TICA, together with the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), first raised their concerns over the suitability of pre-insulated pipework and ductwork product, when utilised inside buildings, in July 2022.

Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Policy Manager said “Twelve months after our initial communications it has become necessary for TICA to raise this issue again. BS 5422:2023 now defines Reaction to Fire in terms of the Euroclass system and states a minimum performance of Euroclass C-s3, d2 in dwelling applications and B-s3, d2 in non-dwelling applications. Many pre-insulated systems that are being marketed for use inside of buildings simply do not meet these criteria.”

In addition, TICA is raising questions over the testing regimes employed by some manufacturers of pre-insulated pipe and duct systems.

“We are seeing vastly differing reaction to fire results for products that appear to be of a similar nature,” added Chris. “In some cases, the testing processes adopted by manufacturers of pre-insulated product appear to have diverged from the agreed testing methods commonly understood for traditional thermal insulation products.

“Ultimately, manufacturers are marketing a system by combining pipe and duct products with an insulation product – this cannot negate the responsibility of testing the insulation element to the prescribed standards.”

TICA has also highlighted the fact that some pre-insulated products are being marketed for applications where they simply cannot meet the required maximum heat loss requirements prescribed in BS 5422:2023 and Approved Document L Volumes 1 & 2.

Chris said: “Those responsible for specifying and installing pre-insulated systems should be prepared to ask some detailed questions first. Ultimately, this is not just a combination of products but a junction of trades.

“No-one would automatically assume that a thermal insulator is competent to install or specify pipework and ductwork – why, then, should we assume that a ductwork contractor or pipework contractor is competent to install or specify thermal insulation?” 

BS 5422:2023 applies to thermal insulating materials for pipes, tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment operating between-40ºc and +700ºc. The first update in since 2009, it is the cornerstone of UK thermal insulation standards, setting out minimum levels of performance for different operating conditions.

TICA can provide further information, complete with a list of questions that can be put to manufacturers and distributors of pre-insulated products, upon request.

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Yesterday, James Latham, one of the UK’s leading independent distributors of architectural materials and finishes, announces the UK and Ireland launch of Swiss Krono’s One World collection.

Specially curated for James Latham, One World brings together 37 of Swiss Krono’s highly sought-after, premium melamines in one place.

Offering a near-unrivalled variety of patterns and textures, One World covers all the bases, including monotone, woodgrain, material reproduction and design surfaces.

Unlocking creativity, One World’s surfaces can be continually combined in new and interesting ways, opening up a diverse range of design possibilities and firing the imagination of any specifier, daring them to mix, match and experiment.

A cornucopia of decors 

Available across all James Latham’s 14 UK and Ireland depots, the distributor possesses a full stock holding of black, white and standard carcass decors, with three distinct collections: UNI, Woodgrain and Camustyle TX. 

Taking a closer look:

UNI: From subtle to bold, and beautiful in their simplicity, this collection comprises a wide variety of on-trend colours, updated on a regular basis to ensure everything ‘in fashion’ is always available.

Woodgrain: features realistic oak, elm, chestnut and walnut finishes with a timeless and elegant finish that will enhance any style.

Camustyle TX: Inspired by limestone and textile surfaces, these sophisticated decors feature an impressive vintage look and a rugged texture, offering massive creative potential for furnishings and interior design at an affordable price point.  

Form and Function

The quality of the One World range is not just skin deep. Lightweight and simple to fabricate and install, it’s suitable for a variety of commercial and residential internal surfacing applications, from furniture and shop-fittings to kitchens, bedrooms, hotels, and offices.

PEFC certified, the range meets the new low-emission class of ED2020 (E0.5), halving the formaldehyde content of E1 melamines.

Available in the UK and Ireland from James Latham, One World comes as 2800 x 2070 x 18mm sheets.

For more information on the One World Collection, click here.

For more information on James Latham’s award-winning distribution services, click here.

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Signify, the world leader in lighting, is supporting Sefton Council’s climate action by upgrading the borough’s public lighting to energy-efficient LED. The project includes the upgrade of 26,000 light points on traffic routes, roads, streets, and residential areas. The phased program will be completed in 2025 and is expected to reduce annual maintenance by 45%, saving the council over 7,161,500 kWh energy per year/£1.8 million per year on energy costs following the completion (based on average and estimated prices 2021-2025), as the lighting installed uses up to 70% less energy, when compared to the existing HID lighting installed.The reduction in ongoing energy costs is expected to pay for the project in full within 8 years. The upgrade is even more important against the backdrop of the ongoing energy crisis. This upgrade takes the council closer to its goal of leading to net zero carbon by 2030.

In July 2019, Sefton Council declared a climate emergency and enacted a plan to reduce its environmental impact through energy efficiency and carbon reduction projects, leading to net zero carbon by 2030. By upgrading public lighting within the borough, the council can contribute to its goals to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption while also reducing long-term maintenance and improving the street environment for residents and visitors.

Sefton has been on its path to net carbon zero since 2020, but skyrocketing energy prices and the need for safer streets for pedestrian and highway users have raised the urgency of replacing outdated technology with alternatives that are long lasting, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Signify’s Philips LumiStreet gen2 LED luminaries were selected for the project. LED lighting is a safe, highly effective alternative to older technologies like the High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps that were previously in place within the borough of Sefton. LED lamps can produce excellent light levels using far less energy than their conventional counterparts and require little ongoing maintenance. According to Signify’s own data, if the entire UK&I region followed the example of Sefton Council and switched all conventional road and streetlights to LED, the country could save 603 thousand tonnes of carbon and £520 million per year in energy costs.

In addition, the LED lights offer improved colour rendering which helps CCTV recognition, creating a greater sense of well-being and security for people in the area. LED lights can be more precisely focused on roads and paths to minimise any intrusion into homes or gardens. A neutral white colour was selected for the project to maintain a pleasant night-time atmosphere while maintaining excellent visibility.

Sefton Council worked with Jones Lighting to carry out trials comparing results from different manufacturers to assess their relative quality and efficiency. Signify’s lighting solution impressed the council with its design, performance, and total cost of ownership, which considers how the initial project investment is offset by the energy savings achieved by converting existing lighting to LED. The reduction in ongoing energy costs is expected to pay for the project in full within 8 years.

“The LED upgrade is a significant step forward towards Sefton Councils’ commitment to becoming net zero by 2030. Additionally, the streets are now lit better than before to ensure citizens can feel more confident and secure during the evenings or nights. A great win for the citizens and the borough’’ said Dave Jones, Managing Director, Jones Lighting.

“After an extensive test of the market in which we reviewed the lanterns performance and costs followed on site trails, we determined that Signify would be our preferred manufacturer for the LED conversion scheme.” Said Mark Bond, Senior Street Lighting Engineer at Sefton Council. “Signify’s lanterns provided us with excellent output in terms of lighting performance and energy efficiency. After working with Signify and its logistics team, we’ve been very pleased with delivery timescales and overall performance.”

“Addressing climate change is the most urgent issue of our age,” said Dervan Alleyne, Director Public Lighting and Sports Lighting, Signify UKI. “The lighting upgrade reinforces how lighting can contribute to the council’s agenda and the environment. We are proud to support Sefton Council in its journey to net zero and at the same time, create an improved experience for local people and visitors.”

Learn more about the impact of switching to LED on Signify’s website.

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From October 2023, buildings of at least 18 metres in height or with at least seven storeys containing at least two residential units will be deemed ‘high risk buildings’ and must be registered with the newly established Building Safety Regulator.

The registration must be made by the organisation or person who owns or has responsibility for the building referred to as the Principal Accountable Person.  Principal Accountable Persons could include housing associations, property management companies or individual managers or asset owners.

A Principal Accountable Person who fails to register an occupied higher-risk building without a ‘reasonable excuse’ will be liable to either a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years.

Stuart Dover, general manager of AEI Cables, said: “Those who are deemed to be the Principal Accountable Person should recognise their responsibilities. There can be no compromise when it comes to the selection of cables for fire safety and they should always meet the legal requirement. If in doubt, they should always check the relevant level of performance required.

“Ultimately, we are talking about the threat to lives and property if the products installed in these tall buildings are not fit for purpose.”

The Principal Accountable Person must have assessed all building safety risks and taken all reasonable steps to control them, give the safety case report to the Regulator on request and apply for a building assessment certificate.

AEI Cables has also been communicating the dangers of not following the technical guidance for the selection and installation of cables for Category 3 Control fire performance cables under the revised British Standard BS8519: 2020.

The systems powered by these cables – including smoke and heat extraction systems – assist fire services in firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety. Category 3 Control fire performance cables reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases and flame spread in the event of a real fire.

AEI Cables is the only supplier in the UK with independent approval from LPCB for BS8519 Category 3 Control fire performance cables with a fire survival time of up to 120 minutes.

Using the very latest in technology and science, the Firetec Total Fire Solutions range offers Mineral Insulated Cabling (MIC), Firetec Enhanced fire performance cabling, accessories and technical support from the AEI Cables distribution facility at Washington, Tyne and Wear.

All AEI Cables’ products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB. It also holds approvals from organisations including Lloyds, the MoD, Network Rail and LUL and works to international standards around the world. For more information see the AEI Cables website, tel 0191 410 3111 or email sales@aeicables.co.uk.

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Schneider Electric, Robus LED Group and CompEx have all joined the 25 existing Associates who have built mutually beneficial relationships with SELECT’s member businesses over the past 18 months.

The three new Associate Members will now be able to engage with SELECT’s experts and members, enjoy access to a wealth of services and benefits and work with the organisation to share the latest ideas and in-depth knowledge to the advantage of the wider industry.

Iain Mason, Director of Membership and Communications at SELECT, said: “Everyone at SELECT is delighted that enterprises of the size and stature of Schneider Electric, Robus and CompEx have joined our Associate Membership scheme.

“Becoming an Associate is an opportunity for partner organisations to build stronger relationships with key players in the electrical contracting industry, and also to ally themselves with an established and successful trade body.”

SELECT, which represents around 1,250 electrical firms and 15,000 contractors across the country, launched the scheme early in 2022 to help develop a mutually complementary network of industry-specific partners.

Mr Mason added: “Since its launch, the scheme has proved extremely popular and has allowed Associates to speak to our members both through our print and digital channels and also face-to-face at the many events we run across Scotland throughout the year.

“It has also strengthened our own relationship with some of the industry’s most renowned names and allowed us to develop and grow events such as our Toolbox Talks, President’s Cup and President’s Lunch.”

Schneider Electric, which traces its history back to 1838, drives digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies to help businesses make efficiency and sustainability gains across their organisations.

David Pownall, Vice President of Services at Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, said: “We have had a long and fruitful association with SELECT over the years, including sponsoring organisation awards, and we are proud to be included in an Associate Membership scheme which brings so many benefits to the electrical industry.”

Robus is a Dublin-headquartered global lighting wholesaler with customers in more than 40 countries around the world. Established in 1984, it is now the biggest lighting company in Ireland.

Mick G Slein, Chief Executive of Robus, said: “Becoming an Associate Member of SELECT completely aligns with our best-in-class mindset and our vision of being our customers’ most trusted LED lighting brand. We look forward to building strong and trusted relationships with SELECT members as we continue to grow internationally.”

CompEx is the international scheme for competency validation and certification of people who work in explosive atmospheres. First established 30 years ago with the support of industry, its suite of training and assessment modules are delivered through a network of independent training and assessment centres to support electrotechnical practitioners in sectors including oil and gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage manufacturing and utilities.

Huw Bement, Managing Director of CompEx, said: “Our international safety and competency scheme is rooted in certifying electrotechnical technicians and engineers operating in hazardous areas – so becoming a SELECT Associate Member is hugely important for us. It’s a fantastic opportunity for CompEx to establish new industry connections and to continue building our existing relationships.”

The trio’s arrival follows the announcement of Legrand UK & Ireland as SELECT’s 25th Associate Member earlier this year. The electrical and digital infrastructure specialist is part of Legrand Group, which has a presence in nearly 90 countries and employs more than 38,000 people.

Other SELECT Associate Members include Hispec, V-Tac, Aico, Aurora, Electrium, Hager, Luceco, Megger, Scolmore and Thorn Lighting.

SELECT has just completed its annual Toolbox Talks roadshows and is now involved in the organisation of the second Green Home Festival as a leading member of the Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV).

The organisation also continues to spearhead a long-running and high-profile campaign for regulation of the electrical industry, with the submission to Scottish Parliament of a Members’ Bill calling for Protection of Title.

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QIC Matrix-Mesh ceiling tiles are available in a wide variety of colours, patterns and edge details to bring an ultra-contemporary, stylish new look to interior spaces large or small. The additional advantage with QIC Matrix-Mesh ceiling tiles is their availability. Ready to purchase off-the-shelf, this specialist tile range not only adds a dynamic aesthetic to ceilings, it helps eradicate the potential for issues and delays in respect of the installation process.

Neil Miller, Sales and Marketing Director at QIC Trims, said: “Mesh ceilings have extended architects’ pallet in terms of design. They help transform quite ordinary spaces into something quite extraordinary. As specialist manufacturers of interior building products, we are always looking to develop products that support industry innovation. Hence, the QIC Trims Matrix-Mesh ceiling tile range. Its off-the-shelf availability removes an element of uncertainty from the ordering and delivering process. It means our superb metal mesh tiles are ready to go when you are.”

Manufactured from galvanised steel, powder-coated and painted, Matrix-Mesh metal ceiling tiles are easily installed and allow quick easy access to the ceiling void above. The range includes five standard mesh patterns: Aptus, Finity, Nova, Scape and Vexa, with each system having been designed to create spaces that harmoniously blend form and function.

The Matrix-Mesh ceiling tile range adds to QIC Trims’ ever-expanding product portfolio, which also includes ceiling trims, plasterboard trims, glass partitions and bespoke metalwork. The company’s manufacture of solutions to suit a client’s bespoke requirements make QIC a go-to supplier of premium building products for specialist interior projects.

To find out how the QIC Matrix-Mesh ceiling tile range can transform your aesthetic vision into a reality, click here or call our expert customer service team on: +44(0)1280 818950.

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Ledston Hall, a 700-year-old stately home in Yorkshire, has received planning permission to replace its original metal-framed, leaded windows with double glazed alternatives.[1] The aim of the replacement is to increase energy efficiency with the building’s conversion to housing, following 65 years of being empty and falling into disrepair. Although at first glance this may seem a natural step forward with the increased focus on the need to look after the environment, and the cost-of-living crisis, the importance of the building’s heritage should also be remembered and honoured.

Nicola Harrison, Managing Director for Bereco, commented: “While it’s great to see that this Grade I listed building has been granted permission to install double glazed windows to improve its energy efficiency, it could mean that owners of these buildings opt for alternative window materials rather than staying true to the design of the original windows and traditional style of the building.

“In the UK we have some fantastic historic buildings, and although we understand they’re in need of some repairs to become more sustainable, there are lots of incredible alternative materials that not only match the traditional design of the building but also deliver exceptional thermal performance.”

Bereco offers a wide range of timber windows and doors, all of which meet the Building Regulations Notional Target with U-values of 1.2W/m²K across the board. With their sustainably sourced timber and huge choice of designs, Bereco’s products are ideal for both listed buildings and newbuilds.

To find out more, visit www.bereco.co.uk or call 01709 838 188.

[1] Ledston Hall: 700-year-old Yorkshire stately home becomes first Grade I-listed building in the UK to get permission for double glazed windows | Yorkshire Post

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In an era marked by growing environmental consciousness, industries are actively seeking innovative ways to embrace sustainability. However, one sector that has often been overlooked in this context is security. Nevertheless, a transformative shift is currently underway, reshaping the security industry’s approach to sustainability.

The journey to transform the security industry into a sustainable powerhouse is not without its challenges. For CLD Systems the primary hurdle lies in garnering support from its stakeholders and ensuring that sustainable solutions are viewed as valuable investments rather than burdensome costs. Overcoming this obstacle requires collective efforts to integrate sustainable practices throughout the industry, promoting product reuse and longevity, while dispelling the misconception that sustainability compromises profitability.

Driving the security industry towards sustainability requires designing sustainable products and solutions from project inception and allocating adequate budgets for them. By embedding sustainability as a core consideration, the industry can proactively implement sustainable solutions on a wider scale. Achieving this vision requires collaboration among all stakeholders and a commitment to challenging the status quo.

The increasing priority placed on sustainable solutions by customers across various industries has begun to influence the security sector as well. While larger projects have made notable strides in adopting sustainability, there remains untapped potential for smaller ventures.

CLD Systems, the leading UK manufacturer and supplier of rigid mesh fencing and security gates, showcases its commitment to sustainable solutions with the integration of its On-Ground FenceSafe product during the construction phase of projects. Made with a 100% recycled base and 78% recycled steel, this product serves a dual purpose. It can be used during construction and then converted into a permanent fenceline or easily deployed on the next project, showcasing the versatility of such solutions and promoting positive sustainable outcomes. By utilising recycled materials, CLD Systems not only showcases the versatility of sustainable solutions but also significantly reduces carbon emissions and waste generation, making a positive impact on the environment.

The On-Ground FenceSafe is positioned directly on the ground, eliminating the need for physical tools, streamlining operations whilst minimising resource consumption. This approach effectively minimises environmental impact and lowers carbon emissions.

The shift toward sustainability in the security industry is driven by customers’ heightened awareness of environmental issues and their desire to align their projects with sustainable values. This growing demand underscores the changing landscape of customer expectations, where sustainability is a crucial factor in decision-making processes. More clients are now seeking BREEAM excellence, the world’s leading science-based suite of validation and certification systems for sustainable built environment. This places a significant responsibility on CLD Systems as manufacturers to challenge the status quo and provide innovative, sustainable solutions. To achieve this, CLD Systems collaborates with contractors who operate zero-to-waste schemes, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices.

In response to the ever-evolving nature of the security sector, CLD Systems has emerged with a solution that aligns with sustainable principles: rental options. This approach offers clients greater flexibility while minimising waste.

The RiseMaster HE Barrier, an automatic boom arm barrier system powered entirely by solar energy, exemplifies this commitment. Featuring primary and secondary photovoltaic panels, it eliminates the need for road crossing control cabling during installation, reducing environmental impact and carbon emissions. With 24/7 solar autonomy and zero carbon emissions over a 10-year life cycle, it sets a new standard for sustainable security solutions. The integration of Bluetooth connectivity reduces the reliance on physical tools, streamlining operations and minimising resource consumption.

As the security industry aligns itself with the broader environmental movement, CLD Systems’ commitment to offering rental solutions and solar-powered innovations paves the way for a greener and more secure future. By embracing collaboration, innovation, and sustainable product design, the industry can make a significant impact in addressing environmental challenges while meeting customer demands for a more sustainable and secure world.

To find out more about CLD Systems’ products, please visit: www.cld-systems.com

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The company supplied more than 11,500 lin/m of trim for nearly 350 raft ceilings that were installed at the former Vaux Brewery in Sunderland. The site, which had laid dormant since the brewery’s demolition in 1999, was redeveloped in order to house the new city hall. Sunderland City Council is expected to transfer around 1,200 employees to the seven-storey building in a move that will save the authority an estimated £22million in operational costs over the next 25 years.
The council will be one of several tenants within the 17,755m² building, which includes a large amount of office space, a fitness room and an employment centre. For its repurposing, which was designed by Faulkner Browns Architects, the building’s interior required a contemporary aesthetic. This meant being creative with the design of elements of the building fabric. Hence, the specification of a Troldtekt ‘floating cloud’ circular ceiling system, which makes for a stylish, acoustic-friendly addition to large, open plan workspaces.
To provide each ceiling with a smart, contemporary finish, QIC Trims was selected by the project’s main contractor, Bowmer and Kirkland, to design and manufacture a trim solution. Its ‘US Ceiling Raft’ range was originated for such purpose, with QIC Trim’s technical team able to assist in the ceiling’s design coordination in several communications held with the architect and sub-contractor prior to installation. After many discussions and prototypes the new US04 aluminium extrusion was chosen for its aesthetics and straight forward install method.
The ceiling’s superb design aspect contributed to Sunderland City Hall’s regeneration earning a BCO award. The annual contest recognises projects that set ‘a benchmark for excellence in creativity and functionality.’ The City Hall programme, which won the award for the northern region, earned judges praise for its innovative creation of an uplifting, light-filled, engaged workspace.

QIC Trims was proud to have supplied the innovation and solution to ensure a centrepiece feature of this stunning redevelopment has a superbly designed finishing touch.

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