being carried out.

In some cases, Crofton had to submit M&E drawings relating to the Vinery Greenhouse and Stable Block up to four times to fully incorporate changes that English Heritage required to ensure the site wasn’t disturbed.

An English Heritage representative oversaw all work as it was carried out, to ensure everything went as planned, and to record any items of historic interest that were discovered. Clearly this level of monitoring also means that the pace of work is slower than on a new build project. However, it was necessary to ensure that work was carried out sympathetically with no disruption to this sensitive site.

As the residence of the Bishops of London, Fulham Palace has its origins in the Saxon period. Archaeological finds indicate that habitation on the land where Fulham Palace stands, date back to prehistoric times. The recent restoration works have led to intriguing archaeological discoveries from various

Public Sector Build Journal

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Upfront

keen to hear about Crofton’s initial dilapidations surveys and how it planned to move ahead with the lift’s restoration.

Honesty and detailed explanations regarding the work that’s required are important in these consultations to obtain a clear understanding between the project team and the conservation officer. For example, if there is no option but to use more modern techniques or materials this must be discussed with the local authority.

Crofton’s primary focus was to restore the ageing structure and ensure it was in keeping with the standard of the original, whilst incorporating modern technological advances and health and safety requirements.

Oak rather than concrete sleepers were sourced for the lift’s tracks and installed in exactly the same way as they would have been in 1885. Dilapidations surveys revealed that much of the lower station’s ornate timber joinery had been over-clad in plywood and was rot-ravaged. So the damaged porch structure was carefully dismantled and transported to the contractor’s joinery workshop where replacement parts were carefully assembled based on the original pattern.

Early inspection established there had been movement to the arch vault structures at the top station and tensile forces from the lift-breaking mechanism had caused the brick arched tunnels of the station to spread. Crofton addressed

10 Public Sector Build Journal

this by using traditional masonry stitching and more modern helical bar reinforcement to restore the arches.

During restoration the two lift cars were craned off the tracks to protect workers replacing the trackway. Wheel bearings were badly corroded and as the pattern of the bearings is effectively obsolete, new ones were manufactured to suit the original axles. While the cars were off the track Crofton was able to completely re-machine the wheels to provide the correct running profile.

In addition, the interlocking systems on the lift cars were upgraded, which ensures the cars cannot move until both station and car doors are secure. On completion, the lift was successfully restored and modernised while complying with all current safety standards, yet it looks exactly as it did in 1885.

The lift is now run by the Leas Lift Community Interest Group, a nonprofit organisation that runs the lift as a Folkestone attraction and a ‘living museum of Victorian engineering’.

Great Dixter House & Gardens Great Dixter House and Gardens located in Northiam, East Sussex, is a Grade I listed building, where Crofton is incorporating new building services and modern low carbon technologies.

Installations are being undertaken in a way that is in keeping with the historic nature of the building and the

t

Crofton's primary focus on the restoration of the Leas lift in Folkestone, was to ensure it was in keeping with the standard of the original, whilst incorporating modern technological advances and health and safety requirements

beautiful grounds and gardens.

The Great Dixter Estate was the family home of the renowned gardener Christopher Lloyd between 1921 and 2006. The main house dates back to the 15th century, the second is a yeoman’s house from Benenden, across the border in Kent, built in the early 16th century and moved to the Great Dixter Estate in 1910, while the third joins the two properties together with additional accommodation, completed in 1912.

The project displays a number of interesting case study examples that are typically encountered when working on an historic site. Crofton’s first priority was the main house where work has already been completed. The building’s age meant that there were a number of unforeseen challenges when new services such as heating systems and fire alarms were installed.

For example, Crofton had to use drawings from 1910 that set out where the building’s original services ran to help decide where to install the new ones. The drawings were updated in 1929 when new services were installed, but it became apparent that they never had been, which led to a number of surprises as work was carried out.

Pipework that wasn’t shown in the old drawings was regularly found behind walls or cupboards.

Working on historic sites requires a more reactive outlook than on a new build project. Original plans often have to change as work progresses, despite detailed preparation. Crofton’s engineers undertook thorough surveys prior to the start of the project, ensuring that there was minimal disruption to the building fabric in the process.

At Great Dixter House, routes for building services that were initially decided on had to be changed to prevent floorboards or walls from being disturbed. And at times, Crofton has had to run services in full view rather than risk damaging the building’s fabric by attempting to conceal them.

As with the other heritage projects aready discussed, collaboration at the design stage between members of the project team, the client and the local authority conservation officer, was important to ensure work ran smoothly.

Clearly this is a time-consuming

Upfront

Power was required in Great Dixter House but as no cables could be run along the walls, they were incorporated in wooden boxes in discreet locations on the floor

Interestingly, graffiti was discovered on the timber structure of the Great Barn that dates back to at least 1937 when local hop pickers wrote the date that they first started hop picking.

The conservation officer was keen for lighting to highlight this historic graffiti, so Crofton had to devise a way where the lighting was positioned behind visitors, highlighting the graffiti but without dazzling anyone. Power was also required in the Great Barn, but as no cables could be run along the walls, they were incorporated in wooden boxes in discreet locations on the barn’s floor.

Crofton has carried out a wide range of work at Great Dixter House. A ground source heat pump has been installed

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process where everybody’s designs need to be integrated as much as possible. An interpretation officer has also been employed by the client to put forward ideas on how the project team could best display aspects of the Great Dixter buildings to the public – in terms of lighting and highlighting areas of historic interest.

In the 15th century Great Barn, the lighting was developed over a considerable amount of time. As more details were gathered on-site, it became apparent that different lighting was required. For example, LED lighting had to be installed because ordinary electric lights which contain ultra violet component might, in time, damage the barn’s old wooden fabric.

to serve underfloor heating and provide domestic hot water to existing farm outbuildings. These have been redeveloped to provide accommodation for resident apprentice gardeners, as well as adding administration space and a public educational facility.

An array of pipework for the ground source heat pump is buried underneath the estate’s car park, which extracts heat from the earth. It was deemed the most sustainable solution because earth, a little below the surface, stays at a fairly constant temperature, meaning the system can be used throughout the year. And, because the system is underground, it doesn’t disrupt the house or gardens in any way.

Currently Crofton is installing a new biomass boiler. A heating system of this kind is considered to be almost carbon neutral and is one of the most energy efficient solutions for an historic building.

Biomass, as a fuel source, is particularly suitable as the main house has no mains gas connection and relies upon deliveries of heating oil. The biomass boiler will be discreetly located in an oast house adjacent to the 15th century Great Barn. Its fuel will be wood chip, sourced from the estate or locally, and its storage container will be concealed in a bunker beneath the ground. This will ensure that the view across the estate is not obstructed.

Working on Great Dixter House, and heritage projects in general, is a unique experience. On heritage sites design takes place as work progresses, where more about the site is discovered and unforeseen issues mean there’s a need for redesign.

Restoring and modernising historic buildings and structures is vital if the past is to be properly appreciated.

Without creative thinking, old sites cannot be modernised, conserved or refurbished and will end up decaying or becoming derelict. As a result, the construction industry’s in-depth knowledge of modern services and systems is invaluable in ensuring that some of the UK’s best historic buildings and structures are amongst the safest and most sustainable in the country.

The age of Great Dixter House meant there were a number of unforeseen challenges when new services such as heating systems and fire alarms were installed

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www.crofton-design.com

Online Enquiry 006

Education commitment to reducing CO2 levels.

Since 2008, we have been identifying ways in which we can inter-link our environmental success to provide a much more holistic approach to sustainability, from making it a part of Keele’s distinctive curriculum to encouraging staff and students to recycle and adopt a greener way of life.

This all-encompassing approach has been instrumental in our CRC success, but more importantly, has meant that we have used our unique position as an education institute embedded within a community to do much more than your average business when it comes to making an environmental impact.

Comprehensive approach

Learning for a greener life Keele University was amongst the first handful of universities to be awarded Carbon Trust Standard and has since developed a year-on-year commitment to reducing CO2 levels

Last year, the government released the results of the first ever Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) leagues tables. Only 22 businesses achieved full marks and Keele University in North Staffordshire, was the only university to top the table. Here, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Foskett, discusses why universities have an important role to play in CRC and why other education institutions should be prioritising the sustainability agenda.

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ustainability is increasingly high on the agenda for many public sector businesses, including universities. However, unlike other businesses, which traditionally engage with just employees and their clients, universities should be well aware of their dual responsibility when it comes to environmental awareness.

Not only do academic institutions have the opportunity to invest in leading research into the environment across all faculties, but we also

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have the next generation of adults on our doorstep that we have an accountability to educate in green behaviour. Consequently, environment and sustainability have long been a vital part of Keele’s strategic direction and we have worked hard to ensure that what we do is not merely a box-ticking exercise.

Keele University was amongst the first handful of universities to be awarded Carbon Trust Standard and has since developed a year-on-year

Estate management is naturally a primary area where universities can make a real difference in reducing emissions by reducing traffic on campus through the introduction of cycle to work schemes and alternative modes of transport. Where and when funds allow, it is also important to develop sustainable new buildings that are more energy efficient and improve existing facilities to reduce overhead costs.

In the past year alone, we have saved over 1.5 thousand tonnes of CO2 across Keele’s estate by doing this. We’ve also increased recycling by 34% and introduced a sustainable catering policy, which aims to increase the sales of Fairtrade goods, increased the purchase of seasonal vegetables, reduced food waste per student, and lowered water and energy usage, which also contribute to lowering our carbon emissions.

However, as an organisation spanning across 617 acres of land, it is important to regularly engage staff and students in what we are doing to encourage involvement and engender a sense of belonging in the project.

There is no point in building sustainable facilities if the people using them don’t understand how to live sustainably!

With this in mind, we have also developed an Environmental Awareness Campaign with 100 staff volunteering as Environmental Champions. We monitor campus energy usage on a monthly basis

Education

By introducing renewable technology on campus, Keele is not only helping to further reduce its carbon emissions, but is providing an environment in which renewable technology becomes a part of everyday life for staff and students alike

As an academic institution, home to students from around the world, it can be easy to operate in isolation from the local community, particularly in a campus environment. Yet it is essential that we share our learnings with the local community and allow them to benefit from the university in ways that aren’t just economic.

For us, this isn’t just housed through the hub, but also through

our curriculum. We run several undergraduate courses related to environment and sustainability, and have recently trained over 200 graduates through our Project Green and Project FIT internship schemes, which link graduates to local organisations and has helped generate significant sustainability improvements in 100 businesses.

This has in turn led our students to

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and the champions use these figures to monitor performance and communicate key developments and aims for environment improvements.

It’s is also important for universities to realise that they can do much more than the average organisation when it comes to carbon reduction commitment, leveraging faculty expertise to expand knowledge and understanding in this important research area.

At Keele, this has led to the development of a multi-million pound sustainability hub, which is both a focus and catalyst for environmentally responsible behaviours across campus and beyond. The Hub houses meeting facilities, a lecture theatre, exhibition space, study areas and a Fairtrade coffee lounge and is a living example of sustainability in action, with solar PV, solar thermal, ground source heat pumps, biomass heating and rainwater recycling, all contributing to make the building as green as possible.

Fundamentally, it is a key tool for engagement, not only with the student body, but also within the wider community – open to members of the public, including children, homeowners and businesses, who can drop in to find out more information and attend workshops.

A multi-million pound sustainability hub has been developed at Keele, which is both a focus and catalyst for environmentally responsible behaviours across campus and beyond

Public Sector Build Journal 15

Education

learn from their peers, with one group of undergraduates taking on their own exemplar project and turning their own accommodation on campus into a sustainable student house, which is open to other students to come and find out how to live greener and save energy.

Meanwhile, academic research enables universities to make real progress in international understanding around environment and sustainability, something that few businesses in the CRC table are able to contribute to the wider population.

We have five academics who sit on a dedicated environment and sustainability steering group spanning

Professor Nick Foskett Vice-Chancellor of Keele University

16 Public Sector Build Journal

estates development to environmental science and environmental geophysics. Again, our research into the area has been designed to engage with the local community so that the benefits reach beyond the academic sphere. Current projects include an outreach initiative called ‘Grey Matters’ which engages the older community in a series of lectures and interactive workshops on sustainable living.

Looking to the future We’ve also just launched a crosscurricular two-year research exercise, where academics from natural sciences and social sciences have joined together to examine the impact of social demographics on the level of community engagement in ‘green’ behaviours, such as recycling or using low-energy light bulbs.

Despite all the university’s hard work, which has no doubt contributed to our positioning in the CRC league tables, the next five years will be about improving further against measurable and challenging targets.

With this in mind, Keele has already committed £300,000 to a full assessment of wind turbine options, a renewable technology that is likely to be adopted by other campus universities in the next 10 years. The proposal will deliver a full planning package feasibility which will detail the impact of the

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Cycle to work schemes and the promotion of alternative modes of transport, is reducing emissions by reducing traffic on campus

scheme, showing and evaluating the impact of two large turbines. Historic feasibility studies indicate the potential for two 2.4mW turbines; these would deliver 70% of Keele’s current electricity demand and a potential reduction in carbon emissions of approximately 5,000 tonnes.

Microgeneration technology is already in operation on campus with solar thermal heating in a select number of halls of residence which is proving successful and we are seriously considering installing solar PV as well. Finally, we have long-planned initiatives for drilling coal-bed methane, which would mean a 20-50% reduction in the greenhouse gas impact.

By introducing renewable technology on campus, we are not only helping to further reduce our carbon emissions, but are providing an environment in which renewable technology becomes a part of everyday life for staff and students alike.

In such a large organisation, with a high turn-over of people in relation to the student body, it’s easy to see how sustainability can get side-lined in the day-to-day workings of a university. But the issue of sustainability is getting more important for future generations, and as working environments, universities are well placed to demonstrate to the rest of the world how sustainability can work in action.

www.keele.ac.uk

Keele University spans 617 acres of land

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Talking Point

© Franck Boston

Zeroing in on trouble?

Zero carbon achievement is a great aspiration, but is it the right target?

Or will achieving reliable, low energy performance across the UK, provide acceptable reductions in carbon emissions that are sustainable and affordable in the new economy? William Box, founder of Carnego Systems, discusses the impact of occupants' behaviour on carbon emissions and how it is gaining wider recognition across the industry.

A

ccording to the Book of Genesis we were supposed to be good stewards of the earth. Perhaps if we’d made a better job of it we would not need to worry about repairing the climate and a new breed of architects specialising in ‘Zero Carbon’ and ‘Passivhaus’ buildings would not have emerged. Even with their help it seems the reality of carbon neutral buildings is a utopian dream if the behaviour of occupants is not factored into the remedy.

The UK is heading towards a ‘Zero

18 Public Sector Build Journal

Carbon buildings’ goal for 2016.

Zero carbon is the official term for buildings which consume net zero CO2 emissions – but we are not there yet. Furthermore, evidence of post occupancy performance shows that residents will need the help of behavioural change solutions to make zero carbon homes a reality.

Let’s be clear, the zero carbon goal only makes sense if new buildings perform as designed – otherwise the concept is completely meaningless. The original definition

was created by the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) in 2007, however this has since changed and continues to be reworked. The eventual definition will ultimately be incorporated into the Building Regulations.

The original definition was seen as impractical, especially due to the requirement for 100% on-site renewable energy, which many urban sites rendered impossible.

Subsequently, the revised definition allows a proportion of off-site measures, termed ‘Allowable Solutions’, as-well as relaxed energy efficiency requirements. This has only fudged the issue and some say it is the result of high level lobbying by the building and construction sector.

Building envelopes would have performed much better under the original definition, which also required a greater proportion of renewable energy.

This demonstrates how UK compliance has been weakened in two respects, although the off-set issue is itself seen as something of a red herring by many in the industry concerned with prioritising demand reduction over micro-generation.

The Passivhaus standard A viable alternative to achieve greater efficiencies than zero carbon is to design and build to the Passivhaus standard. The original development of Passivhaus was not focused on targeting CO2 reductions but the rigorous criteria mean that building fabric alone achieves greater reductions than zero carbon buildings by default – when compared against

There is evidence that shows a variation of up to 300% in energy use between houses with identical family compositions

Talking Point the proposed fabric standard for zero carbon.

Although a voluntary standard, there is extensive lobbying to make Passivhaus equivalent to the forthcoming update to Part L in 2013. It will be possible to achieve the anticipated 44% reduction in CO2 emissions over Part L 2006 without using any bolt-on gadgetry. It would also make sense for Passivhaus to be an acceptable alternative to achieving the fabric standards of zero carbon.

Changing attitudes

The zero carbon goal only makes sense if new buildings perform as designed _ otherwise the concept is completely meaningless

is a powerful mechanism for changing individual behaviour. As with all things, however, behavioural change solutions need to be selected with care as some have been shown to deliver better results than others both in terms of deeper change and longterm trends.

With regard to refurbishing social housing, a different approach is urgently required to one that focuses heavily on the physical fabric. The estimated cost of £30,000 to £50,000 per unit is no longer feasible in current economic conditions. A behavioural change strategy that includes essential refurbishment in terms of insulation, draught-proofing and efficient heating, will provide a scalable solution for

organisations responsible for large portfolios, enabling them to achieve significant energy reduction targets at a viable cost without the disruption of dislodging occupants.

With regard to new build, it is of course possible for architects to create zero carbon buildings on paper. It is more questionable whether the construction sector can produce them. But is zero carbon the right target or will achieving reliable lowenergy performance across the UK provide acceptable reductions in carbon emissions that are sustainable and affordable in the new economy?

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The impact of occupants’ behaviour on carbon emissions is gaining wider recognition across the industry whereby good intentions one day are followed by relaxed attitudes the following two days – hence the ‘carbon zero waltz’. Therefore, whether it is left to the architect, developer or Government, there needs to be some post-occupancy engagement with residents not simply to monitor energy usage because that will only confirm what we know, but to bring about long-term behavioural change.

There is evidence (one study was quoted by the Technology Strategy Board) that shows a variation of up to 300% in energy use between houses with identical family compositions.

One way to harness the benefits of the good performers is to build online communities with initiatives that encourage people to engage.

Behavioural science methodologies that utilise real-time information and self-learning loops are achieving large reductions in energy use even in modern commercial buildings that were designed for energy efficiency.

Effective methodologies eliminate meaningless feeds of energy data to recipients. Instead they provide continuous high quality easy-tounderstand practical information in an appropriate form of language. In social housing they adopt channels that people enjoy using. The aim is to help people engage by seeing what everyone else is doing – this is a strong driver. The aim of the methodologies is to create new social norms because changing social norms

www.carnegosystems.com William Box has held a number of senior positions with building services and technology solutions providers. He is the founder of Carnego Systems which was formed in 2009.

Carnego’s mission is to create more energy efficient buildings by using a behaviour science approach to help occupants use buildings more effectively.

Public Sector Build Journal 19

Ventilation

Improve learning the natural way A simple addition to the building specification in schools can help ensure a project achieves both funding and Regulatory compliance on completion. Dennis Bates, Passivent Product Manager, examines some of the issues that can be easily rectified by appropriate specification.

U

nder Building Bulletin 101, natural ventilation is the preferred means of airing a school building. It is proven to enhance levels of concentration and eliminate the incidence of sick building syndrome.

It yields 15% savings on capital costs, 75% savings on maintenance costs, reduces energy consumption over air conditioned buildings by up to 50%, and eliminates the need for a separate plant room. As a result, it can contribute towards an Excellent BREEAM rating, and an A energy

Under Building Bulletin 101, natural ventilation is the preferred means of airing a school building

20 Public Sector Build Journal

efficiency rating. It is quiet, having no fans, and relies purely on natural air movement principles to function.

But occupied classrooms, however they are ventilated, are noisy, with a decibel level reaching twice that of an unoccupied room. Building Bulletin 93 sets an upper limit of 30dB ambient noise level in areas such as performance rooms or classrooms for hearing impaired students, through to 45dB in dining rooms and student circulation spaces. Yet research shows the average Design & Technology lesson for example, can reach over 70dB and that noise can transfer through vents and other openings to penetrate other areas of the building. Furthermore, noise penetration from outside also has to be considered.

Acoustic attenuation therefore has to be addressed. Acoustic testing is often a requirement for funding, with only designs graded as ‘very good’ or ‘pass’ being able to proceed through procurement and into construction.

To limit noise penetrating the building in the first place, specify acoustic attenuation to the external ventilation louvres. Passivent’s Aircool window and

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The Grade II listed Sidcot School utilised acoustically attenuated natural ventilation to achieve harmony in its new Arts Centre

wall ventilators specified with acoustic treatment, can provide attenuation up to 30dB in zones such as classrooms and studios, whilst acoustically-treated Airscoop roof-mounted ventilation terminals, for large spaces such as sports halls and dining areas, can reduce noise by 32dB. But we all remember from our school days the volume in corridors when class finishes but you are still working or sitting an exam. The issue of noise between internal areas also has to be considered.

In conjunction with leading consultancy Arup, Passivent has devised a unique solution. SoundScoop is in essence a hollow box positioned at high level in the partition wall, where its patented sound absorbing lining optimises attenuation of mid-frequency sound, typically the most problematic, with minimal drop in air pressure. It achieves an acoustic attenuation performance of up to 51dB. City & Islington College in the heart of London is just one establishment already appreciating the benefits. A double bank of acoustic chevrons in each of the 27 Aircool units in the building façade fronting the busy Camden Road, provides supplementary external noise attenuation to 30dB, ensuring students have a quiet, but fresh, draught-free internal environment in which to work.

The thermostatically controlled Aircool units open automatically to draw replacement fresh air into the building, achieving penetration depths of five times the floor-to-ceiling height. Daytime heat build-up is also automatically dissipated via the night cooling facility.

Grade II listed Sidcot School similarly utilised acoustically attenuated natural ventilation to achieve harmony in its new Arts Centre. Rob Barnes, director of HBS Architecture, which was responsible for designing the new Centre, summarised: “Natural ventilation was considered an integral part of the overall design to provide a ‘healthy’ learning environment. As the new complex is located alongside the A38, traffic noise was a major consideration at the design stage, hence the decision to include acoustic attenuation. Natural Passivent ventilation is included throughout all teaching spaces.”

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Healthcare

Health cheque The £17m Houghton Primary Care Centre on the outskirts of Sunderland, is achieving widespread recognition as the first BREEAM outstanding health facility in the UK

Award-winning Scape, is a local authority controlled company that delivers cost and time-savings to public sector construction projects across the UK. Many of its products and services enable the delivery of new build, refurbishment and retrofit development schemes that are environmentally friendly, economically viable, attractive and fit for purpose. Here, PSBJ takes a look at it's work with the NHS.

T

he NHS is a key client of Scape, which over the years, has accessed the firm’s products and services as part of an ongoing programme to revitalise many of its tired, run-down estates. For buildings such as hospitals, health centres, clinics and other medical facilities, the importance of clean, modern facilities

Mark Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Scape

22 Public Sector Build Journal

cannot be underestimated. Scape’s services continue to play an important role in creating spaces where patients feel welcomed, the overall ambiance is pleasant, and an infection-free atmosphere is in place for both staff and users alike.

But set against the backdrop of a tightening public sector purse, and Government funding needing to do more for less, it’s a challenging time for the NHS in terms of making sure that capital build and renovation projects don’t stagnate completely.

With research showing that nearly a fifth of NHS facilities in England alone are seen as unsuitable for use 1. The challenge now for the NHS is to ensure that redevelopment continues despite shrinking budgets.

That’s where Scape is really adding value – quite literally. The firm continues to make it easier for the NHS to buy in construction industry services, offering greater economies of scale having

already gone through the timely and costly procurement process to appoint suppliers.

As Mark Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Scape explains: “The public sector is a major client of the construction industry in the UK, and is responsible for procuring around one third of all construction services in the country 2. And as one of the largest employers in the world and the biggest in Europe with over 1.3 million staff 3, the NHS contributes greatly to the procurement market, spending approximately £37bn with external suppliers in buying in goods and services.4 “Our frameworks, currently worth over £2.5bn, are enabling the NHS to do more for less. We’ve made it cheaper, easier and less stressful for health authorities to buy in building and construction services. That’s got to be a good thing for the taxpayer, especially as estimates show that at least £25bn is wasted by the public sector through badly organised procurement and outsourcing each year.” 5 There are some outstanding examples of completed health projects which have been procured using

Healthcare

Outstanding facility Just down the road, the Houghton Primary Care Centre on the outskirts of Sunderland, is another scheme achieving widespread recognition as the first BREEAM outstanding health facility in the UK. Sunderland Teaching Primary Care Trust procured Willmott Dixon through Scape’s framework to deliver the new £17m facility. This now forms a focal point for community health services, providing a minor injuries unit, diagnostic facilities, 24bed rehabilitation unit, accommodation for retinal screening, outpatient clinics and healthy living services. The building also houses a wellness studio and community café.

“The health sector is a people intensive business where high

Houghton Primary Care Centre is a focal point for community health services, providing a minor injuries unit, diagnostic facilities, 24-bed rehabilitation unit, accommodation for retinal screening, outpatient clinics and healthy living services

technology equipment is constantly in operation,” said Scott. “That’s why it’s crucial for any new buildings to be designed and constructed in such a way that mitigates the vast amounts of carbon produced.”

Key features of this new facility include solar panels to heat water and photovoltaic panels to generate electricity. Ground source heat pumps create natural heat for the building, with any excess heat being exported to the neighbouring sports centre.

Exposed concrete soffits are designed in such a way as to meet infection control requirements. Finally, electric car plug-in points are located in the car park, and a rainwater harvesting system is in place to meet the demands of WCs being flushed.

Scott continued: “The green credentials of this building exceeded everyone’s expectations. The centre expects to see a 33% reduction in CO2 emissions over the course of its life by using new technologies, including a thermal wall which has been designed to provide a guaranteed internal temperature of below 25°C all year round to ensure that both patients and staff are comfortable. An added benefit of dividing up the airflow

within the building’s design is the reduction in risk of airborne diseases moving from one area of the building to another.”

Mark added: “This is a superb example of an efficient project that’s run smoothly from the early procurement stages through to completion. It just goes to show just what can be achieved when a number of parties come together with a shared vision. We hope this project will be a blueprint for future health projects around the country in showcasing sustainability at its very best.”

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Scape’s National Framework and delivered by leading construction company Willmott Dixon. The two companies have successfully worked on health sector schemes amounting to an impressive total value of £33.5m, with new projects due to start in the first quarter of 2012. Through this collaborative approach, savings of £140,000 per £1m invested have been achieved.

In the north of England for example, a new £16.4m Leisure and Primary Care Centre in Blaydon, near Gateshead, has been constructed.

This high quality building is one of the first in the UK to combine health and leisure facilities under one roof, with an innovative design reflecting the needs of the Primary Care Trust and local council clients.

Scott Corey, Willmott Dixon’s project manager, commented: “This project was so successful for many different reasons, not least because we had to overcome the challenge of erecting the new facility adjacent to a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

With the help of two expert architects, and close collaboration across all parties involved, a successful design solution was achieved. Community engagement also played a critical role in the scheme. Input from local people meant we were able to ensure that the health facilities on offer met the needs of users.”

www.scapebuild.co.uk References 1 2

3 4

5

BBC – www.bbc.co.uk/news/ health–11769182 HM Government Strategy for Sustainable Construction 2008 – www.bis.gov.uk NHS – www.jobs.nhs.uk/about_nhs.html Parliamentary Questions – www.publications.parliament. uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/ cm110512/text/110512w0001.htm Source Institute of Directors (IoD) 2010

Public Sector Build Journal 23

Canopies, Shelters & Shading

Sheltered youth Over the last three years, the Playbuilder programme committed £235m to develop 3,500 UK playgrounds mainly for the under 12's. That funding has now dried up, leaving communities to deal with what successive British Crime Surveys tell us one in three adults consider a 'significant problem' - teenagers hanging around. PSBJ takes a look at how specialist youth shelter company rekk can help.

Youth shelters can remove opportunities to offend, reducing the fear and incidence of crime and anti-social behaviour

24 Public Sector Build Journal

people back to the area encouraged the council not only to replace the court but also to add a BMX track.

So given that youth shelters can be supplied, delivered and installed from around £10,000, the case for youth shelters is an increasingly compelling one.

Police endorsement Police and government agree, that by drawing young people away from the unsuitable places they meet now, youth shelters can remove opportunities to offend, reducing the fear and incidence of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Indeed, Lancashire Police in Burnley reported a 50 per cent decrease in nuisance behaviour over the 12 months following the installation of a youth shelter. And Cirencester Town Council reported a reduction of more than half in reported nuisance incidents following the installation of a youth shelter in Chesterton.

By focusing teenagers and all their behaviours in one place, a youth shelter provides opportunities for police, the youth service and community and voluntary groups to identify and engage with teenagers, influence their behaviour and, where appropriate, signpost them into other support networks.

Steve Evans, Founder and Managing Director of rekk, the UK’s only specialist

youth shelter company, says: “A youth shelter project, developed in conjunction with the youth group, provides an excellent opportunity for local authorities to engage with them and include them, often for the first time. Although fundraising is particularly difficult at the moment, it’s an ideal subject for a grant application because it’s a quick, affordable, one-off capital spend with proven community benefits and it’s obvious to everyone when it’s complete.

“To encourage and inform the youth shelter debate, we offer a free, 20-page guide ‘6 steps to a successful youth shelter’. With over 40,000 copies in circulation and now in it’s 3rd edition, the guide has proved both popular and useful.”

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W

ith widespread reductions in funding but increasing numbers of teenagers, local authorities are under pressure not only to spend wisely but to get more value out of money they have already spent.

In addition, current planning guidance requires local authorities to improve the value of existing facilities. This is where youth shelters come in.

Adding an ‘always open’ youth shelter with wide access, good weather protection and integral safety lighting to an active area, can increase the utilisation of the existing sport or play facility and allow the local authority to extract even more community value out of it by attracting those hard to reach groups that are either unwilling or unable to take part, such as girls, disaffected young people and young people with disabilities and health and development issues. Locating a youth shelter alongside existing, active facilities also helps gain residential support as those most directly affected already accept teenage activity in that area.

Telford Borough Council found its new youth shelter at the Aquaduct in Dawley Hamlets rekindled so much interest in the neighbouring old ball court, that the case was established to redevelop it. The old ball court was in a dilapidated state and had become disused, but the success of the youth shelter in attracting young

www.rekk.co.uk

Youth shelters can be supplied, delivered and installed from around £10,000

Talking Point

“ We’re losing funding not teenagers... …so ADD a youth shelter and complete the picture ” ur o y r Fo ou th y FREEr guide e shelt .uk o c . k rek vi s i t steve.evans@rekk.co.uk

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+44 (0) 800 6120 111

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rekk.co.uk

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Online Enquiry 013 Public Sector Build Journal 25

Acoustics & Sound

Keep the noise down!

The University of Aberdeen Library featuring DORMA Moveo®, a semi-automatic partitioning system that uses innovative hi-tech materials to achieve a quality product

Julian Sargent, Managing Director of partitioning specialists Style, reviews current acoustic regulations for public buildings and advises on what questions to ask before investing in a folding partitioning system to ensure maximum acoustic performance.

T

he need to maximise available space within any public sector building has led to a noticeable increase in the use of moveable partitions. However, this improved flexibility must not be off-set by a drop in acoustic integrity.

Research has shown for example, that poor acoustics directly impact on a pupil’s ability to learn, slows recovery rates for patients in hospitals and generally reduces the efficiency and well-being of staff and visitors.

The law does not specifically lay down

Dorma Variflex partitioning pictured in-situ at the Manchester Civil Justice Centre

26 Public Sector Build Journal

regulations for acoustic performance in public sector buildings except for the Approved Document E (resistance to the passage of sound) of the Building Regulations which does focus on both education and healthcare facilities.

Supporting the Building Regulations, the Department of Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) Building Bulletin 93, provides a regulatory framework for the acoustic design of schools and covers background noise, noise transfer between rooms and reverberation times i.e. the amount of time it takes for a sound to die away.

Further recognising the importance of good acoustics, the Government set out plans under the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme to make mandatory acoustic testing for all new schools built.

The Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) also within Approved Document E sets out the acoustic performance criteria for hospitals, specifically offering direction on the design and specification of partitions. The general principles of HTM 2045 ‘Design Considerations’ are that:

• Interior environments must be protected from external noise sources • Noise from interior areas should not adversely intrude on other interior areas • Internally generated noise should not adversely affect the external environment.

Considerable advances in both design and materials used in the manufacture of today’s modern partitioning systems means that almost any location can be divided successfully, delivering acoustic integrity and comfort to all users.

The DORMA Moveo® for example, is a semi-automatic partitioning system that uses innovative hi-tech materials to achieve a quality product. As each lightweight panel is slid effortlessly into place, the automatic expansion of heavy duty rubber seals is initialised. Pressuresensitive, the seals expand along all edges of the partition to exactly the required level, creating a strong dividing wall that offers an acoustic barrier of up to Rw55dB. Similarly, the Skyfold® Custom Powerlift Partition, a fully automated system that is stored in the ceiling cavity and folds down at the touch

of a button, also features pressuresensitive seals that offer an acoustic barrier up to Rw56dB. Furthermore, the bottom edge of the Skyfold can be shaped to match a stepped or sloping floor making an acoustic divider a reality for locations such as conference facilities, lecture halls or theatres. In both these instances the acoustic variance often experienced with traditional manualwinding seals is removed.

The R’w rating refers to the ‘in-situ’ acoustic performance of a partitioning system taking into consideration the flanking paths (where sound passes over the top, around or under the primary partition) and is different to a product’s laboratory tested Rw rating. The harsh reality is that the final installation of a moveable partition will rarely replicate the controlled conditions of a laboratory as flanking will usually occur to some extent. The Rw rating is still relevant but only as a tool for comparison against other similar products rather than as a reflection of real-life installation and use.

you will enjoy a solution that meets your acoustic requirements: 1 Is the actual system manufacturer clearly mentioned in the quotation, accompanying sales brochures and other supporting documents? It is vital that you know this to ensure long-term maintenance and repairs are possible in the future.

2 Has an acoustic test certificate been provided and does it have the actual system manufacturer’s name on it? The legitimacy of this document should be established at the outset.

3 Has the system manufacturer authorised that the certificate issued can be used to support the product that has been offered? Even though a certificate has been produced, it is invalid unless the testing manufacturer confirms it can be used by the particular supplier.

4 Does the acoustic test certificate clearly state the name of an independent laboratory and that the product has been tested to the latest standards – BS EN ISO 140-3:1995 or BS 2750-3:1995?

On-site tests are meaningless and should not be relied upon. A laboratory test for acoustic performance is standardised and directly measurable.

5 Does the test certificate match the product being recommended for installation?

For instance, if a semi-automatic system is being suggested then you should check that you receive a test certificate for such a system, not for example, for a manually operated partition. Different products have different mechanisms for creating the seal and deliver a wide variance in acoustic performance.

We’ve given this checklist to a number of companies so far – all of whom have said how helpful it is in clarifying the whole issue of acoustics.

If you follow these five questions you shouldn’t go too far wrong, not only in determining the right product but the right supplier as well.

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Acoustics & Sound

www.style-partitions.co.uk

An expert assessment There are, of course, many occasions when it is clear that a proposed product will more than meet the specified acoustic criteria. Where there is potential for wider variance, it is important to employ the expertise of a qualified acoustician to offer objective, transparent advice. They should: • Survey the room to assess where flanking may occur and its severity – flanking is difficult to quantify prior to completion and determination of flanking requires a series of in-situ sound tests. However, an expert should be able to offer extremely valuable guidance pre-installation • Assess the overall quality and robustness of surrounding walls, ceiling and floors – considering construction, materials utilised and age • Detail in the site plans where action could be taken to minimise flanking • Consider absorptive treatment to improve acoustics within the room.

By addressing the matter of acoustic performance at the planning stage, many problems can be avoided.

If the following questions are asked prior to committing to a moveable partitioning system, it is more likely that

The Skyfold® Custom Powerlift Partition at Melton Borough Council, is a fully automated system that is stored in the ceiling cavity and folds down at the touch of a button

Public Sector Build Journal 27

Ceilings

Rock-solid sustainability Rockfon, a leading supplier of stone wool acoustic ceiling solutions and subsidiary of Rockwool International, believes that building a truly sustainable future requires a balanced approach to the environment, the wellbeing of people and economic prosperity.

E

very year, volcanic activity and plate tectonics create extremely large reserves of diabase rock, the primary raw material used to make Rockfon stone wool products.

Approximately 38,000 times more rock is produced by the earth than Rockfon and Rockwool use, making it a renewable resource.

Rockfon has been taking steps to reduce its impact on the environment for many years. This commitment includes constantly monitoring manufacturing processes to drive improvements in energy efficiency, water consumption, diversion from landfill and up-cycling of industrial waste. All 26 factories operate in accordance with Rockwool’s stringent environmental management systems,

28 Public Sector Build Journal

and all those supplying the UK market are ISO 14001 certified.

Rockfon products also offer great recycling potential thanks to the stone wool production process, which resembles a ‘tamed volcano’.

Rockwool stone wool is produced by melting raw materials at temperatures in excess of 1500°C. At these temperatures, organic waste is completely incinerated and can even provide a valuable alternative energy source to traditional coke or electricity.

The Rockwool Group utilises 500,000 tonnes of waste from other industries annually, which is six times more waste than they send to landfill. Today 95% of Rockwool and Rockfon production waste is either recycled internally or sold on to other industries as a raw

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Rockfon products contain up to 84% recycled and renewable content, and are fully recyclable at the end of their life

material. The Group also invested over €30m in recycling plants in 2009-2010.

Rockfon products contain up to 84% recycled and renewable content, and are fully recyclable at the end of their life. In traditional recycling, products made from recycled materials can be of lesser quality than those made from new materials. Rockfon’s recycling is up-cycling, as waste products are processed into new fibres having exactly the same qualities as those made from new or virgin materials.

Rockfon understands that a healthy indoor environment is vital to people’s wellbeing, especially considering we spend up to 90% of our time indoors.

Noise and lighting can be key factors in contributing to a pleasant environment and Rockfon has developed products that offer high levels of acoustic comfort through sound absorption, alongside specific solutions that provide excellent sound insulation.

The unobtrusive matte white surface of a Rockfon ceiling is highly reflective (8587%), making effective use of available light to provide a uniform spread. This improves the overall lighting in the workplace, which can help to reduce eye strain and fatigue. Fireproof stone wool is the basis of all Rockfon ceiling products, most of which are rated A1, the highest safety classification. In the event of a fire, they do not burn, melt or create significant smoke.

Every building is different in terms of its design and purpose. Rockfon solutions enable specifiers to realise their vision with a ceiling that boosts the productivity of occupants, delivers costeffectiveness to the building owner and contributes to the welfare of the wider community. Rockfon products have a high thermal insulation value and can contribute to the reduction of energy consumption in some applications.

Innovative, yet flexible and versatile solutions such as islands and baffles, contribute to thermal mass buildings by allowing free movement of air and are easy to install and maintain. Rockfon tiles are compliant with BS EN 13964.

They come with a 15 year guarantee and provide excellent resistance to handling and humidity.

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Online 24/01/2012 Enquiry 016 12:05 Public Sector Build Journal 29

Leisure

Chiller Thriller The well-used Oxford City ice-rink has a new lease of life thanks to a £700,000 improvement programme, which included replacing its aged refrigeration system and refurbishing the complex

Oxford's popular ice-rink has benefited from a major improvement programme that includes a custom-built natural refrigerant cooling system installed by J & E Hall which is delivering increased energy efficiencies and cost savings, as well as addressing important environmental concerns.

L

ocated in the heart of Oxford, the City’s popular ice-rink welcomes over 200,000 visitors each year in addition to hosting figure-skating competitions and ice spectaculars. It is also home to the Oxford Blues, the University of Oxford’s varsity Ice Hockey team and the City’s own ice hockey clubs.

Oxford’s ice-rink is very well used and was starting to show its age in the fabric of the building as well as the plant room. Towards the end of 2010 the council approved a £700,000 improvement programme which included replacing its aged refrigeration system and refurbishing the complex.

The phase out of virgin HCFC’s in 2010 and concerns over the availability of recycled R22 refrigerant, coupled with rising service and maintenance costs for a chiller that had reached the end of its lifespan, necessitated a

30 Public Sector Build Journal

replacement, but the Council was keen to ensure that any new system met its environmental requirements.

Oxford City Council runs the City’s leisure centres in partnership with Fusion Lifestyle, a registered charity whose primary objectives are to provide facilities and services in the interests of the social and physical welfare of local communities. Fusion aims to provide a sustainable service which enables people of all ages and abilities to access a healthy lifestyle.

“Replacement criteria included the need for a ‘natural’ refrigerant, improved energy efficiency, good leak detection and planned preventative maintenance,” explained Keith Austin, Fusion’s Divisional Facilities Manager.

By addressing the Council’s environmental considerations combined with the need for the most energy efficient solution, J & E Hall’s South

East Division secured the contract to supply a bespoke 360kW Ammonia Chiller featuring two HallScrew compressors for built-in redundancy and designed in accordance with BS EN 378:2008.

Ammonia was specified as it offers three major advantages over other widely used refrigerants. It is an organic and natural refrigerant with an ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) of zero and a negligible GWP (Global Warming Potential). It offers better efficiencies than blended refrigerant gases and ammonia’s superior thermodynamic qualities use less electricity. Plus, its recognisable odour is a safety asset as any leaks are unlikely to escape detection.

The design also incorporated variable frequency drives for capacity control to enhance the performance of the chiller at part load, which can reduce running costs by up to 20% with a payback on its cost of less than 18 months.

As the rink is in continual use, the Council had a number of stakeholders to consider and potential losses of revenue. These elements defined

Leisure J & E Hall brought in temporary chillers to speed up the ice-making process which can take up to 10 days.

On time and within budget

the works schedule and J & E Hall had to complete all the work within a three-week time frame.

When the ice was removed, J & E Hall carried out a rigorous inspection to ensure there were no leaks in existing headers, service ducts etc. All the pipe work from the brine pumps to the new chiller was replaced. The chiller was supplied on a skid and located externally but adjacent to the existing R22 plant room on a concrete base with a custom-built louvred housing that ensured it maintained the specified low noise levels required.

A cool approach The chiller cools 178m3/h of calcium chloride indirectly via heat exchangers from an incoming temperature of -8ºC to -10ºC leaving and provides cooling with two compressors operating at 360 kW using R717 refrigerant (ammonia).

Two J & E Hall’s Fridgewatch 4000 controllers were fitted to the chiller package and electrical panels were installed in an existing plant room. The air-cooled condenser used energy efficient variable speed fans and formed part of the packaged built chiller which also incorporated the two compressor packs and flooded evaporator.

The Fridgewatch microprocessor controllers which feature touch screen displays, provide the starting logic for the compressors and a control loop allows the compressors to be automatically controlled locally.

A central SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) system

provides greater control and flexibility to monitor the chiller in real-time remotely via broadband and enables the settings to be adjusted if required, via Internet Explorer.

J & E Hall featured heat recovery in its design and the heat generated has been used to supply domestic hot water with a new boiler bringing it up to the required 70/75ºC. Waste heat is also being used to supply the heated pad which prevents the ground underneath the ice-rink from freezing.

Oxford’s rink has 80 cubic metres of ice with a thickness of 4cm. To ensure it kept to the three-week time scale,

■

Oxford ice-rink is a much-loved facility and the new chiller has enabled the City Council to keep the existing rink operating for many years to come

“While the rink was closed we made other improvements which couldn’t be done with the rink open,” said Keith.

“These included upgrading changing and showering facilities, installing a new boiler, new rubber matting and improving the barriers. Lighting was also replaced with more energy efficient and dimmable switchgear.”

The rink was re-opened on time and within budget. J & E Hall ensured that the new system has been robustly designed and supported with a comprehensive service and maintenance programme via its network of 120 engineers to maximise the rink’s operational longevity. The compressors have been designed for continuous operation for a minimum period of six years or 25,000 running hours (six years) before requiring any inspection.

Bob Timbs, City Council executive member responsible for leisure, said: “The ice-rink is a much-loved facility and the new chiller has enabled us to keep the existing rink operating for many more years.”

www.jehall.com

By addressing Oxford City Council's environmental considerations, combined with the need for the most energy efficient solution, J & E Hall's South East Division secured the Oxford ice-rink contract to supply a bespoke 360kW Ammonia Chiller

Public Sector Build Journal 31

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Landscaping

Screen star

Sean Farrell of living walls supplier Mobilane, looks at the growing use of Green Screens alongside highways and explains how they provide solutions to several landscaping problems.

I

n today’s cost conscious economy, the use of bunds (embankments) alongside our highways seems somewhat extravagant from cost, time and space perspectives. Even though the effectiveness of bunds cannot be questioned, local authorities need to find more efficient boundary measures; ones which serve a multiple of functions for a fraction of the cost.

In built-up areas where space is at a premium, walls and fences are used as boundaries to many busy roads. Unfortunately, these provide an attractive canvas for graffiti vandals, a problem which costs many thousands of pounds to deal with. Brick or concrete walls are expensive and take time to build. Wood or metal fences are quicker and cheaper to install, but provide little acoustic, aesthetic or sustainability benefits, and need regular maintenance.

Increasingly local authorities are using new living barrier solutions which match the ease and convenience of wood and metal fences and which provide a strong graffiti-free alternative to walls.

Green Screens are a simple but remarkably effective concept,

featuring a biodegradable pot which holds a wire mesh ‘fence’ onto which vegetation, usually ivy, is cultivated.

The screens provide a secure barrier solution which takes up little space, is quick and easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance. The screens have considerable ability to remove particulates from the air. This is a major consideration for all local authorities who are increasingly required to reduce this form of pollution. Unlike hedges, the screens do not grow

■

In Norwich, the local authority has installed screens on the approach to one of the city's busiest roundabouts and unlike hedges, the screens do not grow above the height they are set at

above the height they are set at and once installed become more verdant without becoming uncontrollable. The ivy does not provide a canvas for graffiti, is more attractive, and has obvious environmental benefits, even attracting bees which are in serious decline.

In Norwich, Green Screens have been used to positively affect driver distraction and the habit of rushing roundabouts. The local authority has installed screens on the approach to one of the city’s busiest roundabouts intended to restrict drivers’ views of the opposite carriageway as well as the roundabout ahead, encouraging them to reduce their speed as they approach the roundabout. Installed by CityCare, the screens were simple to install and are growing very well. They provide an instant barrier after installation but become more verdant to provide an even more attractive and sustainable solution. Importantly, the screens will deliver many environmental benefits at the site and will not attract graffiti. This technique is becoming an increasingly commonplace and effective way of reducing collisions at similar locations across the UK. A high-risk collision site on the A574 outside Warrington has also been made safer thanks to the installation of Green Screens. 140 of the 6ft (1.8m) screens have been installed on the approaches to the roundabout, again serving to obstruct the view of the roundabout as motorists approach, and encouraging them to slow down.

www.mobilane.co.uk

3m screens used in a long run on a highway. They provide an instant barrier after installation and become more verdant over time

Public Sector Build Journal 33

Fire Protection/Health & Safety

The Grade II listed Victoria Baths was the subject of a major £25.5m refurbishment programme by Camden Council which included the fitting of a Notifier ID 3000-based fire alarm system

Public protection Notifier by Honeywell product manager, Rick Love, explains why the design and installation of fire safety systems has a crucial role in safeguarding the UK's wide range of public buildings.

34 Public Sector Build Journal

The Grade II listed building, which opened in 1901, was the subject of a major £25.5m refurbishment programme

by Camden Council and has been upgraded to provide wide-ranging leisure and recreation facilities internally, at the same time retaining all the historic features of the original Victorian building.

The comprehensive fire alarm system is controlled by an ID3000 fire panel, interfaced to the VA/PA system including voice alarm, public address, background music and audio induction loop systems.

In addition, air sampling detection was incorporated to protect high-level areas such as the fitness halls and difficult

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W

hether it’s a visit to a 5-star hotel or a routine trip to the local market or leisure centre, we automatically place our trust in the building’s owner or operator to sound the alert in the event of a fire. However, providing the fire-safety protection we take for granted can be a complex process for the specialist fire system manufacturers and contractors tasked with equipping our public spaces.

In particular, the diverse nature of public buildings means each can bring a multitude of considerations. For example, older public buildings can be inherently complex in structure. Similarly the sheer scale of other public sites presents distinct challenges in ensuring early warning of fire-related incidents.

Notifier by Honeywell Gold Partner, BBC Fire Protection, is well accustomed to the varied structural and logistical requirements of large and multi-site buildings. One of its recent projects involved fitting a Notifier ID 3000-based system as part of major refurbishment to the historic Victoria Baths in Camden, North London.

environments such as the pool hall and ‘wet’ areas.

Over 200 call points and automatic fire detectors were installed by BBC Fire Protection, together with more than 200 speakers, to give early detection and alarm of fire conditions. A disabled refuge, drowning alarm and WC alarms also provide personal security and safety.

Specialist expertise on the part of both the fire systems manufacturer and fire specialist contractor is also essential when creating a solution for the UK’s many different shopping centres. The chosen system must satisfy diverse requirements of the centre operator, main contractor, owner of each individual trading unit, and last but not least, the shopper looking for a safe and convenient buying experience.

In recent years, Notifier by Honeywell has worked closely with its fire specialist design and installation partners on a number of major new and redeveloped shopping centres. In each case, the common goal has been to create a fire safety environment, which meets the different requirements of the various stakeholders, both in terms of ease of installation and on-going operation and maintenance.

One increasingly important element in developing solutions for shopping centres is the inclusion of public address/voice alarms (PAVA systems).

With this in mind, each of the Notifier systems installed incorporates a sophisticated voice alarm and public address system that can be used for the provision of music and other advertising and advisory messaging as well as voice-controlled instructions on how to leave the building in the event of an emergency.

With many lives at stake, it is crucial that life safety solutions meet all the diverse requirements of the public buildings we rely on for work and leisure.

Fortunately, advancements in life-safety technology, combined with the specialist skills and experience of fire specialist contractors, make meeting the demands of even the most complex buildings achievable, and will continue to ensure the public can remain confident in the buildings they use.

The Victoria Baths opened in 1901

www.notifierfiresystems.co.uk

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With buildings responsible for almost 50% of the UK's energy consumption and carbon emissions, it has become even more pressing to refurbish and make sustainable our ageing social housing stock to make them warm and weathertight. Rob Warren, Technical Manager at Celotex, explains how specifiers and developers can maintain and improve thermal efficiency in a cost-effective and reliable way.

I

n the current economic climate there is a great emphasis on the installation of renewable energy technologies to create thermally efficient or low carbon homes.

However, as with new builds, the same principles apply for refurbishment projects – a fabric first approach will make sustainability achievable. Rather than being seduced by expensive and often unproven technologies, to get the fabric of the building right will make all the difference in the longterm. So, as central Government, local authorities and housing associations search for new ways to improve the energy efficiency of the nation’s underperforming buildings – the improvement of the building’s fabric is crucial.

The Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) has been created as part of the government’s Home Energy Saving Programme and has been designed to promote a ‘whole house’ approach in terms of the installation of innovative energy efficiency measures. It will ensure that at least 1.5 tonnes of CO2 will be saved per household. For existing

solid wall homes, this means reducing heat losses particularly through the introduction of much higher standards of insulation.

Raising the bar The city of Nottingham offers an excellent example of how local authorities are committed to raising

the energy efficiency standard of their housing stock. Arms Length Management Organisation (ALMO), Nottingham City Homes, aims to spend tens of millions of pounds by 2015 improving the city’s 29,000 council homes. The Decent Homes programme, known locally as Secure Warm Modern, is using a

▼

Issue 14

A 'whole house' approach in terms of the installation of innovative energy efficiency measures, will ensure that at least 1.5 tonnes of CO2 will be saved per household

Public Sector Build Journal 37

Housing

38 Public Sector Build Journal

With its plasterboard finish, Celotex PL4000 offers the installer speed of installation and long-term energy savings

now been developed to improve the thermal performance of up to 800 council homes in the Aspley area of Nottingham through the application of Celotex insulation. The project is being funded by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE), through CESP.

The viability of retrofitting The approach implemented by Nottingham City Homes has clearly demonstrated the viability of retrofitting domestic homes with innovative insulation products such as Celotex PL4000. A cost-effective solution, combined with speed and ease of installation, along with proven tangible results in terms of improved thermal performance, looks like a winning combination and ultimately a

solution that can help transform a deprived area into a low carbon community.

The need to refurbish and make sustainable the nation’s social housing stock has become more pressing in recent years considering the increased costs in buying land and developing. Celotex is well placed to take advantage of these opportunities, having the most appropriate solutions for any refurbishment project. The company’s ‘fabric first’ scheme for Nottingham City Homes on some of our existing housing stock, is testament to what can be achieved to create more thermally efficient homes in a cost-effective way.

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portion of this funding to improve the thermal efficiency of Nottingham’s council homes.

Before improvement work started, Nottingham City Homes (NCH) commissioned regeneration specialist Frank Haslam Milan (FHM) to carry out an on-site analysis of the thermal performance of an end terrace property in the Aspley area of the city. Using the Thermal Performance Report of this trial house, NCH and the Nottingham Energy Partnership (NEP) came up with an energy/carbon emission improvement strategy for the two-storey property, designed to improve the thermal performance of the house. This strategy incorporated a range of insulation products from Celotex.

Thermographic images were taken before and after to see how the application of Celotex insulation had improved the thermal performance of the property. The ‘before’ images indicated heat loss through the walls, roof and around the edging of the windows. Refurbishment work therefore included installing insulation to the external solid brick walls, window reveals and roof voids.

High performance Celotex PL4000 was specified in thicknesses of 65mm and 20mm for the solid brick walls. Manufactured with rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR) bonded to 12.5mm tapered edge plasterboard, Celotex PL4000 offers the installer maximum flexibility. With its plasterboard finish, it is ideal for refurbishment projects where speed of installation and long-term energy savings are of paramount importance.

FHM also used 12mm thick Celotex TB4000 for the window reveals. With low emissivity foil facings, the 12mm insulation board is the thinnest PIR available and is specifically designed to eliminate localised thermal bridges and further reduce heat loss through the building fabric.

The ‘after’ thermal images show how the installation of the new insulation has had a significant positive impact on the reduction of heat loss in the property. Following a careful assessment of the trial home, a programme of work has

www.celotex.co.uk

30 RS YEA

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Security

ADT has been servicing Nuffield Health clubs providing round-the-clock support and consulting services to all its branches for over a decade

Securing your health Nuffield Health runs over 50 wellbeing centres across the UK offering a range of facilities geared to helping members lead a healthy and active life. Round-the-clock security support and consulting services are provided by ADT, keeping premises, staff and members safe and secure. a significant role in supporting working operations by mitigating risks in areas such as swimming pools and reception areas. Security staff are then able to take pre-emptive or reactive actions without disturbing other members.

Another integral aspect to Nuffield Health’s security strategy is the use of an EMS radio-based care system, providing cutting-edge emergency response activation for members who find themselves in need of assistance. The lone worker devices can be pressed by members if they wish to communicate with staff and alert them to an issue in a closed-off area, such as a treatment room or sauna. They are then able to take appropriate actions to deal with any unfolding situation.

Nuffield Health is an excellent example of long-term satisfaction and belief in ADT’s offerings and service. This is partly due to a consistent standard of service as well as a definitive breadth of technical knowledge spanning over 10 years.

ADT continues to work closely with Nuffield Health branches when assessing changing security needs, with a view to guaranteeing custom-designed solutions are in place to tackle day-to-day challenges with maximum efficiency.

“Nuffield Health has a long-standing relationship with ADT, channelling its expertise in changing technology trends over the years with a view to ensuring we remain up to speed on the most appropriate solutions available to us,” explains Matt Terry, Technical Service Manager for Nuffield Health south region. “Our trust in ADT’s service deliverables and industry knowledge, has guaranteed the durability of this nationwide project.”

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N

uffield Health’s nationwide network of health clubs require safe and secure environments for members, staff and guests. With such a nurturing customer-focused business goal, ensuring member safety while making use of the facilities is of the utmost importance for Nuffield. Therefore it took the decision to work with ADT and values its contribution to its network of health clubs.

ADT has been continually servicing Nuffield Health clubs providing round-theclock support and consulting services to all its branches for over a decade.

As a nationwide deployment, ADT has tailored fire, intruder, CCTV and emergency response systems to suit each branch’s individual requirements and size.

ADT has fitted a fully operational and integrated fire and intruder protection system in the majority of branches and using Redcare’s signalling offering, this solution provides an efficient reactive emergency response in the event an alert is received.

Depending on the size of each site, ADT has implemented CCTV cameras which are monitored on-site by Nuffield’s operational staff. These cameras play

www.adt.co.uk

ADT has fitted a fully operational and integrated fire and intruder protection system in the majority of Nuffield Health clubs

Public Sector Build Journal 41

Security

It is essential that security and safety for both prisoners and staff must be maintained effectively at all times

Prison security systems need to factor in safety considerations and enable accurate reporting of any incidents. Here, Terry Boarer from IP technology specialist, The Wandsworth Group, explains how IP-based security systems may be able to answer all of these requirements.

O

ne of the key advantages of IP technology for prison security systems is that it combines the reliability of a hard-wired system with high levels of flexibility, allowing the system to be reconfigured to meet the changing needs of the prison without making any physical changes to the installation. For example, the prison management team would be able to choose to change the number or location of cells under the responsibility of a prison officer team to reflect staff or prisoner number levels. Unlike a wireless system however, there would never be any issue with signal reliability, ensuring that every call was registered, whether it was a prisoner calling for attention or a prison officer calling for assistance.

Another major advantage of an IP-based system is the data logging capabilities that IP technology enables, as this could provide automatic recording of accurate call location, frequency and

42 Public Sector Build Journal

duration information. Not only would this comply with Home Office data logging regulations, it would also mean that the prison team had real-time access to valuable management information which could help them track patterns of nuisance calling, or plan staff deployment more effectively. What’s more, following any serious incidents within the prison, the data logging capabilities would provide valuable evidence for any enquiry.

It’s worth noting too that an IP-based system could also open up integration possibilities with other communication tools such as pagers, DECT telephones and even wireless PDA devices.

IP cell Call, the IP-based prison security system recently developed by The Wandsworth Group, combines a touch screen display unit in the wing office with a cell call unit within every cell and a corridor re-set unit outside each cell. There are multiple call levels to suit varying security levels and each

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Smarter prison security

one triggers both a visual and an audible indicator on the display unit with different sounds for each call level.

When a prison officer attends a call, a presence key is turned in the corridor unit to indicate attendance and an alarm will be triggered if this is left in place for longer than the pre-set maximum time period.

The officer can call for assistance by using the call button inside the cell and this will automatically trigger an emergency call if the presence key is still in place.

All of this activity is automatically recorded on the Event Logging System (ELS) which can also be used to track staff around the building thanks to a ‘pegging system’ which records officers’ locations every time they press the cell reset button on the corridor unit when a call is not active. The system even offers integration possibilities with a wireless staff tracking device that allows prison officers to send out a personal distress call simply by pressing a panic button on the back of their identity badge. The signal from their unique-user ID would then be registered on the call display panel using location logic technology to pinpoint the officer’s exact location in real-time.

As the UK continues to face the challenges of an overstretched prison service, technology has a key role to play in helping prisons run more smoothly and deliver Government requirements on reporting and best practice. The flexibility, integration and data capture possibilities that IP technology offers, make it an ideal fit with these aims.

www.wandsworthgroup.com

When a prison officer attends a call, a presence key is turned in the corridor unit to indicate attendance and an alarm will be triggered if this is left in place for longer than the pre-set maximum time period

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ExCeL, London. Tuesday 20 –Thursday 22 March 2012 The conferences, the seminars, the products, the people.

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Online Enquiry 024

Ecobuild Preview

Ecobuild ExCeLs Following an outstanding debut at ExCeL in 2011, Ecobuild 2012 is set to be another exciting event, showcasing the very best in sustainable design, construction and the built environment.

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et to be even bigger than ever, Ecobuild 2012 from March 20-22, with over 1,500 suppliers, offers visitors the latest and best in everything from building materials to micro-renewables, from rainwater harvesting systems to interiors.

From big names, to up and comers in the Green shoots entrepreneurs’ zone, plus an outstanding conference programme, Ecobuild 2012 has something for everyone.

The Ecobuild three-day, three-stream conference, sponsored by the UK Green Building Council, focuses on new thinking and challenging ideas, as well as the pressing issues affecting Government policy and the construction sector – how to keep the industry profitable, remain committed to a low carbon built environment, and manage the country’s economy through a low growth period with record levels of public debt. Macro themes covered include ‘Beyond construction: achieving a sustainable future’, ‘Making sustainable construction happen’ and ‘Design, architecture & sustainability’.

Leading the speaker line-up are renowned commentators including Sir John Beddington, Monty Don, Janet

Don’t forget to visit 44 Public Sector Build Journal

Street Porter, Greg Dyke, Tony Juniper and Angela Brady, covering topics as diverse as ‘Growing out of trouble – how social enterprise can help restore society’, ‘People and the planet’ and ‘Collaborative consumption’.

A topical addition to the programme for 2012 is an ‘Olympics special’ hosted jointly by the Construction Products Association and BRE in which Construction Minister, Mark Prisk, and Peter Bonfield, Adviser to the Olympic Delivery Authority on materials procurement, consider how, having delivered ‘the greenest games ever’, the learning from the development of the Olympic Park can be put to use in other developments.

More applied is Ecobuild’s seminar programme which delivers practical advice from experienced practitioners through over 130 sessions including ‘Energy & innovation in buildings’, ‘Better through BIM’, ‘Buildings in use’, ‘Future energy’ and ‘Sustainable by design’.

Visitors looking to get their hands dirty can do so at a dozen or more live attractions – literally in the case of Ecobuild’s ‘Natural, traditional… sustainable’ which demonstrates cob

and its sister publication

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Ecobuild 2012 will be showcasing the very best in sustainable design, construction and the built environment

wall building alongside straw bale construction and carpentry techniques.

Elsewhere on the exhibition floor, Renewable Heat Focus sponsored by Vaillant, offers daily talks and one-to-one advice on how best to benefit from the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) plus a showcase and working models of the latest technology including solar thermal, biomass and heat pumps.

Renew, sponsored by Knauf Insulation, provides practical advice on one of the most important aspects of achieving an energy efficient building – a highly insulated, airtight building envelope – through daily live demonstrations.

Ecobuild’s Solar hub, sponsored by Solarcentury, demonstrates how the installation of solar PV still offers attractive rates of return via the UK Feed-in Tariff, despite adjustments to the Government’s incentive scheme through a series of talks and presentations, plus one-to-one advice. Visitors will get practical guidance on how to specify the most appropriate system for the best results.

In addition to the main programme, Ecobuild’s exhibitors and partners will be offering a variety of events including the TRADA timber tours, the BREEAM awards, sessions from UKTI on international opportunities, and a programme of sessions in the UK-GBC’s ‘big tent’ on the exhibition floor.

Ecobuild is free to attend when you register at www.ecobuild.co.uk where you can also create your own itinerary using Ecobuild’s online planner. See you there!

The Ecobuild three-day conference programme will focus on new thinking and challenging ideas

at Stand N10!

Ecobuild Preview

Larger presence for KNX

KNX UK has a larger presence than ever at Ecobuild 2012. The Association is exhibiting on Stand S3710 where its KNX Pavilion will showcase the activities of both the Association and many of its UK members. These include Wieland, BEG, Theben, Somfy, Wago and Schneider whose KNX products and services make a major contribution to the creation of an energy efficient, sustainable built environment. Visitors to the stand will be able to find out full details about the KNX Standard for Home and Building Control and see how fully integrated commercial and residential buildings can be created using KNX technology.

admin@knxuk.org enq 025

Sustainable window systems Unique Window Systems will be on Stand N1100 exhibiting its ranges of high-quality, sustainable PVC-U and architectural aluminium windows, doors and shop fronts for the commercial market, including its own Tufacade curtain walling system developed specially for this sector. The company will be displaying its Ecoprofile PVC-U windows, made with high post-consumer recycled PVC-U content that fulfils demand for increasingly sustainable building products.

Visitors can also learn more about the company’s services for architects, specifiers and developers, which include Auto-CAD design, project management through to skilled and experienced fitting teams. sales@uniquewindowsystems.com enq 026

Setting new standards Dura Composites will announce on Stand S1048 that it has secured Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) sustainability accreditation and established the sustainability credentials of its market-leading wood plastic composite (WPC) products such as Dura Deck.

The company has also pledged to donate all the wood composite decking from its 9m x 4m stand and is inviting charities local to the company’s Clacton offices to propose suitable uses. Stuart Burns, CEO, said: “We’re going to make sure we recycle our products to help local charitable causes. We hope other exhibitors info@duracomposites.com enq 027 will stand up for charity too.”

Latest ground source heat pump On Stand S3210 NIBE Energy Systems Ltd., will be launching its new F1345 advanced ground source heat pump specifically designed for large residential and commercial installations. The new NIBE F1345 has the NIBE multi-coloured TFT screen which provides a user-friendly, intuitive control panel that let’s you set a comfortable indoor climate and schedule the heating system. NIBE will also be exhibiting a complete range of the company’s systems designed to supply energy for central heating and hot water supply using exhaust air from the home, from air in the outside atmosphere and from ground sources and will also include NIBE Solar Thermal. info@nibe.co.uk enq 028

Innovations in bathroom drainage The latest innovation in drainage solutions for bathrooms and wet rooms will be featured by wedi at this year’s Ecobuild on Stand S210. In the Fundo Riolito Discreto channel drainage system, wedi has developed a special drainage adaptor that moves water drainage from the floor to the wall. Specifying Discreto now means the channel can simply disappear into the wall. The design can be further enhanced with wedi building boards enabling the drainage adaptor to be made into a storage area for shower accessories, a seating area or a complete front wall, depending on sales@wedi.co.uk enq 029 the individual requirements.

Premier efficiency Johnson & Starley will be launching its new corporate identity on Stand N2300, as well as highlighting the latest examples of its heating and ventilation product ranges. These will include the company’s Q-Vent HR 260 and Q-Vent HR160 whole house mechanical ventilation systems which are up to 95% efficient and meet the requirements of developers, building towards the Code for Sustainable Homes. Also on display will be The C300 Premier central extract system, designed for whole house ventilation and which is capable of achieving airflows of 300m3/hour.

marketing@johnsonandstarley.co.uk enq 030

Public Sector Build Journal 45

Ecobuild Preview

The GREEN Floorzone covers every aspect of flooring installation, from substrate through to final floor finish

Showcasing at Ecobuild 2012 will be the GREEN Floorzone, Flowcrete UK's innovative, single-source flooring package, which sets out to be one of the most sustainable and complete flooring solution available to specifiers.

R

epresenting years of research and development, The GREEN Floorzone covers every aspect of flooring installation, from substrate through to final floor finish, with the option of underfloor heating and soundproofing built-in.

The sustainable resin floor finishes include options designed to cope with the rigours of commercial environments, such as the seamless terrazzo Mondéco Mirrazzo, which can contain over 50 per cent recycled material and Mondéco Crystal Ice, which contains recycled glass and mirrors, reducing the need for lighting.

The GREEN Floorzone also features products from Flowcrete’s market-leading and newly enhanced Isocrete Floor Screeds range, given a green makeover with a new formulation free from Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and, can contain up to 40 per cent recycled materials.

46 Public Sector Build Journal

An optional element of The GREEN Floorzone involves installing an Isowarm underfloor heating system, which offers energy efficient savings of up to 30 per cent compared to conventional heating systems. Isowarm offers targeted, zoned heat, which is located out of sight underfoot, eliminating the risk of burning and freeing up space from the clutter of radiators.

Another optional feature which represents the first stage of the programme, is Isocrete Acoustic Foam, which reduces sound transfer between floors in multi occupancy healthcare environments, again aiding comfort and supporting privacy.

The green performance of all these individual elements is measured in eight key areas; environmental efficiency, recycled content, manufacturing efficiency, transport, installation impact, durability, end of life alternatives

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Single-source flooring solutions

and third party verification.

Alan Dean, Managing Director of Flowcrete UK, said: “Ecobuild is the perfect event to showcase The GREEN Floorzone, which heralds a new era in flooring – delivering a choice of products with extensive performance and sustainability credentials as standard.

“We are excited by what we have to offer and we believe it will transform the specification process of flooring systems in the UK and allow architects and specifiers to seamlessly meet the most stringent green construction ratings, such as BREEAM. “The single-source nature of The GREEN Floorzone also offers further sustainability benefits, with all products arriving on site from one source, with no wastage, and just one contractor responsible for the entire installation – all covered by one Flowcrete warranty.”

For more than 30 years, Flowcrete’s systems have been specified by architects and construction professionals for some of the world’s biggest projects. They have been used extensively in areas including hospitals, airports, stadia, hotels, residential sites, offices, shopping centres, schools, colleges and universities and within this timeframe, millions of square metres of the systems have been installed.

Visit Flowcrete on Stand S654.

uk@flowcrete.com enq 031

Ecobuild Preview

Raising awareness of British tile industry Leading UK tile manufacturer, British Ceramic Tile, will be exhibiting at Ecobuild for the first time in 2012. Showcasing both its latest product ranges and its eco credentials, British Ceramic Tile is looking to increase awareness of the tile industry in Great Britain.

Currently 80% of the UK tile market is imported, which British Ceramic Tile is aiming to challenge with the introduction of new designs and tile sizes. The company is committed to sustainability and reducing its impact on the environment. It sources 85% of its raw materials locally to the manufacturing facility in Devon and recycles everything where possible, including rainwater, back into the production process. Its efforts earned the company ISO14001 accreditation in December 2008.

An additional kiln was introduced in September 2011 to increase the factory capacity, but it has had no significant increase in CO2 Emissions, due to a change in working patterns where kilns can be placed in ‘idle’ mode when not in use.

100% of process waste tile material is recycled back into the tile body as pitcher (13% of tile body). British Ceramic Tile consumes more waste than it produces and is consistently reducing the waste tile stockpile. In 2011, approximately 14,500 tonnes

of waste including tile waste, metal, cardboard and wood, were recycled within the manufacturing facility.

Products on display on Stand S316, will include the recently launched Dorchester 30x60 and Brighton ranges, new floor tiles and a selection of ranges from the Laura Ashley and Studio Conran collections as well as several other existing and popular ranges such Dartmoor Naturals (above).

marketing@britishceramictile.com enq 032

Alliance offers construction solutions On Stand number N1110 Ancon Building Products will address the important issue of heat loss through thermal bridging. It will feature Ancon’s extensive range of low thermal conductivity cavity wall ties, which includes the unique basaltfibre TeploTie. Also on display will be a range of Thermal Breaks for use at other locations where the insulated building envelope is interrupted, such as balconies and brickwork support brackets. Ancon will be joined on its stand by leading brick manufacturer Ibstock.

This Ancon-Ibstock alliance, specifically for Ecobuild 2012, brings together two areas of expertise from within the masonry sector.

info@ancon.co.uk enq 033

Zinc shows wide capabilities Zinc market leader VMZINC will be on Stand N1520 exhibiting its pre-weathered façade, roofing and rainwater systems. In addition to recent high profile projects such as Titanic Belfast, the company has also supplied zinc fabricated to bespoke requirements for the Mint Hotel Tower of London and the world renowned Wallace Collection in Manchester Square. This entailed provision of oriel windows (now used as vents) and skylights fitted at the zinc ridge and above a traditional slate mansard roof.

vmzinc.uk@umicore.com enq 034

Green windows Roof window manufacturer FAKRO GB will be exhibiting on stand N1530.

The company’s products have been used in the restoration of Hornington Manor, a 250-year old, Grade II listed farmhouse near York. The creation of an eco-farm is the vision of Simon Spink, Managing Director of bed maker Spink and Edgar. FAKRO supplied electronically and manually operated windows for installation in green roof upstands together with conservation style windows for clay pantile roofs on converted outbuildings. All products had to meet high standards of sustainability and FAKRO products met the criteria set for U-value, timber quality and sourcing, BBA certification and design.

fakro@web-response.co.uk enq 035

Public Sector Build Journal 47

Ecobuild Preview

Diverse drainage

Dallmer Ltd., one of the country’s innovators and specialists in draining water from around buildings, will be showcasing a wide range of its products on Stand S30 at Ecobuild 2012. On display will be products from the company’s hugely diverse range, all of which are made just 300 miles from the ExCel venue meaning a major reduction to the carbon footprint generated by transport. On show will be Dallmer’s enhanced CeraLine linear shower drain range, RenovaDrain, to reduce the cost of roof refurbishment, as well as StauSafe flood protection products.

info@dallmer.com enq 036

The future is on the Horizon After 18 months of development and using the latest technology, Wolf Systems will be launching groundbreaking new software on Stand S1554 delivering new opportunities for manufacturers involved in timber engineering construction. The new software utilises Autodesk’s Revit platform and opens up the possibilities of collaborative BIM working for timber frame manufacturers. Wolf Systems will also be exhibiting the company’s easi-joist metal-web product, which is now often found employed in place of solid timber studs in the walls to timber frame systems, as well as in both flat and pitched roofing construction.

karl.foster@wolfsystem.co.uk enq 037

Recognising regulations BSRIA provides an independent nationwide, one-stop-shop to prove compliance with Building Regulations. Its accredited services along with experience from thousands of tests, help all types of buildings pass first time and ensure certificates are recognised by Building Control. Furthermore, BSRIA Instrument Solutions can provide a full range of UKAS calibrated instrumentation for either hire or purchase to help demonstrate a system performance or a building’s fabric integrity. BSRIA can also offer other supporting services which include a thermal imaging service for the evaluation of a building fabric to look for any abnormalities such as thermal sales@bis.fm enq 038 bridging. Visit BSRIA on Stand N1620.

New generation of roof insulation Dow Building Solutions, manufacturer of STYROFOAM extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation, will use Ecobuild 2012 to introduce its latest generation insulation for inverted roofing, XENERGY SL, on stand N1251. XENERGY offers the established properties of STYROFOAM, including durability and moisture resistance, alongside significantly improved lambda values thanks to the addition of infrared technology.

The launch comes hot on the heels of recent improvements to thermal conductivity across the existing STYROFOAM-A range. Thermal conductivity of STYROFOAM-A, which includes ROOFMATE-A, FLOORMATE-A and PERIMATE DI-A products, has already been improved by 0.002W/mK, enabling users to achieve lower U-values from the same thicknesses of insulation.

FKLMAIL@dow.com enq 039

Focus on sustainable flooring On Stand S534, Gerflor will be previewing the most sustainable innovations from its extensive range of high performance and durable vinyl flooring products, interior finishes and accessory solutions, for the contract, sports and housing sectors.

Products will include Taraflex™ sports flooring solutions which are used in both community and professional venues where first class performance and comfort count, and for the healthcare sector, Mipolam Symbioz, Gerflor’s brand new, top-of-the range flooring solution. Gerflor Residential Floorings will present its latest sound-insulating, loose-lay flooring. The company will also be unveiling a series of environmentally-friendly, recyclable, loose-lay, ‘clic’ system floorings for residential contractuk@gerflor.com enq 040 housing environments.

48 Public Sector Build Journal

Sustainable solutions

Sika Limited is gearing up for its biggest Ecobuild yet, as it prepares to demonstrate its ‘Solutions for a Sustainable Future’ on Stand N810. Amongst the construction products on display will be a new range of green roof and solar roof solutions. These systems incorporate waterproofing membranes from Sika’s three roofing brands; Liquid Plastics, Sarnafil and Trocal. Sika will also be demonstrating its SikaSpec system, which allows specifiers to quickly and easily produce their own specification on-line. Other exhibits on the stand include the company’s extensive range of flooring and hygiene solutions, as well as the opportunity to explore the Sika E-house.

sales@uk.sika.com enq 041

Ventilation Solutions

The New e 3-co Crown

by Fläkt Woods Limited

Energy Recovery Unit now available

• Energy Saving - up to 95% Thermal Efficiency • Low specific fan power levels that meet new Part L regulations • Eurovent, ErP 2009/125/EC and EN 15232 compliant • Incorporating EC motor technology that already exceeds the specified Ecodesign targets set for 2015 • BMS interface (MODBUS) as standard • Integrated controls with plug and play technology

Now availa ble

To discover more, come and see us at

Ecobuild, Stand N1642

Integrated Exchanger

Fläkt Woods Limited Axial Way, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5ZD Tel: 01206 222 555 Fax: 01206 222 777 email: marketing.uk@flaktwoods.com website: www.flaktwoods.co.uk

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17/11/10

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Online Enquiry 042 08/02/2012 12:25

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Online Enquiry 043 16/01/2012 13:16 Public Sector Build Journal 49

Ecobuild Preview

Timberplay in new partnership with Santa & Cole Timberplay is delighted to announce a new partnership with street furniture specialists, Santa & Cole. The addition of this high quality and superbly designed range of products, will expand Timberplay's offer to professionals working in the field of enhancing external environments.

To launch its new partnership with Santa & Cole, Timberplay will be attending Ecobuild, unveiling the new Santa & Cole brochure on Stand S1756. Based in the renowned European design city of Barcelona, Santa & Cole work with specifically selected independent designers to create a range of products that are both beautiful and functional.

Landscape architects, developers and local authorities have grown to trust the Timberplay brand as a result of its focus on customer service and after sales support. They can now benefit from this same level of service when considering street furniture and outdoor lighting.

Commenting on the new partnership, Paul Collings, Managing Director at

Redefining efficiency

Xpelair Ventilation Solutions and Redring are teaming up at Ecobuild to showcase a variety of highly efficient, carbon reducing ventilation, showering and hot water solutions. On Stand S3223, Xpelair will be featuring the new Solace and Compact heat recovery units made specifically for smaller, well insulated properties, as well as the next generation of centralised mechanical extract units – the new Xplus 2ECRF complete with RF battery-free control.

Redring will be launching a stylish and highly efficient showering solution that features an ‘eco’ setting and unique timed shower button. Also on display will be Redring’s Digimix digital mixer shower and the Powerstream Powerselect.

Lisa.creamer@applied-energy.com enq 045

50 Public Sector Build Journal

Timberplay, said: “Santa & Cole share great synergy with Timberplay. Its commitment to innovation is something that Timberplay respects as it mirrors our own values and those of our existing partners. Santa & Cole ensures that whilst demonstrating exceptional classical designs, its products will also effortlessly blend into any environment.

“As with Timberplay, quality is paramount. Santa & Cole’s products are built to last so any investment made is for the long-term. And finally, the company’s record on sustainability is enviable. All its materials are well chosen in order to have a minimum negative impact on the environment – something we at Timberplay applaud.”

sales@timberplay.com enq 044

Energy opportunities Fläkt Woods will be displaying its new e3co Crown unit (right) on Stand N1642 as well as promoting the e3 line range. The e3co Crown is a technological innovation, with high efficiency EUROVENT certified counter flow aluminium heat plate exchangers, which are used to help capture the energy contained in normally exhausted buildings and utilise it to treat the incoming outdoor ventilation air, providing energy recovery efficiencies in excess of 90%. Also being promoted is the new e3-Line range of energy efficient fans that maximise installed efficiency and minimise energy consumption. The range includes the company’s JM range of fans, fitted with IE2 motors for greater efficiency. marketing.uk@flaktwoods.com enq 046

Kitchen sets eco-standards Moores Furniture Group is using Ecobuild to showcase the company’s first-ever eco-kitchen range on Stand S14. The ReAction range includes a host of ‘green’ features, such as all the cabinets having a BRE whole life costing of 20 years, 15mm thick cabinet doors (instead of 18mm) to reduce the number of trees harvested in the production process, waste separation bins and waste disposal units and shallow sinks and taps with flow restrictors. The ReAction range is designed to raise the bar in the industry by helping housebuilders and social housing providers earn points marketing@moores.co.uk enq 047 towards the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Ecobuild Preview

Solarlux displays versatile range Leading folding systems door manufacturer Solarlux Systems Ltd of Welwyn Garden City will be displaying a wide range of glazing products at Ecobuild 2012.

Solarlux manufactures folding doors, wintergardens, balcony glazing systems and glass canopies. On Stand N40 it will feature balcony glazing – the SL25, SL25XXL (above) and parapet glazing the SL45.

Also on display will be the SL92, a wood and aluminium folding door,

which is one of the most thermally efficient folding doors on the market, and the SL82, aluminium folding glass door which gives the appearance of a continuous glass façade due to the stepped glazing and slim external frame. The SL82 has been awarded the red dot and iF Design Award.

Solarlux products also include contemporary wintergardens, there are four in the range, a range of folding doors in wood, aluminium and wood/ aluminium, glass canopies, glazed curtain walling and horizontal sliding walls.

info@solarlux.co.uk enq 048

Interactive 'Eco Map' offers energy advice SIG Energy Management, a leading European provider of whole-property energy management solutions, will be providing Ecobuild 2012 delegates with a unique way to navigate the complex legislative landscape of current energy policy. An interactive ‘Eco Map’ – which shows what energy efficiency measures can be obtained under each different Government scheme - will be housed in a life-size ‘demonstrator’ property on SIG Energy Management’s Stand S3250, which shows the difference between an energy efficient property and a poorly insulated home.

hollysmith@sigplc.com enq 049

Innovations in carpet recycling Innovative new ways of reusing carpet materials and off-cuts will be showcased by Carpet Recycling UK on Stand S20. An information-packed CRUK seminar programme on Thursday, March 22nd, will highlight the latest cutting-edge progress on treating recovered carpet as a rich new resource for novel products and high-end applications. Discussion will centre on how carpet materials can be used as a valuable new resource for cost-effective and eco-friendly design concepts, including construction products. The sessions will cover: Innovative construction products from carpet fibres; Design for recycling and designing products with recycled content, and info@carpetrecyclinguk.com enq 050 Carpet tile reuse and recycling.

Green security Security expert Abloy UK will be showcasing the energy efficiency benefits of electric locks compared to magnets on Stand N1370, and offering visitors the chance to sign up for courses at the Abloy Academy. Jon Burke, Marketing Manager for Abloy UK, said: “Ecobuild is the perfect forum for the electric locks vs magnets debate, with visitors able to see exactly how some solutions draw less power, and are therefore less of a strain on the environment. Any visitors that want to learn more will have the opportunity to register for courses at our academy which has a brand new prospectus with dates throughout the year.”

marketing@abloy.co.uk enq 051

Public Sector Build Journal 51

Kitchens, Bathrooms & Washrooms

Total approach Robin Tuffley, Marketing Manager at Total Hygiene, the UK's biggest-selling supplier of disabled toileting solutions, examines developments in inclusive bathroom/washroom design.

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isabled consumers account for £80bn of consumer spending annually according to a report for the Office of Disability Issues.

Research shows a quarter of a million people, including those with profound and multiple learning disabilities and other people with severe disabilities who need the support of at least one carer, cannot use standard accessible (Document M compliant) toilets because they need support.

Figures released by VisitEngland show overnight trips made by, or accompanied by, someone with a health impairment or condition, accounted for almost £1b in the first six months of 2009, and people with access needs account for 12% of all overnight domestic trips, let alone day trips or routine outings ‘to town’.

As a result, there is a significant need and opportunity in the supply and installation of bathroom/washroom solutions that meet special

52 Public Sector Build Journal

needs, at home and away.

Commercial and public locations have to address Building Regulation requirements and British Standards, perceived as ‘good practice’, including the latest BS6465-4 code of practice for the provision of public toilets, which integrates with BS8300:2009 accessible building design, which lays down standard criteria for all buildings – and their toilets – to which numbers of the public have access.

BS6465 states: “Research and feedback from community groups has shown that public toilet provision is essential in creating accessible and sustainable cities, and meeting the needs of commuters, tourists, visitors, and residents. To meet these needs, and those of people in towns, villages and rural areas, it is essential that there are adequate numbers of public toilets and that they are in the correct locations, accessible, well designed and suitable for user needs.”

■

The Clos-o-Mat bathroom package from Total Hygiene. There are over 40,000 installations of the Clos-o-Mat premium toilet across the UK, some of which have been in daily use for over 30 years

The Standard cross-references with BS8300:2009, which recommends that buildings to which members of the public have access – new and existing – should have an accessible toilet. If there is capacity for only one loo, it should be unisex and have enough space for someone in a wheelchair or with a carer or guide dog to maneouvre.

BS8300 further includes a whole new type of accessible toilet – Changing Places, the campaign for which Total Hygiene is sponsor.

Changing Places toilets include adequate space for the disabled person and up to two carers, a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench and tracking/mobile hoist system. Under BS8300: 2009, further requirements of a height adjustable washbasin, shower, peninsular toilet, privacy screen and a safe and clean environment, i.e. wide tear-off paper to cover the bench, a large waste bin and a non-slip floor, are specified.

Tourism for All is campaigning for proprietors to go beyond the basic legislative requirement – a Document M package and wheel-in shower – and realise how enhanced facilities, such as including a height adjustable basin or a ‘wash and dry’ toilet, would enable them to maximise revenue potential from the disabled sector.

Housebuilders, especially those in the social sector, also need to accommodate Lifetime Homes criteria, a key element of which is that ‘new homes should be built to be accessible for all people, young and old, single or in families, disabled and non-disabled’, with a specific requirement being the provision of an accessible toilet.

The market is already big, and can only continue to grow, as our population continues to age. Our premium toilet, the Clos-o-Mat, already has over 40,000 installations across the UK, and some of those have been in daily use for over 30 years! A little time invested in learning about the considerations and requirements, and putting that into practice, could reap significant dividends, generating more ‘footfall’ and more business.

info@clos-o-mat.com

enq 052

Kitchens, Bathrooms & Washrooms

Deb's Global range is universally understood Every day, every single employee is faced with a choice as to whether they use a skin care product or not. We take a look at how the Deb Global Product Range has provided a simple, yet cost-effective solution to help employers and employees make the right choices.

With an approach to product development that focuses on both chemistry and dispensing technology, the Deb Global Product Range was created to meet the specific skin safety needs and cultural diversity of both local and international organisations. The range showcases Deb’s latest technologies, ‘best in class’ formulations and rigorously engineered dispensing systems.

Throughout many years of working with the users of their products and dispensing systems, Deb has gained a deep insight into the factors that affect skin care compliance; one of the key issues being to ensure that users know which product to use and how to use them.

Phil Spark, Marketing Director at Deb explains: “Our products are created with the final objective in mind – every person in the organisation doing the

right thing with regard to skin safety.

“Our aim is to ensure that our skin care products and dispensing systems are easily understood and easy to use.

As such, a combination of language neutral iconography, strong visual colours and clear, unambiguous wording, has been applied across all products, dispensers and education materials to visually identify the product type and its usage.”

With Deb’s product development philosophy being to design products which are innovative; fit for purpose; pleasant to use; convenient; costeffective and tested to the highest internationally recognised protocols, the Global Product Range is a simple skin care solution that meets the universal needs of employees and visitors alike.

enquiry@deb.co.uk enq 053

Energy efficient appliances The redevelopment of a former council depot and derelict petrol station in Tower Hamlets, East London, includes a new 14-storey apartment building constructed by Higgins on behalf of affordable housing provider, A2 Dominion. Beko Built In home appliances were specified for the kitchen and laundry through national distributor DBD Distribution. The Beko appliances include the company’s built-in ovens, which are 20% more energy efficient than A class, and the A+ energy rated integrated fridge-freezers, which offer an auto defrost facility. Also specified were Beko’s easy to clean ceramic hobs with four Rapidlite heating zones. amanda.castle@beko.co.uk enq 054

Wet room range expanded Schlüter-Systems has continued to answer calls from an increasing number of people wishing to install a wet room at home with the launch of a new addition to its Schlüter-KERDI-SHOWER range. Schlüter®KERDI-SHOWER-TB has been specifically designed for timber substrate environments, allowing this modular system for the construction of floor level showers with ceramic tiles to be installed within timber floor boards. It joins Schlüter®-KERDI-SHOWER-T and Schlüter®-KERDI-SHOWER-TC as the third addition to the range, but is differentiated from them due to a unique thinner assembly height.

sales@schluter.co.uk enq 055

Uncompromising function

With lines that get straight to the point, the Vero bathroom programme has made a name for itself with lovers of design and architecture. Now, this popular range with its striking, rectangular form is making its debut in the kitchen. The Vero ceramic kitchen sink features a rectangular, no-frills shape and a simple elegance.

Practical and versatile: whether wood, natural stone or granite – the Vero kitchen sinks can be combined with virtually any worktop material.

Available in white, pergamon, chestnut, matt anthracite and black, the Vero sink also creates stunning highlights in any kitchen environment.

Info@uk.duravit.com enq 056

Public Sector Build Journal 53

HVAC

Hamworthy adds value with new bespoke site survey for customers Hamworthy Heating is providing added value to its customers with the introduction of a bespoke site survey designed to help identify a client's needs and ensure the recommendation of the most suitable boilers, water heaters or renewable energy products.

By conducting a site survey, Hamworthy is taking a proactive approach to understand the demands faced by its clients today. “Our survey provides an interesting and valuable insight into attitude and behaviour towards costs,” explained Keith Thompson, Hamworthy’s Sales and Marketing Director. “More often the spotlight is on the plant acquisition cost, but we can demonstrate cost savings during our site survey, which will benefit the customer in the rolled-up project cost. For example, identifying

Intelligent ventilation Passivent, a leading supplier of domestic and commercial ventilation, has developed its unique iMVHR system for use in domestic and multi-occupancy environments, up to the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 6.

Passivent iMVHR combines the recognised benefits of traditional MVHR with those of demand controlled humidity sensitive ventilation, to ensure rooms are adequately ventilated, but only as necessary. It provides additional benefits too, delivering greater control thereby reducing energy consumption, being quicker and easier to install and commission, and eliminating any need for occupier input.

info@passivent.com enq 058

54 Public Sector Build Journal

factors which might otherwise have been missed or forgotten, will eliminate the necessity for re-work on site, which is both costly and time consuming, and often leads to delays in completion, something in itself which might incur financial penalties,” Keith added.

Carried out by Hamworthy’s technical sales managers, the site survey includes checks to all aspects of a plant room, covering everything from access and existing plant efficiency, to advice on compliance of heating and hot water

equipment with current legislation.

Employing an holistic approach, Hamworthy’s site survey facilitates the delivery of the most comprehensive advice and recommendations, while all the time providing assurance to the customer that their needs are being addressed.

Working with specifiers and consultants, contractors and building operators, Hamworthy is aware that each client has a vested interest in different aspects of a project. As a result, its site survey is tailored and carried out with the relevant customer in mind, and may include integration issues with other heating technologies.

A site survey by Hamworthy should only need to be completed once. From the figures and information recorded, Hamworthy will provide details of findings and advise accordingly, supplying a comprehensive quote covering all aspects of a project, except installation charges. A copy of the survey is also supplied to the customer for reference.

sales@hamworthy-heating.com enq 057

College saves money with solar system Stokvis Energy Systems is supplying an energy efficient solar heating system to provide hot water to staff and public toilets as part of the plan to reduce energy and carbon emissions at Thomas Rotherham College, an educational establishment for 16 to 19-year-olds in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. The system – comprising two Ecotube DF120 solar evacuated tubes, a pump station, control system, solar thermal single coil 210-litre buffer vessel, unvented mains kit and electric immersion heater backup – will result in estimated energy savings of around 2,600 to 3,000kWh a year. info@stokvisboilers.com enq 059

Air source heat pumps offer high efficiency Evinox has recently launched a new range of COP 5 Air Source Heat Pumps. The excellent Coefficient of Performance (COP) figures for the Evinox PHRIE range makes it one of the most efficient ASHP available in the UK. The range is well suited to residential and commercial applications and currently features 1018kW outputs with two single-phase models and one three phase model. Additional models with outputs from 5-25kW will be launched shortly. The PHRIE features a high-performance heat exchanger with AISI 316 stainless steel plates and heat insulation. All models in the range are extremely quite in operation info@evinox.co.uk enq 060 with sound levels from 35dBA

www.firmanglass.com

Processing Excellence • Glass toughening 4mm – 19mm (3000mm x 5000mm) • CNC cutting equipment • CNC straight & shaped edgework • CNC drilling, notching & routing • Water jet cutting for glass, steel and stone to 100mm thicknesses

For more information contact sales@firmanglass.com or visit www.firmanglass.com Firman Glass,19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 OJH Tel: 01708 374534

www.firmanglass.com Online Enquiry 061

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Europanel: finessing the envelope Eurobond's high quality, insulated metal panel system is now available in five distinctive system configurations and is ideally suited to contemporary building façades.

Designed with concealed fasteners, Europanel has a smooth, architecturally flat panel face and is seamlessly integrated with building fenestration.

The newly developed systems comprise uniform 30 or 50mm fully

gasketed joints creating a bi-modular appearance or grid effect. Alongside this, Eurobond has upgraded its ‘classic’ 12mm gasketed and 5mm open ‘pencil line’ multi modular panel variants.

The new options build on the success of the company’s proven and successful Europanel system which has been used extensively across a range of sectors including airport, retail, office, education, health, sports and leisure projects across the UK. However, the company hasn’t stopped there and to ‘finesse’ the envelope further, it has also added a purpose-designed suite of aluminium extrusions. The extrusions range from ‘bullnose’ to ‘fin’ profiles and are powder coated to either complement the Tata color coated Europanel system or to contrast as required.

The core Eurobond product strengths have been retained including non-combustible stone wool cores, exceptional airtightness and thermal performance, full recyclability and carbon neutral design (available with Confidex Sustain® to offer the world’s first CarbonNeutral® building envelope).

All backed up with service excellence from Eurobond’s technical and customer service teams.

sales@eurobond.co.uk enq 062

Top of the class for safety!

A real alternative From unmatched security to stunning looks, Metrotile Lightweight Steel Roofing has everything your public sector building project needs, and is a great alternative to ‘traditional’ roofing materials.

Furthermore, you can source everything your roof requires from one location. Metrotile offers a full range of bespoke accessories, from VPU to its integrated Photovoltaic System. Each Metrotile roof system is backed by an industry-leading 40-year guarantee. Contact Metrotile on 01249 658514 for a free quotation and to find out how Metrotile Lightweight Steel Roofing can take your public sector building project to the next level.

sales@metrotile.co.uk enq 063

56 Public Sector Build Journal

SAFETYWORKS & Solutions Ltd., has recently provided an upgraded roof safety and access system at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital School, a Grade 1 listed building in Bristol. SAFETYWORKS installed 10 Uniline 8mm Stainless Steel Systems to the tiled roofs, totalling 280m.

Uniline allows ‘hands-free’ protection throughout the length of the system, where the operator is attached via a link device that glides over the brackets without the need to detach from the fall protection system. Being manufactured from 316 stainless steel, enhanced through electro polishing, results in the system components being suitable for heavy use in demanding environments. info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk enq 064

Raising the energy bar Morrisons’ Regional Distribution Centre in Bridgwater, Somerset, is raising the bar for energy conservation by using innovative solar PV and insulated panel technology from Kingspan Insulated Panels to create one of Europe’s most energy efficient logistics facilities. One of the challenges was to transform unproductive roof space into the facility’s own power plant. Following a thorough analysis by Kingspan’s in-house Renewables design team, two different products from the PowerPanel range were specified – the Roof PowerPanel Laminate System and Kingspan Roof PowerPanel crystalline PV modules. Kingspan KS1000 MR Micro-Rib architectural wall panels and KS1000 RW insulated roof panels info@kingspanpanels.com enq 065 were also specified.

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Schöck lends itself perfectly to iconic library The £14m Canada Water Library at Rotherhithe in London Docklands, resembles an inverted pyramid, clad in aluminium sheets. To prevent thermal bridging in this striking design, the Isokorb® range from Schöck was specified.

The aluminium sheets that clad the Canada Water Library are anodised in a light bronze with sequined perforations, giving it a striking visual effect.

Thermal efficiency and energy saving construction issues are central to the design, with the avoidance of thermal bridging a major consideration.

Heat and energy loss are two of the consequences, but condensation and mould growth can also occur, which may lead to health and respiratory problems. With balconies on the south

side of the building connected to the edge of the internal reinforced concrete slab, and a series of platforms on the south and east sides, preventing thermal bridging at these connectivity points was critical.

The solution was the type KS14 Isokorb® from Schöck Ltd, which connects cantilevered steel components to reinforced concrete. This latest generation type KS14 has around 20 per cent more load-bearing capacity in the bending moment, with the result

that even for conventional construction, the number of components required on site can be reduced, saving on expensive structural steel and valuable installation time.

The product range – which allows connectivity between concrete-toconcrete, concrete-to-steel and steelto-steel – also meets full compliance with all relevant UK building regulations and provides BBA Certification and LABC Registration

design@schoeck.co.uk enq 066

Stonechip cladding is Alpha rated Stirling Council has recently undertaken the complete external refurbishment of the Alpha Community Centre, which includes new roofing and external cladding by Vinylit.

Vinytherm Stonechip Cladding was commissioned by the Council for use on the external walls of the centre. Stonechip was chosen for its durability, low maintenance and finished appearance, which complements the adjacent buildings. Vinytherm Stonechip Cladding is a unique system of interlocking panels which are made using natural stone chippings for a hardwearing, long-life finish.

They provide excellent rainscreen protection and can be used with insulation to greatly improve the sound and thermal performance of the building.

info@vinylit.co.uk enq 067

New economic roofing choice from Sika Sika Liquid Plastics has announced the launch of a new roofing solution available for all roofing contractors – Sikalastic® 618. Sikalastic® 618 has been released in response to market pressures to provide a simple, economic choice for any roofing contractor when specifying liquid applied roofing systems. The new product has all the inherent advantages of using liquid membranes, such as cold application and a seamless finish, as well as offering the benefit of being a cost-effective roofing option. The Sikalastic membrane can be quickly and easily installed and cures to provide a seamless finish that retains vapour permeability.

Liquidplastics@uk.sika.com enq 068

Leisure landmark The aesthetics of the £18.6m Bert Williams Leisure Centre in Bilston, Wolverhampton, are being enhanced, whilst vital plant protected, through engineering expertise from Kingfisher Louvre Systems. The triangular, 5600m2 three-storey building, features Kingfisher’s KW75Z louvres finished in pastel turquoise (RAL6034) as a prominent architectural feature which simultaneously provides effective screening and ventilation to plant behind the façade. Over 700 aluminium blades, ranging from 995mm to 3000mm long, have been individually engineered, and where appropriate mitred, to create a seamless join between the louvres and curved façade cladding and glazing.

info@kingfisherlouves.com enq 069

Public Sector Build Journal 57

Doors, Windows & Facades

Draught elimination

Looking for a fast exit?

JS Air Curtains has supplied an electrically heated air curtain for the London Fire Brigade Headquarters in Union Street, to eliminate cold draughts from its reception area. As well as keeping the cold out in the winter, it also keeps the heat out during the summer, improving the air conditioning quality and energy efficiency of the building. JS supplied the attractive round 2m Rund air curtain in brushed stainless steel to contractor Arkas who installed it horizontally above the double entry sliding doors leading into the reception area. A time switch and digital thermostat were also provided.

The Briton 500 Series of panic exit hardware has undergone a radical transformation enabling devices to be fitted in just seven minutes, half the time of the existing range. The improved range, from Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies, features a new, patented cable system for easier on-site adjustment and maximum accuracy during installation. Both the 560 pushbar and 570 touchbar versions come with a self-adhesive template for correct fixing first time.

The simple and secure snap-on covers complete the installation quickly and easily, giving the devices a modern finish which complements other Briton products – such as the 376 Series of panic hardware. info@ingersollrand.co.uk enq 071

sales@jsaircurtains.com enq 070

Profiles offer flexibility Alu-Timber and its approved fabricator, Alliance Design Limited, have worked on a new build school in Bristol which replaced an existing school building. Alu-Timber, from The Parkside Group Ltd., was specified due to the flexibility it offers. All profiles are kept in stock which means challenging site deadlines can always be met. The extensive range of profiles create options for large glazed framing areas which integrate seamlessly with Alu-Timber windows and doors. The complete Alu-Timber range includes casement, tilt and turn windows, open-in and open-out doors, projects@parksidegroup.co.uk enq 072 framing and curtain walling.

Total Glass answers DIY SOS Liverpool-based Total Glass has helped to secure the future of a dilapidated city youth centre by donating energy-efficient, smart new windows to a project shown on BBC One’s DIY SOS Children in Need one-off special. Total’s specialist team supplied 17 high quality PVC-U windows – seven on the front, nine on the side and one at the rear – for the Norris Green Youth Centre, which resembles two aircraft hangars placed next to each other. The new, low-maintenance windows, played a pivotal part in the modern transformation of the facility and will keep the centre safe, secure and fully draught-proofed for many years to come. sales@totalglass.com enq 073

Kawneer systems help sustainable college Kawneer’s AA®110 curtain walling was used on Sheffield City College’s student refectory as well as on the walls of the flagship atrium. Glazed strip sections were also used on the atrium’s curved roof, complemented elsewhere by AA®601 top/side-hung casement and AA®602 pivot windows and series 190 heavy-duty commercial entrance doors. Architects Jefferson Sheard have used Kawneer before on numerous education and transport projects. Architect Mike Hall said: “The Kawneer systems are a key element to the project, providing natural light into the atrium space and integrating smoke vents. The use of an aluminium system with high kuk.kawneer@alcoa.com enq 074 recyclable properties was also important.”

58 Public Sector Build Journal

Historic refurbishment Social housing fenestration specialist Total Glass manufactured more than 40 aluminium windows as part of major refurbishment works to one of Liverpool’s historic Grade 2 listed Georgian buildings. The property, formerly on the Buildings at Risk Register and owned by the Riverside Group, has been reinstated as temporary supported accommodation. All the Sapa Dualframe Si windows and doors were specified in a RAL 7016 dark grey powder coated finish and fitted to the renovated rear elevation. The original façade had to be preserved in keeping with the special architectural character of the area.

sales@totalglass.com enq 075

Doors, Windows & Timber

Door blank range is sound investment With popularity soaring, James Latham's extensive range of Moralt door blanks is now available nationwide, from each of its nine UK panel sites.

Following a period of stringent acoustic and fire testing, Moralt Firesound door blanks have scored a double hit with architects and specifiers, not only for achieving excellent sound insulation – registering a noise reduction performance of 41dB – but also an impressive fire protection rating.

In addition, Morlat Klima door blanks, which are engineered specifically to comply with ever tightening building regulations, boast exceptional thermal qualities, delivering a U-value of 0.89.

This has seen orders for the Moralt door blanks increase significantly

Military precision REHAU fabricator CWG Choices demonstrated its ability to meet even the most challenging customer requirements with the development of a bespoke version of its REHAU Heritage vertical slider for the MOD. At Bulford Camp on the Salisbury Plain, CWG Choices collaborated with the specialist design team at REHAU to develop a version of the vertical slider specifically for this project which is externally beaded to meet the MOD’s bomb blast requirements. CWG Choices fabricated more than 100 vertical sliders for Bulford Camp, which look almost identical to standard REHAU Heritage vertical sliders and meet the same security and energy efficiency standards.

enquiries@rehau.com enq 077

among joinery manufacturers and architects as they opt for Moralt in projects which are required to meet demanding construction specifications.

James Latham’s Product Champion for Doors, Steve Frommont, said: “We now have a comprehensive range of door blanks to suit every requirement. When acoustics are a

priority, as the name suggests, Moralt Firesound offers the perfect balance between sound and safety, whereas for those searching for exceptional insulation and who may have been set demanding energy saving targets, Moralt Klima can help to create the self-heating building of the future.”

marketing@lathams.co.uk enq 076

A fresh look at white doors The new Just White Range from Vicaima presents contemporary styling, multiple surface options and different shades of white to re-invigorate this timeless classic.

The Vicaima Just White Range creates plenty of scope for design with a choice that includes everything from a clean and simple flush surface to intricate face grooving in a selection of interesting and geometric patterns. Additionally, Just White doors can be fitted with decorative glazing and commercial openings to bring light and flexibility to interior space. Surface options include fully finished white lacquered, a superior white painted surface and white wood grain foil. info@vicaima.com enq 078

Order system is red hot New World Developments, manufacturer of the 30-minute composite fire door Isolate, has introduced a speedy and easy-to-use internal order system to handle growing demand for contract orders. Isolate has become a preferred choice with local authority specifiers keen to tackle growing fire concerns over medium to high-rise flats. Isolate is a 44mm thick door leaf made up of two GRP skins with an engineered timber core set into a 70mm hardwood frame which is tested to BS EN 942. The outer skin features a distinctive grain definition and moulding detail and is available in seven styles in a range of colours.

sales@nwd.uk.com enq 079

Public Sector Build Journal 59

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Take to the floor with stylish new tile ranges With the demand for fully co-ordinated wall and floor combinations increasing and following the successful launches of a number of wall tile ranges during 2010, British Ceramic Tile is pleased to announce that a selection of in-house manufactured floor tiles are also now in production.

The new floor tiles from British Ceramic Tile, offer a collection of versatile, hard-wearing, design-led options and are available in 333 x 333mm. They can be used in a range of both contract and retail environments from kitchens, reception areas, bathrooms and conservatories.

“The new floor tiles provide total co-ordination with some of our most popular wall tile ranges and also work well as standalone solutions,” explains Sheila Elliott, Creative Director for British Ceramic Tile. “Floor tiles are being widely used throughout the home and this latest collection has been designed with that in mind. They provide a selection of practical and stylish design options for use in a variety of environments.”

The latest additions have a stronger body, improved glazes and increased PEI ratings compared to the previous inhouse manufactured products.

The Terracotta floor, left, has the finished look of authentic aged terracotta.

The natural tones will provide a warm ambiance to any kitchen or conservatory.

The Brighton White floor, below, has a linear effect complementing its corresponding wall tiles. The light colour palette and commercial designs provide a versatile collection which will work across a wide range of products.

marketing@britishceramictile.com enq 080

Opus stock availability guaranteed

Absorbing solution VertiQ from Rockfon is an exciting new concept in wall absorbers, specifically designed for installation in schools and sporting venues, as well as being suitable for offices. Combining modern aesthetics with excellent impact resistance, VertiQ highly sound absorbent wall absorbers offer strength and safety, with a unique fixing system. A major advantage of VertiQ lies in its dimensional flexibility, with no limits to wall height or width.

This is a major benefit for installations within contemporary schools, leisure facilities and sports halls where traditional suspended ceilings cannot be installed and the wall area needs to be utilised to achieve optimum acoustics.

info@rockfon.co.uk enq 081

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Karndean Assured is a new initiative from Karndean Designflooring that guarantees the stock availability of nine of its bestselling Opus products and delivery to the customer within five working days – or your money back*. The scheme offers five wood effect planks and four stone effect tiles, all of which are available for delivery via a dedicated courier service at no additional cost*. Orders between 35m2 and 200m2 automatically qualify for the Karndean Assured service. *For more information, including full Terms and Conditions, on Karndean Assured and to see Karndean Designflooring’s other ranges, please visit www.karndeancommercial.co.uk/assured.cfm or call 0845 605 5880. commercial@karndean.co.uk enq 082

Tarkett Studio opens in Paris The Tarkett Studio is a unique 4000m2 training centre and showroom on the outskirts of Paris. Showcasing Tarkett’s solutions for every type of interior environment through a sensorial experience, it combines floors, sounds and images for every application. The Studio includes more than 3000 product samples, an installation and technical training facility and a showcase of more than 60 different interior environments. The Studio includes The Tarkett Academy, a 1000m2 space dedicated to sharing knowledge and skills. Trainees and flooring professionals alike can gain professional accreditation in flooring installation alongside additional technical training in installation and tarkett.studio@tarkett.com enq 083 maintenance techniques.

Floors, Surfaces & Ceilings

Fast-track furniture for student rooms Cambridgeshire-based joinery company, Strata Panels UK, has installed contract bedroom furniture in 45 student rooms at Herbal Hill, London, in just seven days!

Working with John Strand (MK) Ltd, Strata Panels has designed individual bedroom sets from 18mm thick melamine-faced MDF panels for student accommodation at Herbal Hill in London. All units were finished with 2mm PVC edging to all exposed edges and good quality runners and hinges.

The result is freestanding, sturdy furniture, of lower value but made to withstand the rigours of student life.

Calvin Reeves commenting on behalf of John Strand (MK) Ltd said: “We were extremely pleased with the quality of the furniture, the scheduling and installation. The personal service was very much appreciated.”

Strata Panels manufactures in the UK and provides a national service.

The family-run company prides itself on its flexibility allowing for short lead times, and a wide range of furniture can be tailor-made to a client’s requirement. Panels can also be powder coated allowing for a variety of colours or mix and match.

Strata Panels UK manufactures everything from bespoke retail displays to contract furniture. Nothing is outside the realms of possibility. With over 30 years experience in the woodwork trade, a fast and professional service is guaranteed.

sales@stratapanels.co.uk enq 084

New ceilings guide launched With a comprehensive range of ceilings and accessories now available through its network of branches across the UK, Minster has launched a new guide to assist customers in sourcing the best ceiling solutions. The Minster Ceilings Guide is packed with over 80 fully-illustrated pages of products from more than 20 of the country’s leading manufacturers. The guide includes ceiling tiles, planks, baffles, MF systems, access panels, modular lighting, suspension grid and accessories.

Details of each product’s performance characteristics, such as acoustics and fire resistance, are clearly illustrated through a unique system of icons, alongside their environmental credentials. lee.cowling@minsteronline.co.uk enq 085

Value with performance Polyflor’s new Polysafe Ecomax heavy-duty safety vinyl flooring combines outstanding levels of slip resistance with best value pricing. Designed to meet the needs of typical safety flooring environments such as commercial buildings and social housing schemes, Ecomax features the solid construction of Polyflor XL with safety aggregates to offer a specially engineered safety surface. Ecomax complies fully with HSE guidelines and adheres to EN 1384. Available in 12 attractive and practical shades, Ecomax is manufactured using on average 25% recycled material and is 100% recyclable. It achieves a generic info@polyflor.com enq 086 BRE Global Environmental A+ Rating.

Sheet offers long-term protection Impact protection sheet from Intastop Ltd, provides an ideal solution for unsightly or damaged walls and doors. It is highly impact resistant, available with a wipe clean anti-graffiti and anti-bacterial coating, is class ‘O’ fire rated; tested to BS476 parts 6 and 7 and can be totally bespoke. The nature of the product means that it is safe and durable and can be made to fit any decorative requirements. It is available as smooth or textured and can be digitally printed. It can be ordered cut to size, shape or simply and easily cut on site.

sales@instastop.co.uk enq 087

Public Sector Build Journal 61

Landscaping & Drainage

New service & repair centre for T-T Trief triumphs at tolls A three-year project to build an extra road tunnel under the River Tyne has benefited from the use of Brett Landscaping Trief Containment Kerbs, ensuring driver and staff safety at toll booths. The Trief system works thanks to the innovative design of the kerbs, which trap the tyres of impacting vehicles to ensure they don’t leave the carriageway.

The kerbs themselves also serve as a visual guide for drivers. At Tyne Tunnels, the Brett Landscaping Trief GST2A kerb system was specified due to its ease of installation and the wide range of components available including quadrants, short lengths, radius and transition kerbs.

landscapinginfo@brett.co.uk enq 088

T-T Pumps has invested in a brand new service and repair centre at its head office in Cheshire, which is fully equipped to facilitate all makes and types of pumping equipment. The workshop is complete with a 3 tonne lifting and full test facilities and is segregated away from its clean water amenities. Conscious to minimise the impact of its business on the environment, T-T has introduced a Raincycle system as part of its new service centre developments, to recycle water for wash-down and flushing facilities. response@ttpumps.com enq 089

Natural selection With over 140 years’ experience in the decorative aggregates sector, Long Rake Spar has gained national status as one of the UK’s largest suppliers of hard landscaping products. With time being a precious commodity for many of its retailers, Long Rake Spar has taken the initiative in designing a new product catalogue to feature fully EPOS-friendly barcodes for its full product range. Each product’s barcode is featured alongside a brief overview of the specifics of each product, enabling customers to directly generate orders from their EPOS system, thereby streamlining their ordering process whilst admin@longrakespar.co.uk enq 090 avoiding any manual entry errors.

Stormwater storage solution The construction of a new hall of residence at the University of Exeter has incorporated an innovative and space-saving stormwater storage solution, using Hydro Stormbloc® within the foundation of the building. By designing a storage tank using Hydro’s Stormbloc® modular storage within the foundation structure, consultant engineers Airey & Coles, enabled the redeveloped site to meet strict sustainable drainage requirements. The total size of the attenuation tank is 24.8m long, 10.4m wide and 1.6m high, providing over 400m3 of storage and comprising 798 full size and 399 half size Stormbloc® units. enquiries@hydro-international.co.uk enq 091

'Sound' arguments for cast iron Saint-Gobain PAM UK has published the first in a series of White Papers which tackle key issues surrounding the specification and management of above ground drainage systems for commercial and residential buildings. Entitled ‘When put to the test a sound argument delivers cast iron evidence’, the White Paper discusses the acoustic performances of above ground drainage systems made from different materials. The paper draws on results of commissioned tests at independent laboratories to the BS EN 14366:2004 standard. The testing process found that both mechanical cast iron and the latest push fit cast iron systems, offer measurably better performance than their acoustic mike.rawlings@saint-gobain.com enq 092 plastic and HDPE counterparts.

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Rain-Ceptor harvests Government approval The water-saving benefits of ACO Water Management’s new ACO Rain-Ceptor™ rainwater harvesting tanks have been recognised by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) with their inclusion on the latest ‘Water Technology List’. This approved list of products meets Defra’s criteria for water efficiency and allows any business now buying a Rain-Ceptor tank to offset 100% of the cost against taxable profit in the year of purchase. The Rain-Ceptor™ range consists of 24 tanks providing between 1380 and 4120 litre storage capacity.

marketing@aco.co.uk enq 093

Play Equipment

Top tips for play development A challenging environment makes a huge difference to a child’s development. Specialists in play, Sovereign, offers the following tips for stimulating play: • Taking risks is essential for childrens’ development but keep everyone safe with fencing, surfacing and the provision of shade/shelter • Encourage healthy lifestyles with equipment that influences movement and exercise and introduce sensory planting • Support the development of life-skills with long-lasting equipment incorporating a variety of activities, colours and textures • Create spaces for children to express their creative abilities and provide outdoor facilities to make learning fun.

sales@sovereign.gb.com enq 094

Playtime rocks!

Based on the ever-popular spinning dish but with a super extra rocking play feature, Rota Roka is the latest innovation from SMP. It’s shiny and attractive and actively encourages inclusive play whilst also being suitable for all abilities of children. The dish is made from galvanized steel, giving the product a long life and low maintenance surfacing. SMP is pleased to be able to offer Rota Roka as part of the new Pronto Express Delivery Service offering a 10 working day delivery on a range of SMP’s best selling products. If you order by March 31st 2012, you will qualify for an additional 10% discount on its Pronto Express Delivery items. Quote PRONTO2012 when ordering. enquiries@smp.co.uk enq 095

Adventurous moves Playdale has added two exhilarating new products to its Movers range that are sure to get adrenaline pumping – the Aero Tilt and Rota Glide. The Aero Tilt (above) is the mischievous brother of the Aero Whirl, providing a similar sensation but with an added twist. The rotating overhead wheel provides dynamic play, requiring and improving upper body strength and encouraging timing and co-ordination. The Rota Glide rotates 360° with a simultaneous bouncing action, giving children an exhilarating sense of speed and movement.

With a contemporary, sleek design, the Rota Glide is guaranteed to stand out in any playground.

enquiries@playdale.co.uk enq 096

Scan here with your smartphone October 11 Issue 20

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Greenhouse Live, work & play: a mixed use development in Nottingham

Sustainability in Development An Ashden Award-winning retro-fitting project

Doors & Windows

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Unravelling the sector’s regulations

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Public Sector Build Journal 63

Focus & Innovation

Brochure outlines top ways to save power and money Energy saving specialist Marshall-Tufflex has produced new literature outlining ways in which electrical contractors can offer domestic and commercial customers solutions to reduce electricity bills and cut carbon emissions.

The recently launched ‘Energy Saving Products’ brochure from Marshall-Tufflex gives details of three systems designed to reduce electricity bills.

The voltage optimisation system Voltis Home is aimed at the domestic market and returns power savings of up to 18%. The single-phase system measures 300mm x 240mm x 147mm and is available in two versions – the standard VH60 unit for incoming voltage of up to 243Volts and the VH60HD version for incoming voltage of up to 253Volts.

Sinergy e-Tracker is a portable kWH sub-metering system that analyses power supply to show patterns of demand over an hour, day, week or month. It is perfect for energy waste analysis and for machine trials and maintenance to identify changes in

power usage. Data is managed by downloading via a USB memory stick into the company’s Deltrax5 software or through Excel.

Sinergy k-Wattch is the little brother of e-Tracker and offers a robust and highly portable mains or battery-operated energy analyser that can measure single and three phase devices, giving instant readings or recording and storing data for download to a USB memory stick. K–Wattch can be used as a multi-parameter electrical meter to display all line currents and kVA demands or connected to a singlephase socket for measurement of voltage, current, power factor, kW and kVA. Data is analysed using Deltrax software.

marketing@marshall-tufflex.com enq 099

Exposed steelwork protected

Framework achievement Premier Interlink, a market leader in off-site construction for permanent or temporary buildings, has successfully achieved the levels required to be accepted as part of the 4-year framework programme.

The company was successful for the supply of eight different types of single or multi-storey timber or steelframe buildings available for lease or hire. David Harris, Divisional Director said: “Our innovative and highly cost-effective building solutions are a massive benefit in these times of austerity and budget cuts.”

sales@waco.co.uk enq 100

64 Public Sector Build Journal

Nullifire’s new S708 moisture resistant, water-borne intumescent coating for 60 minutes, has proved the ideal fire protection solution for a new steel-frame car park building in Gloucester. Accredited installer R Lewis and Co., selected Nullifire’s S708 intumescent coating for the project, with two coats of Nullifire TS815 top seal to finish. Nullifire’s technical services and contract support engineer David Lamb said: “S708 is a thin-film coating so loadings are potentially lower and thus less product may be required. Also, because S708 is water-borne, it is low-VOC, meaning it is a lower health risk and is less harmful to the environment.”

protect@nullifire.com enq 101

10-year first for CO alarm The very first battery carbon monoxide alarm range with a full 10-year guarantee has been launched by Kidde Fyrnetics. The new TenYCO self-contained, state-of-the-art carbon monoxide alarms are specially designed for quick and simple installation by nonelectricians and for low-cost of ownership. Both models are small in size with a neat appearance and can be wall-mounted or used freestanding.

TenYCO, powered by two Fuji ultra long-life lithium batteries, each with 2300 mAh capacity, checks the environment for carbon monoxide once every second.

kiddefyr@ukgateway.net

enq 102

Focus & Innovation

Healing colours from Dulux

Sustainable clinic A new health centre has opened in the East Riding of Yorkshire, constructed using a highly sustainable recycled modular building from Foremans Relocatable Building Systems. The new purpose-designed centre was craned into position in just eight hours over a weekend.

The single-storey building has been clad in brickwork to complement its location in a conservation area.

Commenting on the project, Stephen Dale, Capital Projects Manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Primary Care Trust, said: “The use of a recycled building structure made our budgets go further, providing excellent value, as well as having a number of strong environmental benefits.”

info@foremansbuildings.co.uk enq 103

Dulux Trade has launched a new guide, Transforming the Healing Environment, designed to help specifiers use colour and design effectively in healthcare environments.

To aid understanding that different areas within healthcare establishments have different requirements and constraints, Dulux Trade has created a series of pre-designed, easy-touse colour schemes, divided by key spaces: public areas, patient accommodation and treatment rooms. Alongside colour advice, the resource also provides guidance on how specifiers can meet NHS Estates Health Technical Memorandum 56 (HTM 56). In addition, the guide also outlines how to use colour to meet the Equality Act. duluxtraderesponse@tangerinepr.com enq 104

Windows for world class college The new £53m Hartlepool College of Further Education features extensive use of architectural aluminium façade systems from Technal. Technal’s MX Visible Grid faceted curtain walling provides floor-to-ceiling glazing for the two-storey main entrance elevation and to the rear façade which spans four storeys and encloses the food court and Learning Core. The MX system was also used for the single-storey curtain walling to the workshop areas, a full height glazed entrance lobby and three stair towers. The curtain walling is complemented by more than 400 of Technal’s info@technal.co.uk enq 105 FXi65 high performance aluminium windows.

Modular systems offers library flexibility The University of Aberdeen’s new £57m library, which opened in September 2011, has been built using modular power and lighting distribution systems from Modular Wiring Systems, a subsidiary of electrical cable manufacturer Tratos Ltd. The prefabricated power and lighting distribution systems have been installed throughout the building under the floors, feeding all power and lighting points, including the desks and lighting in the bookcases themselves. Using Modular Wiring Systems’ distribution systems has provided the library with exceptional flexibility, allowing the desks to be moved and the layout altered, without the need to re-wire to re-route power. info@modwire.com enq 106

Framework agreement for Portakabin Government Procurement Service, an executive agency of the Cabinet Office, has awarded a four-year framework agreement to Portakabin for the supply of modular buildings to the public sector. As part of the new framework, customers selecting Portakabin will benefit from rapid procurement and cost-effective modular building solutions, avoiding costly, compulsory competitive tendering. The new framework agreement with Portakabin includes the supply of modular buildings for both sales and hire, and for applications such as offices, kitchens and restaurants, education facilities for nursery, primary, secondary and further education, and in the healthcare sector, buildings for consultation, patient information@portakabin.co.uk enq 107 accommodation and operating theatres.

Lift and learn Off-site construction specialist Yorkon, has been awarded a subcontract package to provide a twostorey modular classroom building for principal contractor Thomas Vale Construction and Ninestiles School – a new high-achieving academy in Birmingham. A 350-tonne crane will lift the steel-framed modules over the existing school and into an enclosed courtyard. Design features will include brick cladding to the ground floor with a contrasting white finish to the upper floor; windows, doors and aluminium cladding panels in anthracite grey; canopies above each set of entrance doors; a full height glazed stairwell, and a glazed link corridor to the main school building.

contact@yorkon.co.uk enq 108

Public Sector Build Journal 65

Kitchens

Appliances advance on energy efficiency One of the ways in which the affordable housing sector's approach to environmental issues and the welfare of their tenants has changed over recent years, has involved the adoption of a more holistic approach to energy saving. PSBJ takes a look at the appliance innovations Beko can offer to this growing market.

B

ack before Kyoto and a broad acceptance of the imperative to address global warming by cutting out carbon emissions, local authorities and housing associations were already working hard to deliver affordable warmth for their residents.

Exemplifying the scale of this challenge has been the Government-inspired ‘Retrofit for the Future’ programme – undertaken under the guidance of the Technology Strategy Board – where approximately 100 hard-to-heat, mainly non-traditional property types – have undergone dramatic interventions.

The solutions have almost all involved trying to improve the airtightness as well as the insulation standard of the building envelope, while also introducing renewable technologies such as heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar panels. The cost of these pilots has been prohibitive. Interestingly though, in a lot of instances, the greatest percentage of energy savings have come from the simplest and least expensive measures.

Space heating and the generation of domestic hot water inevitably account

66 Public Sector Build Journal

for the largest chunk of the tenants’ energy bills, while installing external wall insulation, ground collectors for heat pumps and solar thermal hot water systems always runs into tens of thousands of pounds. Yet what are referred to as the lighting and appliance packages have proved relatively affordable and often produced the best results.

On one project in the Midlands that was completed recently and which has undergone a meaningful period of monitoring, while spending well over £80k on a low carbon heating system and fabric insulation to achieve an 83 per cent improvement in energy cost, the lighting, appliances and controls represented an £18k investment, but gave a 93 per cent improvement.

This is a phenomenon that has been widely reflected in the experiences of customers purchasing products from the Beko range.

Moores Furniture, a major supplier of kitchens to the affordable sector – both for Decent Homes and new build work – reports its client base in the contract

■

The Beko/Moores partnership offers the social housing sector a one-stop-shop kitchen design, from cabinetry right through to built-in cooking, cooling and washing technology

market has responded well to the many positive attributes offered by the high quality electrical appliances.

Amongst the benefits which have helped win orders are high build quality, reliability and strong environmental credentials, as well as competitive pricing.

The Marketing Director for Moores Furniture, Robert Lawrence, comments: “Our experience of the Beko range has shown that the specification of the products – particularly with the A rating for energy usage on items like fridges, freezers and cookers – is proving very popular in the marketplace. Their Green credentials are very good.

“The partnership enables Moores to offer the social housing sector in particular, a one-stop-shop kitchen design, from cabinetry right through to built-in cooking, cooling and washing technology, with a wide range of integrated Beko appliances available to suit the décor of the room and blend seamlessly into the overall design.”

The Beko offering for Moores includes a choice of three single fan ovens and a double oven, all of which are rated A for energy efficiency and finished in stylish stainless steel, complemented by a matching chimney hood and built-in microwave with grill. The Moores Furniture Selection from the Beko Built-In Range is a choice of three hobs, gas, electric or ceramic and a selection of A-rated cooling appliances. The offering is completed by a triple-A rated built-in, full size dishwasher and an integrated washer dryer.

amanda.castle@beko.co.uk enq 109

There is a wide range of integrated Beko appliances to suit the décor of a room and blend seamlessly into the overall design

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Crags CragsIndustrial IndustrialPark, Park,Morven MorvenStreet, Street,Creswell, Creswell,Derbyshire, Derbyshire,S80S804AJ4AJ Crags Industrial Park, Morven Street, Creswell, Derbyshire, S80 4AJ Crags Crags Crags Industrial Industrial Industrial Park, Morven Morven Street, Creswell, Creswell, Creswell, Derbyshire, S80 S80 4AJ 4AJ 4AJ Tel:Tel:Park, 0844 0844Morven 99 9910010044Street, 44Street, Fax:Fax: 0844 08449999Derbyshire, 100Derbyshire, 100 5555 S80 Crags Industrial Park, Street, Creswell, Derbyshire, S80 4AJ Tel: 0844 99Morven 100 4444 Fax: 0844 9999 100 5555 Tel: Tel: 0844 0844 99 99 100 100 100 44 44 Fax: Fax: Fax: 0844 0844 0844 99 99 100 100 100 55 55 Tel: 0844 99 100 44 Web: Fax: 0844 99 100 55 E-Mail: sales@ybsinsulation.com Web: www.ybsinsulation.com E-Mail: E-Mail: E-Mail: sales@ybsinsulation.com sales@ybsinsulation.com sales@ybsinsulation.com Web: Web: www.ybsinsulation.com www.ybsinsulation.com www.ybsinsulation.com E-Mail: E-Mail: sales@ybsinsulation.com sales@ybsinsulation.com Web: Web: www.ybsinsulation.com www.ybsinsulation.com

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Online Enquiry 110

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