Magply

Magply Puts in Strong Performance at Bat and Ball Community Centre

A comprehensive refurbishment project, addressing a community centre belonging to Sevenoaks District Council, is featuring the benefits of Magply boards as the substrate for a through-coloured render system that will be exposed to rugged use, as well as the worst of the Kent weather.

The work on the Bat and Ball WCommunity Centre in Maidstone is being led by main contractor, the BJF Group with Theis + Khan Architects responsible for the design work. Epsom based Surrey Screed & Renders Ltd., meanwhile, is the specialist sub-contractor applying a K-Rend system across the Magply boards as well as an area of insulation panels.

The Site Agent for the BJF Group, David Murray, commented: “The final design for the refurbishment of the centre included creating a steel framed structure around the existing low pitched roof, in the form of a parapet. There is insulation over the old corrugated roof to improve energy performance, and a new single ply membrane running into internal gutters. Then a membrane was fitted across the outside of the steel framework, along with four by two (100 x 50 mm) timbers, to which our dry liner fixed the Magply boards ready for the rendering. I can’t speak highly enough of the work done by Surrey Screed & Renders who we’ve used before on other jobs. The completed areas look really good”. With the roof extending to 23 m in length, the total parapet is some 160m2 in area, with another 40m2 of the 12mm Magply boards having been rendered to create a bin store at the rear of the building, all supplied by EWI Store in Chessington, the UK’s largest stockist of render systems and materials. The K-Rend system itself comprises a base coat into which a mesh is set, followed by a primer and then the top coat finish.

The Managing Director of Surrey Screed and Renders, Matt Wray, confirmed: “As a specialist company we work right across the South-East from Milton Keynes down to the South coast and are an approved applicator for Weber systems as well as K-Rend which the architects specified here. Magply is a product we use a lot of as it works hand in hand with K-Rend: not only meeting all the performance criteria as a substrate, but being remarkably reasonably priced as well.”

Despite offering good adhesion for the decorative render system, Magply boards are far more moisture stable than rival products thanks to their modified MgO formulation that also represents an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB sheets. The production process keeps the chlorine content to just 0.01%, enhancing long-term durability, while Magply boards carry a variety of internationally recognised accreditations.

Speaking at the time of work beginning on the project, a spokesman for Theis + Khan said: “The new Bat & Ball Centre will now be a redevelopment of the existing community building. The existing structure is to be retained, but the building’s external envelope will be overclad and insulated with all doors and windows replaced. Internally, the building will be replanned and rationalised to reflect the latest brief and to meet or exceed current Building Regulations requirements. The interior will be completely refurbished throughout and the landscaping around the existing building will be refreshed.”

www.magply.co.uk

www.passivepurple.com

Marmox Multiboards Carry Marble-Mosaics Across Cinque Port Self-Build

A strikingly modern residential property in one of Kent’s most famous coastal towns is making articulate use of Marmox Multiboards as part of its cladding solution, around both the inside of an elevated balcony terrace, as well as across the main entrance elevation.

The 3600 sq. ft. fourbedroom self-build on Cliff Road in Hythe – one of the country’s historic Cinque Ports – has been constructed for Gerald Glover using a high performance SIP system to create a series of rectangular elements, stepping down the steeply sloping site; with natural, Multicolour Slate Split Face slips, other cladding materials surrounding the runs of triple glazing. Following an initial on-line search and consultations with the Marmox technical sales team, he opted to use 35 of their 12.5mm thick boards direct from the manufacturer, together with Marmox 360 adhesive, jointing tape and special metal washers which combine with the fixing screws. Gerald commented: “We originally gained planning permission for the house in 2015 and then spent a lengthy period in consultation with our engineer, specialist piling company GeMech and Mather & Smith Steelworks in regards to the topography of the site, it’s stability and the best and most economical way to achieve a supporting above ground structure of the OSB faced SIPS panels to work off. Completion is set for early 2021. We didn’t want the building to look ultra modern in the setting so have gone for a mix of exterior finishes, including multi-coloured stone slips from Marble Mosaics and the dark coloured Rockpanel Uni cladding panels which surround the main balcony. With the guidance of our consultant, OSG Architecture, we started searching for a cement particle or other suitable substrate board, before coming across Marmox Multiboard on the internet.”

“Given the elevated coastal position the boards had to be fully waterproof, while we also needed them to comply with fire regulations for exterior cladding use, but the lightness of Multiboard – enabling you to install large sections without difficulty – as well as the ease of cutting and fixing, were all additional attractions. We are now planning to use up the boards we have left over for fitting out the four en-suites, wherever there are areas of tiling or wet room situations. Multiboard is a very versatile product.” Externally the Multiboards are being fixed over a breathable membrane and timber battens at 300 mm centres with the use of the special Marmox sealant, jointing tape and washers ensuring the creation of a watertight surface. Marmox Multiboards are manufactured from extruded polystyrene or XPS encapsulated in reinforced polymer concrete, in a range of thicknesses up to 60mm and offer a variety of positive physical characteristics in addition to being fully waterproof. They are both light to handle and easy to cut, while still being able to sustain substantial loadings if required, such as for flooring applications. They further offer good thermal insulation performance, helping to cut condensation risk.

sales@marmox.co.uk

www.marmox.co.uk

OMNIE’s MVHR Systems at Heart of Sustainable Cotswold Development

The timeless appeal of the Cotswolds’ honey coloured stone has been redefined by a bespoke development creating two new homes in the beautiful village of Long Compton, where OMNIE has provided building services packages featuring heat recovery ventilation and renewable heating. The brace of luxury four-bedroom properties has been developed by locally based DG Carpenter on land adjoining an existing bungalow, using a stock of reclaimed Cotswold stone that the building company had stockpiled over a period of years: giving the project an authentic appearance not possible with reconstituted masonry products.

However, while period properties in the area can be hugely costly to heat, the highly insulated cavity wall construction has just passed the mandatory air leakage tests with flying colours . This means that air source heat pumps will supply the domestic hot water and feed warmth to the OMNIE underfloor heating circuits . Simon Carpenter, who runs the family firm their father established, with his brother Andy, reflects on the success of the project: “We bought the former gardens and tennis court, along with the old bungalow, from the owners who had already gained planning permission for two large homes. It was our decision, though, to go for a high specification and make use of the local stone we had available, as the outer elevation to a cavity wall build, featuring insulating blockwork and 75mm interlocking foam batts which still leaves a clear cavity of 25 to 75 mm, depending on how long the tail is to each stone as we cut them. “

“We’ve managed to carry on building, despite some disruption to supplies due to the pandemic, with the full services package coming via Jewson’s branch in Chipping Norton, while AJS Plumbing did all the installation work. OMNIE’s own engineer undertook the final commissioning in early August and we were also very pleased that the air leakage test gave us a score of 4 which is comfortably within the requirements of the Building Regulations. The OMNIE heat recovery systems will make sure the occupants benefit from fresh air supply while also saving energy.” The Zehnder ComfoAir Q heat recovery units offer industry leading performance figures yet fit neatly within a utility cupboard, while 90mm ductwork ensures ample air flow drawing warm moist air from the kitchen, utility and bathrooms, enabling them to supply tempered fresh air to the bedrooms and living areas. Within the past year OMNIE has also revised its range of Smart controls, which include room thermostats and a phone app. offering occupants whole-house control for optimum energy saving and comfort.

For further information on OMNIE’s range of MVHR systems, heat pumps, intelligent controls and underfloor heating solutions please visit

https://www.omnie.co.uk

CT1- The UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive British Technology, British Design, British Made.

• CT1 – The Snag List Eliminator- has been widely considered and voted on numerous times, as the UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive. • CT1 has lead the way in technology in the building industry for over 18 years, and continues to develop and introduce ground breaking technology.

A research and development department that clearly never sleeps. • CT1- who were the first to introduce the Hybrid Polymer to the market 18 years ago, introduced a product, revolutionary to the building trade where every trade person could use this sealant an adhesive, in just one tube.

All trades, Electricians, Joiners, Plumbers, Roofers, Tilers, maintenance and repair workmen would now only need 1 product. CT1. This was unheard of, a product that replaces several products in 1 tube, could also be used under water!. The technology is truly ground breaking. CT1 replaces mastic, wood and P.U adhesives, silicone, sanitary, acrylic and butyl rubber sealants in just 1 tube. With no solvents or isocyanates, it also makes CT1 the healthiest choice for your home. CT1 which boasts over 25 accreditations, makes CT1 the most eco friendly and safest product to use. CT1 is the only product globally to achieve a NAAF accreditation. The Norwegian Asthma and Allergy association are the highest authority globally, that test or award products, that either increase asthma or reduce asthma attacks in the home. CT1 being the most eco complaint product on the market, NAAF wanted to test CT1 to see how well it performed against allergies. CT1 under vigour testing for 3 months, proved that in fact CT1 would reduce the risk asthma and allergy attacks in the home. This is a huge unique added benefit using CT1.

Using CT1 in new builds, for repair and maintenance and upkeep of aged care facilities, Schools, Hospitals and all facilities that care of the vulnerable you know CT1 is the heathiest choice to use. Reducing asthma and allergy risk with the lowest indoor emissions possible, also adoring the EC1 plus green certificate. During these times, not only creating a healthy clean environment, but also keeping local jobs, and community thriving, purchasing CT1 being made in Britain, you are also helping keep British jobs safe. As we know Buying British over other counterpart products manufactured outside the UK, has become more prevalent as we need to keep jobs safe. But not only for general consumers also highly important for the building trade. A recent survey undertook by UKBathrooms.com, looked at 1,012 tradespeople, across the UK who work with bathroom fixtures and fittings for a true unbiased opinion. The results mirrored that of Made in Britain and several other leading reports that buying British products is paramount in their decision making process. 47% agreeing that British Made Products are superior, with the majority of fitter’s option to buy from UK Manufactures when they can. Questions such as this were asked :

• “Do you regularly purchase British made bathroom fittings?” With 67% answering ‘yes’ to this. When asked why, reliability was the most common reason with 57% explaining that British made products tended to have better longevity. 35% also cited that support was much better, as any problems with UK items could be easily fixed. 24% even said they simply preferred the “design and style” of the home products! So Buying CT1 would in fact be the preferred sealant of choice, with majority of competitor sealants being manufactured outside the UK. Often technical helplines, onsite visits, live demonstrations unavailable.

Concerns over the environment also features as an important motivator with 7/10 brits buy British as they can help the nation combat climate change. CT1 also reduces carbon footprint, as landfills are filled with 1000’s of empty cartridges, from building sites, using numerous sealants for many jobs. Now you only need 1 tube, CT1

Buy British Buy CT1.

Ravatherm XPS X used for The Peninsula This is the subtitle and it goes somewhere near the heading like this London, a prestigious new hotel project for The Hongkong and Shangai Hotels, Limited, managed by Prime Development

The quality of Ravago Building Solution products has been recognised by the UK’s leading specialist building envelope contractor Prater, who utilised Ravatherm XPS X 300 SL and MK for Prime Development’s new luxury London hotel and apartment project. Set to open in 2022, the exclusive Belgravia development has been insulated with an impressive 2000m2 of high-performance Ravatherm products.

Launched in 2016, Ravatherm XPS 300 SL is Ravago’s next generation XPS thermal insulation for inverted flat roof applications. With a declared lambda of 0.030 or 0.031 and a coveted

BRE Green Guide Rating A+, the shiplapped edged boards are the superior choice for exceptionally stable, energy efficient insulation. The Ravatherm XPS X MK filter/water-flow-reducing layer further improves thermal performance, by minimising heat loss and thus reducing the volume of insulation required.

Chris Gimson, Commercial Director UK & Ireland,

Ravago Building Solutions, said: “Prime Development have ensured that the prestigious new Peninsula Hotel uses only the very best products in its construction, right down to the insulation. It’s wonderful to know that

Ravatherm XPS X insulation will take pride of place in such a spectacular flagship hotel overlooking Buckingham Palace Garden.”

A spokesperson from Prime Development said: “As specialists in standard-setting premium development, all of our projects are completed to the highest specification. Ravago, having a 60-year legacy as market-leading manufacturers of insulation, fit our vision for the prestigious Peninsula London development perfectly.

Braving the Storms

With Winter fast approaching the weather has undoubtedly already taken a turn for the worse. After basking in days of sunshine we are now heading for wet and rainy days as the British weather sets in, and issues will, no doubt, start to arise with poorly maintained roofs.

Weather conditions can be harsh on exterior structures, and changes from hot to cold temperatures make their mark on coatings and coverings exposed to the climates and UV radiation throughout the year. Cracking, peeling, blistering, thermal stress, surface erosion of protective roofing membranes are all common problems related to weathering which ultimately results in installation failures and subsequent expensive leaks and structural damages to repair or put right. Ideally it is best to prevent these problems arising by first considering the design of the roof and choice of materials. The roof membrane or compounds chosen should reflect the characteristics and purpose of the building and ultimately avoid the roof to fail prematurely through wrongly specified products. Using materials that are not intended for application on specific roof types can also result in permanent damage to the roof. In fact, you can make a small problem worse through an improper repair with the wrong choice of product. At Bond It, we have tried to make choosing the right product a simple process. We offer a wide range of roofing products to cover all aspects of roofing from combating leaks to improving efficiency. Under our Bitubond brand we have put together everything you need as a Professional Roofer for new build and maintenance projects which provide immediate and safe waterproofing solutions. Products that have been designed and manufactured for the job in hand. Available in an array of sizes the Roofing portfolio encompasses waterproofing compounds, high performance solar reflective solutions, all weather roof compounds, primers, felt adhesive, selfadhesive flashing tapes, DPC, chipping solution, and tanking membranes. All high quality, UK manufactured products with tried and tested formulations that have been used in the industry for nearly 2 decades. All ready to use from the tins and requiring no heavy heating equipment to apply, the range is simple but effective. In addition to the bitumen products, Sealacryl, our fibre-reinforced acrylic waterproofing roof coating, is designed to prevent the ingress of water. For renovation of all types of roof structure it provides instant waterproof protection of flat and pitched roofs. Available in 3 colours, it bridges small gaps and cracks, has superb solar reflectivity, and remains fully flexible. Primerless adhesion for the repair and refurbishment of industrial and domestic roofs. It can also be applied in wet conditions so it doesn’t mean rain stops play! Patination Oil is also one of our roofing stable mates. A white spirit based liquid that can be used to coat newly laid or cleaned lead. A layer of oil helps protect the lead from the elements and prevents carbonate formation (white staining) on the surface and surrounding brickwork. Once treated it leaves the newly laid lead with a professional, clean, metallic finish. Used in conjunction with our Flash-Mate Lead Sealant we’ve got it covered from all angles!

Continuous research and development enables us to extend the diverse portfolio of products manufactured at our West Yorkshire base. As on going development identifies new and improved formulations we have also now launched the next generation 100% waterproofing barrier. Seal It Liquid Membrane one coat roof seal is an easy to apply barrier offering a modern alternative to traditional GRP, PU, and bitumen roof coatings. Highly reflective, solvent-free and non-flammable it is formulated for professional roofing installations without the need for special application training. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with a primer, reinforcement mat and edging and trimming sealer in more demanding situations. Altogether the system delivers a high performance, watertight, and extremely durable barrier coating for all existing roof substrates which is guaranteed for 25 years. Creating an impermeable seal to repel water damage and provide resistance to degradation from natural weathering like rain, snow and sunlight. This product remains permanently flexible once cured and will not harden or soften even under extremes of weather, temperature, UV radiation and external chemical attack and will not crack or tear through thermal expansion of the structure it is covering. It also has excellent resistance to ageing, ultra-violet attack and discolouration. Supplied in 5 and 20L tins and available in grey and white. Launching this month, we have developed Seal It Accelerator which means roofing work can still carry on even when the weather is against you. A gel-like additive, that once mixed with the Seal It Liquid Membrane, accelerates the curing process allowing for installations to be carried out at temperatures below 5oC and permits work to be performed down to an impressive minus 20oC. The gel is simply added into the membrane and, once mixed, helps to facilitate full cure at normal speed, on average 1mm per 24hrs. Supplied in 1L plastic bottles for easy dosing, the additive requires no special applicators. This is a simple system in every way that is a costeffective alternative to traditional roof coverings.

For more information contact our Sales Team on 01422 315300 or visit our website www.bonditgroup.com.

Banking on Gilberts to help achieve excellence

Even the choice of ventilation diffusers has played a part the architectural aesthetics in a landmark office development precited to achieve a BREEAM excellent rating.

Sleekness is the over-riding theme of 100 Embankment, a 15,000ft2 premium Grade A office development over nine floors in the heart of Manchester. BAM Construct UK commissioned

A & B Engineering to design and install the M&E services for the project, which blends an existing Grade II listed viaduct with the steel and glass building above. A & B chose Gilberts Blackpool for the supply of more than 500 ventilators to air the internal spaces. Gilberts’ PG perforated face ventilation diffusers, complimented by its GSFA circular swirl diffusers, ensure excellent distribution of fresh air throughout the internal space and mirror the smooth, angular interior design. “Gilberts’ diffusers were the ideal choice to balance the design aesthetics with the practicalities of installation,” explained A & B Engineering Contracts Director Ian Buxton. “The main office areas have exposed services. By using side entry plenum boxes to connect the flexible ductwork to the diffusers, we were able to easily connect the services, then secure the diffusers through using concealed fixings. In this way we were able to achieve the continuity of eyeline and aesthetic whilst delivering on the draught-free ventilation targets. “We know from experience that Gilberts can be relied upon to deliver what we need, within the timeframes, with the capability to design and engineer solutions that achieve the objectives.” The PG perforated diffusers were specified as a combination of some solely supply and some solely extract, whilst the GSFA swirl diffusers provide predominantly supply air as they enable rapid entrainment and intermixing of high volumes of air into the conditioned space. Gilberts GX air valves provide extraction of stale air in the toilet areas throughout 100 Embankment.

Gilberts’ grilles and diffusers are proven to help achieve exemplar aesthetics and sustainability, with an established catalogue of BREEAM excellent-rated projects. The company has a reputation for excellence, not just in its products but its service, in-house design, manufacturing and test capability, and after-sales support. It continues to invest in its services, most recently with state-of-the-art fabrication machinery, new powder paint lines, and extended warehousing facilities, to meet the growing demand for its solutions as Britain opens for business.

Find out more @ www.gilbertsblackpool.com.

The so-called Testbed 80 was recently turned on at the Derby, UK site. Prior, RSS was asked to provide lifting, rigging, and load monitoring expertise. The site’s prime contractor is MDS Aero Support Corporation. RSS accepted a scope of work to proof load test the T-bolt system underneath the thrust measurement system (TMS) and lift platform. Following Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), which evaluates equipment during and after the assembly process by verifying that it is built and operating in accordance with design specifications, RSS delivered the required third-party thorough examinations. Steve Hutin, managing director at RSS, explained that the load tests were completed in four configurations: forward, starboard; forward, port; aft, starboard; and aft, port. The safe working load (SWL) of the system is 25t, but a proof load test to 31.25t was conducted, with the load split in four points: 15,233kg, 11,089kg, 2,852kg and 2,076kg (total 31,250kg). Hutin added: “We then rotated clockwise covering the four points, so we effectively tested it four times.” Much of the rigging gear was readily available or provided by site-based contractors, while PP Engineering supplied test weights, cradles, chain slings and a mobile crane. RSS sourced two 20t capacity and two 3t capacity hand chain blocks that combined with a fleet of load monitoring equipment, including four Crosby | Straightpoint 25t capacity Loadlink plus load cells, a 12t capacity Accuway and a 6.5t capacity Dynafor load monitoring system. Readings were taken wirelessly and recorded for the client. Offsite, RSS conducted a further 32t tensile test on a 16t SWL hoist engine mount. Hutin alluded to the high profile of the sight, pointing out that, at the time of going to press, Testbed 80 had successfully completed its first engine run. Larger than a football

Rope and Sling Completes Load Tests at Rolls-Royce

Rope and Sling Specialists Ltd. (RSS) has completed proof load tests on Rolls-Royce’s new testbed for the Trent family of engines.

pitch, the testbed conducted its first run on a Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engine. The project has been under construction for almost three years. Hutin said: “I read an article recently saying the Derby site represents the world’s largest and smartest aerospace engine test rig. But more notable, it seems that Testbed 80 is built with changing the future of aerospace in mind, principally in terms of decarbonisation. To play a part, even as a third-party testing company, in such a landmark project is hugely rewarding. Utilisation of state-of-the-art load monitoring technology is a pre-requisite to working at such sites.” Testbed 80 will be officially opened within months.

Examinetics Announces Strategic Investment In Kenzen

Smart PPE to help clients stay safe and avoid workplace injury

Examinetics, the nation’s leading provider of workplace safety compliance services, today announced a strategic investment in Kenzen, innovator of a wearable device to reduce workplace injuries by providing continuous temperature monitoring of workers. Examinetics is a portfolio company of Freedom 3 Capital.

Examinetics President and CEO Paul Fenaroli stated: “Examinetics is committed to working with our clients to keep America’s workers safe, healthy and productive. As the nation’s leading provider of occupational health solutions, we see wearable technologies as the next phase of protection for employees. Kenzen has developed and tested an elegant solution for real-time employee safety through the detection of heat stresses to the body. This is the first of what we expect will be several investments in the wearable technologies space in the upcoming years.”

In addition to the investment, the companies have entered into a marketing agreement under which Examinetics will introduce Kenzen technologies to its clients. “As a leader in the field, we have a responsibility to bring our clients new and emerging solutions that we believe advance their employee health and safety goals. With over 3,000 clients nationwide, we have the reach and access to health and safety executives in substantially every industrial sector,” said Fenaroli.

Kenzen Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer Heidi Lehmann added: “The Kenzen solution is gaining momentum. This alliance with Examinetics will broaden the team of safety experts who can work closely with clients to train teams and onboard employees to the technology before work heats up this summer.” As climates get more extreme, heat stresses to workers – which can lead to serious injury – are on the rise. Heat affects the worker’s health and productivity and a company’s safety and financial results. Safety professionals increasingly want real data to predict and prevent heat issues, while protecting workers’ personal health privacy; the Kenzen solution is designed to provide both.

About Examinetics

Examinetics is the nation’s leading provider of occupational health solutions through mobile, onsite, and technology platforms. Our comprehensive suite of occupational health services delivers strategic value to more than 3,000 clients in over 15,000 locations annually. Leading companies partner with Examinetics to achieve regulatory compliance, minimize productivity loss, and acquire vital data required for optimal health outcomes. We call this “Insight x Onsite.”

About Freedom 3 Capital

Freedom 3 Capital (F3C) is a private investment firm, providing capital to nonsponsored middle market companies. Headquartered in New York City, F3C opened its Kansas City office in 2019 to better serve Midwesternbased family and entrepreneur owned businesses needing capital investment for strategic acquisitions, expansion or to refinance existing capital structures.

For more information visit www.freedom3.com.

About Kenzen

Founded in 2016, Kenzen is the premier physiological monitoring platform to keep industrial workforces safe from heat, over exertion and illness on the job. For more information

about heat stress and how to integrate the system into a

safety plan, visit Kenzen.com.

The Crosby Group Launches Global Vaccine Support Program

Program Allows for Team Members to Take Time Away From Work to Get Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Without Impacting Their Paychecks

The Crosby Group, a global leader in lifting, rigging, and load securement hardware, announced its Vaccine Support Program to facilitate the ability of its team members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Available to all employees globally, the program provides team members with four additional hours of sick leave, paid time off, or equivalent to offset any work time missed after completion of the COVID-19 vaccine. Local site leadership will also work with team members to accommodate and support individuals experiencing postvaccine side-effects that may impact their ability to safely come to work.

Robert Desel, CEO of The Crosby Group, said: “Safety is core to who we are, and we don’t want our employees choosing between getting the vaccine and earning a full paycheck. Our Vaccine Support Program removes that barrier and supports our team of essential workers. Throughout the pandemic, we have been committed to our core value of Safety, both for our employees and our customers. This program is the next logical step in doing our part to keep our team members, their families, and the communities in which we operate safe.” At the onset of the pandemic, The Crosby Group formed a Pandemic Safety Council with internal leadership and outside medical experts to monitor and advise on best practices. This led to a multifaceted safety program to stop the spread of COVID-19 including: work from home, travel restrictions and guidelines, site health screening procedures, social distancing policies, increased cleaning protocols, virtual customer support and training, modified and flexible work schedules, and other mitigation measures consistent with the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).

“A safe and healthy team is critical to our mission of supplying lifting, rigging, and securement products that are used in manufacturing, defense, and infrastructure development,” continued Desel. “As an essential business, we are proud to support the safety of our team, communities, and customers.”

www.thecrosbygroup.com

Gallagher Premiership Rugby Club Wasps have appointed Warwickshire-based construction firm Wigley Building & Development to create its new high performance centre.

Wasps have bought a former sports and leisure centre in Henley-in-Arden, after choosing it as the site for a state-of-the-art training base.

The construction firm, part of The Wigley Group based in Stockton, will carry out all the building, renovation and improvement works including upgrading an artificial pitch into an RFU compliant 3G+ surface, converting an existing area into a new training pitch, and the transformation of a former storage area into a new full size training pitch. Internal works on the site on Stratford Road will include the creation of a purpose-built gym, offices for coaching and administration staff, media centre and medical complex. The £2m construction contract will also see extensive renovations of the 13-acre site. When finished, it will be the first permanent training ground for the club which has been based at Broadstreet Rugby Club in Coventry since moving to the region in December 2014. Wasps men’s team play their home games at Ricoh Arena, also in Coventry. Charlie Brooks, Construction Director at Wigley Building & Development said: “This is a major project for the future of Wasps, for the region and also for our company. “We are delighted to have been selected not only as it is a prestigious contract for us to undertake, but also because, as a group, we are big supporters of Wasps and it is great to see them put down more roots in our area. “The work will create a state-of-the art complex which is designed to help the club move forward to even greater heights on the field. The club is a major asset to our region and we are thrilled to be working with it in further increasing their presence.” Work on the pitches will be completed in the summer with completion due for the start of the next season. Stephen Vaughan, Wasps Group Chief Executive, said: “We are really excited to see The Wigley Group starting work on a home for our men’s first team and academy. “It has been the missing part of the jigsaw for us and we believe it will help accelerate our plans to build a team which is consistently pushing for honours at the top end of the game. “When completed, it will be one of the finest training complexes in English rugby and we are very much looking forward to this new chapter. “Our move to Coventry and Warwickshire was a massive step for the club. In a relatively short space of time we have established ourselves in the area, attracting some of the largest attendances in English rugby, have established a successful Wasps Netball side and an award-winning community programme, which we are keen to develop in our new location.

“We have been really grateful to Broadstreet for hosting us for the past six years and naturally we have formed a very close bond with the club, but all the players are very excited about moving to a permanent and cutting-edge training centre which we can call home.”

The Wigley Group was founded in 1964 and Wigley Building & Development was established when it merged with main contractor Ciexbe four years ago. James Davies, Managing Director of The Wigley Group, added: “This is a very exciting project which gets 2021 off to a very good start for the company, and we are looking forward to creating not only a fantastic facility, but one that will also help Wasps continue their success which has been so good for our region.”

Kier record 82% reduction in repeat visits thanks to UltraCrete Tough Patch®

Leading UK construction and infrastructure services company, Kier, had received concerns from repair crews across a number of different depots, that there was an inconsistency in both their approach to pothole repairs and how long the repairs lasted in each area. After working closely with market-leading highway specialists, UltraCrete, Kier have recorded a massive 82% reduction in repeat visits to the same pothole repair site.

Background

Kier reviewed all data from pothole repairs between April 2019 and January 2020 to get a clear picture on the problems they faced. The data collected showed that, during this period, there were 98 instances, split across 17 routes, where a repeat visit had been made to repair a pothole.

The Challenge

When trying to find an explanation for this worrying data, Kier discovered that there were a number of discrepancies in the way repairs were being carried out, meaning that some repairs didn’t last as long as anticipated.

It was, therefore, of the utmost importance that Kier could find a way to address these inconsistencies in order to minimise the number of interventions on the network.

The Solution

Market-leading highway specialists, UltraCrete worked alongside Kier to review their processes to help find a solution.

Dave Youell, Strategic Account Manager, and Nick Holmes, Technical Training and Support Manager at UltraCrete, held remote discussions with Kier and recommended Tough Patch® as the ideal solution for their problems.

Tough Patch® is a PTS PAS approved, cold lay surface material for road repairs, which utilises a reactive binder that rapidly cures to create a first time, permanent repair that will accept traffic immediately after installation. By utilising Tough Patch®, the amount of time needed for closures on a highway can be reduced, resulting in a significantly safer working environment for the Keir operatives carrying out the work.

Quick and easy to apply, Tough Patch® can be used to repair defects in pavements, driveways, car parks and on high speed roads – it even provides a first time permanent repair in wheel turning locations such as junctions, traffic lights and roundabouts.

As part their partnership, both Nick and Dave visited a number of Kier’s pothole crews to discuss any questions or issues the operatives had, and finally, to demonstrate the best way to apply and use Tough Patch® to maximise the effectiveness of the material.

The Results

Having one superior pothole repair material and standardising the process of repairing potholes has resulted in a huge reduction of interventions.

Of the original 98 instances identified where a repeat visit was required, after using Tough Patch® between February and April 2020, only 21 sites were revisited, resulting in an 82% reduction on repeat visits.

For more information on Tough Patch® and how UltraCrete can help you reduce the number of repeat visits to site, please contact their team of highway specialists by emailing ultracrete@instarmac.co.uk or calling +44 (0) 1827 254402. You can also arrange an appointment by contacting UltraCrete on any of their social media platforms. 27

Alcumus Recognised as a Leader in Independent Review of Global EHS Software Vendors

Alcumus, a leading provider of technology-led risk management solutions, has been recognised by independent research and advisory firm Verdantix as a Leader in its 2021 EHS Software Green Quadrant for its market-leading capabilities in chemicals management, quality management and contractor safety management . This achievement is based on 22 vendors evaluated in the report and improves on its previous placement as a Challenger in the 2019 benchmark.

The Verdantix EHS Software Green Quadrant is globally renowned for its expert insights of the most prominent EHS software vendors in the market. Based on a proprietary methodology, the independent review focuses on live product demonstrations, vendor responses to a 383-point questionnaire and findings from a global survey of 301 EHS decision-makers across 25 industries and 31 countries.

Dedicated to helping over 40,000 customers take care of their people, customers and the environment, Alcumus is one of only a few vendors to score strongly across the full solution spectrum laid out in the research.

Since its first inclusion in the 2019 report, Alcumus has grown its business and customer portfolio, launching a range of market-leading product offerings and making strategic acquisitions in core geographic markets. In August 2019, Alcumus acquired Toronto-based SaaS cloud EHS software provider eCompliance and in 2020, continued its expansion in the UK and North America with two new acquisitions, Banyard Solutions and

ContractorCheck. The acquisitions further add to the proven portfolio of risk management products, which includes SafeContractor, Info Exchange and Sypol, providing an even more tailored service offering and expertise to match client needs.

Alcumus’s integrated software platform enables effective management of operational risk through digitisation of processes often siloed, such as health and safety, environmental, supply chain management, and workplace access.

Helen Jones, Chief Operating Officer Enterprise at Alcumus said: “We’re delighted to be recognised as a Leader in the 2021 Verdantix EHS Software Green Quadrant. This report sets the tone and describes the changing dynamics for a sector that Alcumus will lead through our focus on innovation and integration.

This is further validation of our vision to create better workplaces, keep people safe, reduce risks and simplify processes.”

Alcumus Welcomes Government Action to Strengthen Modern Slavery Act and Prevent Human Rights Violations

The UK Government has announced new measures that place stricter requirements on British organisations involved in exporting or sourcing goods from China’s Xinjiang region, strengthening the rules around modern slavery in the supply chain. In response to allegations of forced labour, companies found to be complicit in or profiting from human rights violations will be subject to significant financial penalties and excluded by UK public bodies, with details to be set out at a later date.

sure there is no slavery in their supply chains. That will now be backed up by the threat of heavy fines for companies that fail to comply.

Helen Jones, Chief Operating Officer Enterprise at Alcumus said: “Exposure to exploitation and Modern Slavery through international supply chains has been a growing risk for UK businesses in a globalised environment. The new measures are a much needed and welcome step forward that reinforces the need for UK businesses to take action to protect victims and make sure companies actively audit, investigate and reduce exploitation within their supply chains.

With supply chains now able to stretch the globe with relative ease, this brings a heightened risk of awareness of working conditions and compliance gaps, making it more likely that unethical practices can go undetected. The effort required to maintain an awareness of the operations within supply chains is a substantial commitment without specialist support.”

The new measures extend the reporting obligations under the Modern Slavery Act to include public sector bodies such as government departments and agencies, and aim to exclude from public procurement any companies which are found to have forced labour from Xinjiang in their supply chains.

In an address to the Commons, the Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, announced new financial and civil penalties for organisations that fail to comply and future guidance on how to carry out due diligence checks.

A Private Members Bill – the Public Contracts (Modern Slavery) Bill – introduced in the House of Lords in 2020, is also seeking to create a positive duty in public sector procurement to “avoid the commission of services from economic operators engaged in modern slavery.”

“We welcome the Government’s position to take a stronger lead in guiding companies to meaningful compliance and ethical practices to eradicate unacceptable human rights violations in all forms” says Alyn Franklin, CEO of Alcumus, the UK’s leading provider of risk management solutions which help support 40,000 UK businesses to identify and mitigate Modern Slavery risks across their supply chains.

The International Labour Organization currently estimates that there are 24.9 million victims of modern-day slavery or forced labour globally[1] , with key drivers being globalization, supply chain complexity, informal employment practices and government ambivalence.

Under the Modern Slavery Act, firms with a turnover of more than £36 million must publish statements setting out what action they have taken to make To be able to accurately manage, record and compare data across large networks, organisations can realise significant benefits from digital compliance solutions that embed responsible practices, management oversight and help to avoid inadvertently allowing forced labour in their supply chains.

Gemma Archibald, Chief Operating Officer SME at Alcumus said: “Ultimately, the best way to stop Modern Slavery across supply chains is through the adoption of enhanced and reliable awareness and accountability. Businesses, large and small, need to take the necessary steps and due diligence to adopt meaningful checks and take remedial action, which will go a long way to pushing modern slavery out of legitimate supply chains.”

[1] http://www.antislaverycommissioner.co.uk/about-modernslavery/modern-slavery-globally/#:~:text=The%20International%20 Labour%20Organization%20(ILO,more%20on%20the%20 Resources%20page).