Construction Update - October 2023

NeoRuler, a smart ruler is about to change how we measure

Snickers Workwear’s New Hybrid Jacket

The new Hybrid multi-purpose work jacket is a street-smart, highly versatile garment. Great on site or for leisurewear, it’s made of flexible, wicking jersey fabric with Repreve® 1 fabric insulation in the shoulder and upper body area.

The Hybrid provides great freedom of movement and elasticated comfort for all types of work and warmth or ventilation when you need it.

W hatever toplayer clothes you need – for work, play or protection against hazards – Snickers Workwear has a range of Jackets that will work on site for both men and women, always delivering optimal performance, comfort and good looks.

Just check out the features of Snickers Workwear Jackets, there will be one to suit you - wherever you are, whatever you need, whatever you’re doing.

Being awarded ‘Best for Innovative Hard Surfaces Restoration and Repair Services 2022’ by Design and Build Awards and with 30 years’ experience in specialist repairs and restoration, Magicman can assist.

Our customers include celebrated hotels, famous cruise lines and busy international transport

hubs. From Park Lane to Pakistan, Bermondsey to Bermuda, we provide repair and restoration services all over the UK and around the world. At Magicman, we know that a good repair is the best thing to do.

If your premises are in need of some TLC, we have the services and equipment to help you out. We

can handle minor chips, scratches, and other superficial issues as well as more major damage such as dents, burns and cracks.

Our skilled technicians can restore your premises in the highest order by addressing any unsightly damaged items in a timely manner and in an affordable manner. There’s no need to worry about how much time it will take us to complete repairs because our team is always on time—and ready to go!

We do not limit our services to small repairs; we are able to restore main entrances and windows while also working on door frames, cills and even entire buildings or shops fronts. Inside or outside, we can fix any colour, grain, or pattern you may want! We use only certified technicians who are trained and experienced with every job they undertake.

Our goal is always customer satisfaction!

We remove the panic when sudden and unexpected damage occurs which has the potential to push clients into penalty clauses. As completion deadline approaches, it is imperative that snagging issues are remedied promptly and to a standard that assists

The appearance of your hotel is of paramount importance when inspiring confidence and delight amongst clientele.

you to handover to client ‘defect free’. Magicman has both the skill sets and the ability to provide the numbers to ensure this happens.

Most items are produced in batches and replacements, in addition to being subject to long lead times, may not be the same colour or sheen of the original. A Magicman repair is the easy, cost-effective solution.

When you’re a hotelier, you can’t afford to have a room that’s not up to snuff.

That’s why Magicman is the perfect solution for when your rooms need a little work.

We’ve been providing repair services for hotels for over 30 years, and we know how important it is to keep your rooms looking and feeling brand new. We also know that sometimes things happen maybe there’s an incident that causes damage, or maybe it’s just time for an upgrade. Whatever the case may be, we’re here to help you find solutions—and fast!

Our team can handle most problems with efficiency and ease, whether they involve cabinets or furniture. We’ll even handle any of your snagging issues before you hand over possession of the room to your client, so they don’t have to worry about paying extra fees due to incomplete repairs.

We’ve got all kinds of options when it comes to repairing damaged items in your hotel rooms.

What

does this mean for you?

Our business model of repairing items on site instead of ordering and installing replacements, saves you time and money and

is better for the environment. Typically repairing on site saves between 50– 80% of the cost of installing a replacement. Repairing on site reduces waste to landfill and greenhouse gases created in production and delivery of replacement items.  It avoids long delivery times; any possibility of ancillary damage and items can often be back in use within hours. Magicman provide teams of technicians who repair, restore, and rejuvenate (in-situ) doors, floors, furniture, sanitaryware, baths, basins, shower trays, whirlpools, ceramic tiles, handrails, panels, artworks, sculptures, reception desks, walls, common areas including bars, restaurants, gyms, and spas.

All without removal or replacement!

We are fully accredited, certified, and audited so we can deliver the standards you expect nationwide:

ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management

ISO 14001: 2015 Environmental Management

ISO 45001: 2018 Occupational Health & Safety

We’re all about making your life easier.

That’s why we created Magicman: to help you save time, money, and resources. Our team of experts can repair hard surfaces to a wide range of different items and types of substrates, including:

• Wood and laminate

• Glass polishing

• Metal polishing

• Stone and marble repair & polishing

• Ceramic tiling

• Plastics / uPVC

• Corian

• Powder coated surfaces

• Painted surfaces (including wallpaper)

• Sanitaryware (baths, basins, and showers)

Big savings

The premise of Magicman is a simple one. Instead of replacing damaged items and surfaces we copy the colours, patterns, texture, and sheen to repair the original, typically saving between 50% - 80% compared with the cost of replacement. Better for you and better for the environment.

Because Magicman work on site (we come to you) and our repairs are so quick, without the lead time involved in ordering replacement items, the turnaround time is reduced, and costs are dramatically lowered. Also, your items are brought back into use much more quickly.

If you would like to know more, please contact enquiries@magicman.co.uk or visit our website www.magicman.co.uk.

Apprenticeship expands to address skills gaps across the globe.

A unique apprenticeship established in North East England to give young people a solid foundation for a career in the built environment has proven so successful it has expanded nationally and internationally.

The industry-driven PlanBEE programme developed by Ryder and Gateshead College to plug a skills and talent gap in the built environment sector is expanding to Vancouver, Canada and London.

The award winning higher apprenticeship was developed in 2016 to encourage young people to join and thrive in the industry. They learn multiple disciplines, working in a variety of roles including architecture, engineering, quantity surveying and construction - all with a strong emphasis on digital skills.

Alongside academic study, the apprentices are employed to learn on the job and rotate across employers including Bowmer + Kirkland, Sir Robert McAlpine, Cundall, - Mott MacDonald and Ryder.

Following its initial success in the North East, Manchester City Council joined forces with Ryder Architecture and Gateshead College in 2021 to launch PlanBEE in the city. Since then, the number of apprentices and businesses involved in the programme have increased by 122 percent and the first PlanBEE Manchester apprentices have recently graduated. All of them secured full-time roles with companies including Buro Happold, Eric Wright Construction, Purcell Architects,  and Ramboll.

Ayman Abdulgabar, who recently started his role as a trainee quantity surveyor with Turner & Townsend after successfully completing PlanBEE in Manchester, said: “What attracted me to PlanBEE was the fact that it provides extensive exposure to the various skills involved in the construction industry.

“All I knew was that I wanted to work in the industry. I would definitely recommend the course. Instead of attending university for a degree in an area that I might not have enjoyed, PlanBEE gave me an insight into the various disciplines so I could understand better what I wanted to do in the future.”

Building on the success of the programme, PlanBEE has now expanded to London, in partnership with the London School of Architecture (LSA) and supported by several London boroughs, with the first apprentices starting this September (2023).

Neal Shasore, Head of School and Chief Executive at the LSA, said: “There is a pressing need in the built environment to develop the best talent and equip them with the tools to address our current and future challenges. PlanBEE is a proven and innovative apprenticeship providing an excellent opportunity to support this need.”

In Vancouver, British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) was introduced to PlanBEE by Ryder which

has led to the creation of an adapted version of the programme with the new industry led apprenticeship and micro-credential for schools launching in July 2023.

Wayne Hand, Dean of the School of Construction and Environment at BCIT said: “BCIT is excited to be spearheading this unique initiative that offers motivated high school students a deeper understanding of career opportunities in architecture, construction, and engineering enabling them to make informed decisions about their future careers.”

Mark Thompson, managing director at Ryder, said: “It’s wonderful that our PlanBEE programme, created in North East England, has received not only national but international attention. This highlights just how successful it’s been in shaping the future workforce for the built environment. It’s a very transferable course and we’re confident it will prove just as successful in London and Vancouver.”

Since 2016, there have been over 500 industry placements and 74 students have graduated, with 97% progressing to permanent jobs within the sector.

Chris Toon, deputy principal at Gateshead College, said: “PlanBEE has been phenomenally successful, attracting attention from UK industry and overseas. The global recognition is great news for the sector and the development of the future workforce.

“The apprenticeship has directly improved talent development in the industry and brought great benefits to employers across the North East and Manchester. We’re confident London and Vancouver will experience the same impact.

“We’re also pleased that PlanBEE has created opportunity for those from underprivileged and underrepresented backgrounds increasing diversity and inclusivity in the sector.

“Apprenticeships like PlanBEE are vital to future proofing key industries and equipping workforces with the work ready skills they need to succeed.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about being involved in PlanBEE, visit www.gatesheadcollege.ac.uk/planbee

With a strong farming past to the area, the site’s rural context was a key factor in material selection. The cladding supplied by International Timber ties the new house into its agricultural setting and the existing barns and outbuildings on site.

The local Jewson branch worked in close collaboration with Adam Knibb Architects and the builder to design and specify 125mm and 150mm of Accoya, cutting it into three different widths. This was then used for the external cladding of the building to create the biophilic aesthetic and continuous inside-outside connection that the architect wanted to achieve.

A counter batten was placed behind the Accoya cladding to maintain ventilation and drainage of any water and condensation. Insect mesh was also fitted to prevent insects and other pests entering into the cavity or gaps around the cladding or ventilation gaps. In addition, International Timber supplied Accoya for use on the ceiling inside the property as well as to create two doors and door frames.

Jon East, Timber Development Manager at the Jewson Whiteparish branch, said: “Jewson was successful in securing the contract to supply the Accoya cladding for

International Timber provides sustainable Accoya® cladding for contemporary farmhouse

Sustainable Accoya cladding from International Timber has been used for the construction of a self-build farmhouse in Salisbury, designed by awardwinning architect practice Adam Knibb Architects.

Waldens Farm is a striking fourbed property located in beautiful West Grimstead with views of the surrounding picturesque landscape. Accoya timber cladding from International Timber features on the exterior of the house alongside traditional stone and contemporary glass, resulting in a truly stunning build.

Waldens Farm due to our close working relationship with both the client/builder and the team at International Timber Parkend. The team there were, as always, really helpful and easy to work with.”

Bernie Roberts, National Product Manager for Cladding Solutions at International Timber, added: “We are thrilled to be chosen as a supplier for this incredible build. Timber cladding is often specified for self-build projects due to its aesthetic qualities, biophilic design, natural durability and ease of working, and this project was no different.

“Accoya is a great sustainable wood, which is a huge factor as to why it was chosen here. It also has many other great benefits, including the fact it is incredibly durable, has a 50-year above-ground warranty, and is trusted not to visibly swell, shrink or distort, with minimal movement. The fact it also provides a fantastic finish is another great reason to always opt for Accoya in projects such as these.”

For more information on International Timber and its Accoya range, visit www.internationaltimber.com. To learn more about Adam Knibb Architects, visit www.adamknibbarchitects.com.

New research outlines the huge opportunity for developers to improve ‘lacking’ public EV charging facilities

The lack of availability and accessibility of current EV charge points, coupled with damaged infrastructure, incompatibility and inadequate payment options is causing frustration amongst UK EV drivers. As a result, over two-thirds (67 percent) of respondents are prepared to pay a premium to reserve a public charging bay to ensure they can power up their vehicles. Just over a quarter (27 percent) are willing to part with up to £10, and 33 percent up to £5. A further 7 percent would even be prepared to go higher at over £10, all to avoid ‘charge anxiety’.

The study of over 1,000 UK EV drivers by SMS explores the current customer experience of using, and relying on, public EV charge points. Despite an almost ubiquitous love of their EV (94 percent), 67 percent of UK EV drivers wish they’d known more about public EV charging availability before they’d transitioned to electric.

It uncovers that although we’re seeing an exponential growth in the home EV charging market, a mere 5 percent of respondents rely solely on this option to power their vehicle. In reality, a fifth (20 percent) of EV drivers surveyed remain completely reliant on public EV charging due to having no charge points available to them at home or at work. A further 33 percent use public EV charge points a lot, with 31 percent only sometimes, and only 15 percent stated ‘rarely’.

Surprisingly, 70 percent of EV drivers still have limited public charging options in their area. This leads to a staggering 81 percent of EV drivers having to wait for a public charge point, with a third spending 30 mins to an hour (30 percent), and 27 percent between one to two hours before they could access a much needed recharge.

It doesn’t end there, of those surveyed:

• Over three-quarters (77 percent) have been unable or unwilling to access a public EV charge point. 36 percent stated that this was because they are out of order / broken, and for 27 percent it was simply that they weren’t available.

• An additional 18 percent of EV drivers found the EV charge points were not compatible with their vehicle, and for 15 percent they didn’t have their preferred payment option.

• Worryingly, 17 percent of respondents have avoided using public EV charge points because the location didn’t feel safe.

• 68 percent of EV drivers admitted it is stressful to always have to think about public charging availability when they take a long journey.

Mark Winn, Head of EV Strategy at SMS explained: “Home EV charging may be on the rise, but it’s critical that the UK’s growing number of EV drivers have adequate access to fully functioning public EV charge points while they are on the move. However, in the race to meet EV charging expectations, targets and market share, companies have

deployed – and continue to install – the wrong type of chargers, in the wrong location. Added to this, the payment options are either substandard or created to monopolise the market, and infrastructure maintenance seems to be firmly off the ‘to-do’ list. This is creating a ‘perfect storm’ of customer dissatisfaction, frustration and charge anxiety for EV drivers, and the future of electric motoring in the UK is coming under unfair scrutiny as a result. We simply must do more.”

Interestingly, the SMS study points out that public EV charge point infrastructure doesn’t just benefit drivers, it can be a huge boost to businesses and the local economy. Within the last year, of those polled:

• 41 percent used EV charge points in a public car park. Almost half (49 percent) had used a public EV charge point at a supermarket and 28 percent at an out of town shopping centre or retail park.

• 29 percent accessed public EV charge points when staying overnight at a hotel for business and the same number (29 percent) when staying overnight at a hotel for leisure.

• Two-fifths (40 percent) had charged up at a motorway service station. Interestingly, nearly three-quarters (71 percent) stated that past experiences and availability of EV charging influences their choice of motorway service station.

Mark Winn added: “While we need to exponentially increase the quantity of EV charge points in multiple locations this cannot be at the expense of their quality. Not all EV charge points are created equal and the type required varies depending on where it’s being installed and who is using it. EV infrastructure always needs to be planned with three Rs in mind: right time, right location and right speed. EV may be a nascent market, but this doesn’t mean that there is any excuse for providing the public with substandard EV charging solutions. If we want to avoid a public backlash against EV adoption, then greater due diligence must be applied to EV charge point installation deals.”

In response, SMS has published ‘Powering up public EV charging: it’s time to plug in the gaps’. The downloadable report looks at the current state of public EV charging in the UK. It’s designed to ensure that those responsible for public EV charging are armed with the information they need to drive the roll out of public charging forward. From residential and commercial developers and land owners, to local authorities, city and county councils. After all, the UK government has made a promise that 300,000 EV charge points will be available up and down the UK by 2030. In the same year, it plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles - however, 88 percent say public EV charging needs to improve if UK drivers are to be encouraged to transition to electric.

A free copy of the report, and blueprint, can be downloaded at sms-plc.com.

The report from SMS looks at the current experience of public EV charging and how UK landlords and developers can contribute to making it ‘fit for the future.’

ESTILO INTERIORS STRENGTHENS TEAM WITH FIVE NEW HIRES

Leading commercial fit-out and refurbishment company, Estilo Interiors, is further fuelling its growth with the appointment of five new hires across the business. Headquartered in Birmingham, the organisation – which announced its most successful financial year to date back in March – continues to build its footprint across the region and further afield.

These new hires bring a wealth of experience and expertise, further enhancing Estilo Interiors’ capabilities in both its creative and delivery teams. In the midst of a stellar year, marked by a flurry of new instructions, the quintet sees the business grow by 20%.

Joining the head office team as an Electrical Contracts Manager, Richard Stokes boasts over 20 years’ experience in M&E fit-out, previously working as on-site lead for Estilo Interiors. Also joining the team includes, Stephen Jones, who brings 18 years’ experience within the electrical wholesale industry, as Procurement Manager & Electrical Estimator. Along with his procurement management, Stephen will streamline Estilo Interiors’ supply chain to improve the profitability of the division and provide detailed cost estimations to clients.

Welcoming Estilo Interior’s first-ever Quantity Surveyor (QS), Paul Norris, joins the growing team with over 12 years’ experience as a QS and over 18 years in the construction industry. Working on a range of projects during his time in the industry, notable projects Paul has overseen includes fit-out projects

of Jaguar Land Rover facility at Euro Park Rugby to multi-million-pound schemes in the Midlands in the Drylining sector.

Supporting Paul to achieve a MRICS certification and become a qualified Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Paul commented:

“I am thrilled to be re-entering the fit-out sector and honoured to join the esteemed team at Estilo Interiors. As their first Quantityy Surveyor, my foremost responsibility will involve collaborating closely with the proficient Estimating and Contracts teams. Together, we will ensure that each project we undertake is not only a resounding commercial success but also brings immense satisfaction to our valued clients.

“My journey with Estilo Interiors will be marked by a personal commitment to excellence. I have set my sights on achieving MCIOB accreditation through my Professional Review, a significant milestone that I am determined to accomplish by the end of 2023. Beyond that, I envision pursuing MRICS accreditation, solidifying my position as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor, a testament to my unwavering pursuit of excellence in this field.”

In addition to the delivery team, Estilo Interiors has also welcomed two recruits to its brand-new marketing function: Jack Soars and Ted Hawkswood, who have been appointed Marketing Manager and Digital Content Manager, respectively.

Jack leverages his expertise as the former Group Marketing Manager at property consultants Centrick and Regional Marketing Manager for Lomond Group, to expand and develop Estilo Interiors’ marketing strategies and elevate the company’s reputation as a respected and award-winning design and fit-out business. Ted brings his experience as a digital content creator for Centrick to enhance the organisation’s social presence through videography and photography, attracting new clients by showcasing completed projects.

Commenting on the recent appointments, Andrew Moore, Founder and CEO of Estilo Interiors, said:

“It’s been an incredible period of growth for the business, and I’m delighted to be going into the latter part of the year with five fantastic new hires. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly further strengthen our position as a leading turnkey interior fit-out contractor.

We continue to excel in delivering innovative workplace solutions for commercial tenants, landlords, and developers across the UK. The team remains paramount to this: their commitment to exceptional design, high-quality craftsmanship, and client satisfaction remains unwavering as they strive to expand our reach and achieve new heights in the industry.”

Estilo Interiors is celebrating a period of unprecedented growth, having announced record revenue of nearly £30 million earlier this year, improving on the previous year’s turnover despite challenging business conditions. This also came as the business celebrated its 20th anniversary. Recent projects include the Cat A fit-out of Lombard House in Birmingham City Centre, the Cat B fit-out of MAPP’s London Headquarters and the refurbishment of Savills offices in Reading.

www.estilointeriors.co.uk

Fusing headline performance with massive running cost savings

A new ventilation with heat recovery option can achieve performance better than anything else on the market, meaning massive savings on energy bills.

MFS-HR is the concept of the UK’s leading independent commercial air movement specialist, Gilberts Blackpool, who was instrumental in pioneering hybrid ventilation with its core MFS unit. The latest evolution achieves up to 75% heat recovery- significantly better than other similar type systems.

That outstanding performance means that for a typical school, energy bills could be cut dramatically by recovering heat that would otherwise be wasted, whilst ensuring a indoor air quality compliant, well-ventilated space.

Gilberts’ dynamic MFS-HR will become, the company believes, the ‘go-to’ solution for net zero building services design, especially in educational establishments.

The ventilation performance is compliant with BB101 and the DFE Output Specification. Further, it avoids overheating in the building, being TM52 comfort compliant. And it is quiet- meeting BB93 guidelines even for special educational needs.

How it works

A stand-alone unit installed at high level through the building façade, MFS-HR utilises natural air movement to provide airflow to cool in warmer months; a low energy fan boosts supply and exhaust when needed to maintain the temperature and indoor air quality (IAQ). In colder conditions, the exchanger extracts heat from the exhaust air.

The heat is transferred to the cooler incoming air via the exchanger. Separate chambers for supply and return air avoids

the risk of cross contamination and ensures the incoming air is COVID safe. An external louvre simultaneously draws fresh air in and exhausts the used air: options include exposed (mounted in the room) or concealed (ducted above the ceiling); louvres either fitted into the brickwork, window frame or glazed into the window.

With its heat recovery capability, MFS-HR will provide up to 4kw heating and 2kw cooling capacity whilst still delivering high, compliant airflow rates of up to 378l/s. An optional additional LPHW coil can provide heating, potentially negating the capital expenditure, plant and running costs associated with a separate central heating system.

The MFS range attains air leakage better than legislative requirements – 3m3/HR/m2, and a U value of less than 1W/m2/°C.

Being a stand-alone system, MFS-HR is ideal for new build or refurbishment/refit scenarios.

The combined benefits of Gilberts’ MFS-HR performance contribute towards low/zero carbon strategies, BREEAM and similar eco credentials.

“When we launched the original MFS, there was nothing else like it in terms of performance,” says Gilberts’ Sales Director Ian Rogers.

“MFS-HR will build on that, taking hybrid ventilation with heat recovery to new heights in the drive towards energy and carbon reduction, re-affirming Gilberts’ position as a technological leader.

“MFS-HR will play a pivotal role in helping reduce the energy we waste and make best use of our available resources. It stacks up, from sustainability and commercial aspects.”

Full details of MFS-HR, including technical and performance data, can be found here:

https://gilbertsblackpool.com/ natural-ventilation-solutions/ hybrid-recovery/

Founded over 60 years ago, Gilberts Blackpool is the UK’s leading independent air movement specialist, and is unique in its ability to develop both ‘mainstream’ and bespoke ventilation supply and extraction solutions entirely inhouse, from initial design through tooling, production, testing and supply, from its 140,000 ft2 of manufacturing facilities.

Incorporating a state of the art test centre, designed and built in-house, which is one of the most technically advanced in the country.

www.gilbertsblackpool.com

The new Schöck Stacon challenges traditional thinking on dowels

The new heavy-duty Stacon shear force dowel type SLD from Schöck is really compact; and as the anchoring bodies have been reduced in size, it has the advantage of enabling higher loads to be installed in thinner slabs and walls, optimising onsite reinforcement. Which can mean fewer dowels being required for the same load. A higher load capacity can even be achieved with a slab thickness of 500mm. Years of research have been invested in the development of the new Schöck Stacon and it is the only UK dowel product to have undergone such extensive testing. This involved up to 2000 longitudinal and transverse displacement cycles per test, along with an exhaustive examination of its loadbearing capacity and its fire behaviour. Resulting in the new Schöck Stacon being awarded United Kingdom Technical Assessment (UKTA) along with fire protection classification R 120. By using high-quality stainless steel, the Schöck Stacon dowels guarantee a safe and maintenance-free connection. There are two main variants, the Schöck Stacon SLD for the transmission of high transverse forces in expansion joints between thin concrete structural components, offering freedom of movement in the direction of the dowel axis. Also, the SLD-Q, which has a unique square bar and is for the transmission of high shear forces between thin concrete structural components with freedom of movement both along and transverse to the dowel axis.

The type LD

There is a single shear dowel as well, the Schöck Stacon dowel type LD, which offers a simple solution for force transmission in expansion joints. It connects the components adjacent to the joint without any additional construction and in doing so, the shear forces are transferred and any required movement made possible. Complex double walls or corbels for load transfer can be omitted by using the LD. It is the first single shear dowel to be awarded United Kingdom Technical Assessment (UKTA)

Web-based design too

The Schöck Stacon dowel type SLD is innovative, but so is Scalix, the supporting design software. Scalix is the first web-based application for the design of shear dowels and it is always up-to-date with no installation required. The Schöck products, both SLD and LD, can easily be calculated using a single, modular solution. Scalix enables simple planning, design and verification of all shear force dowels in one tool; selection of the most economical dowel variant; and optimisation of on-site reinforcement. The modular software runs on all common browsers, calculations can be saved and loaded locally as a file. In addition, the latest software allows projects to be loaded that are in earlier release versions.

NeoRuler, a smart ruler is about to change how we measure

NeoRuler is a smart ruler that can be customized for every need of desktop measurements.

HOZO Design announced the prelaunch of its new product called NeoRuler. The product will be officially launched on Kickstarter on Feb 28th, 2023. It is a smart ruler that satisfies all of the desktop measuring needs with infinite customizable scales, units, and 0.1mm resolution. It will potentially replace all rulers, scale rulers, and many other desktop measuring tools. Specifically designed to simplify takeoffs from design, architectural and engineering drawings. It works on both the Imperial and Metric systems and can be connected with a dedicated app to transfer and save measured data.

NeoRuler has three primary features that enhance its ability to aid in drafting, measuring, and reading. The Scale Ruler function includes 90 built-in scales, allowing immediate measurements during drafting with a single swipe. The Customized Scale function of NeoRuler enables users to define any scale within a few seconds, even from plans that have been reduced, enlarged, or are just out of scale. And the Divider function helps to divide a line into equal lengths easily.

NeoRuler enables users to convert units and scales without calculations, saving time and energy and reducing the chances of error, freeing modern-day professionals from loaded work. With three distinct modules for different purposes, including NeoMagnifier, Penholders and Caliper Modules, NeoRuler offers an impressive range of features. Each module is equipped with reading, drafting, and bordermeasuring capabilities.

NeoRuler can be easily connected with the MEAZOR APP. Simply pressing the ( ) button in the app, the user can transfer the measured data and continue further editing and drawing without worrying about losing track of their data. From paper to CAD, data digitalization is made easy by NeoRuler. The users can. export every single line into CAD files DXF, PDF, and JPG and easily share that with colleagues.

By employing the 4096-Grade magnetic encoder principle, NeoRuler is capable of quickly acquiring measuring results with a precision of +-0.1mm. Additionally, its durable frame, constructed from 6063 al, is designed

to withstand wear and tear, ensuring a lifetime of high quality and durability. With a length of 30cm, NeoRuler is suitable for most measuring tasks, and its weight of 120g and ideal thickness makes it comfortable to hold. The custommade 1.14 LCD screen on NeoRuler makes reading measurements effortless, while the front side features a stylish anti-glare finish for added protection. NeoRuler’s 900mAh battery can last up to 30 days of wireless use on a single charge and can be conveniently charged using USB C.

The product page of NeoRuler provides all the necessary information that a user may need to know about the product. The NeoRuler is now available to backers only on Kickstarter with a special offer starting from $89, MRSP $129.

To learn more, visit: hozodesign.com/products/ neoruler

Support NeoRuler on Kickstarter by clicking here.

Optimal comfort from Gilberts

An intelligent decision in utilising an intelligent spring could help improve occupant health and performance alongside savings in energy and manufacturing time.

The “super spring” is a core component of Gilberts’ latest GSJ adjustable thermal swirl diffusers.

Utilising an advanced thermally reactive spring as a core component of Gilberts’ latest GSJ adjustable thermal swirl, the diffuser now has a reaction time - and therefore temperature adjustment- occurring within seconds, verses other thermally actuated diffusers, which use wax technology, which can take up to 60 minutes.

Triggered by the temperature of the incoming air (usually when it varies by 2°C from pre-set boundaries) the intelligent spring instantly adjusts the omni-rotational diffuser vanes, delivering warm air vertically and cooler air horizontally. This process ensures rapid initial warm up, and avoidance of uncomfortable draughts.

Quickly controlling the airflow direction to maintain a comfortable environment in the internal space below, it only takes seconds to restore the equilibrium- whether through exposed ductwork, ceiling grids, clip-in ceilings or perforated ceilings.

Occupant comfort is consistently maintained, which the Health & Safety Executive states is important to improving people’s health, morale and productivity(1)

The diffuser requires no external power or control, reducing material and installation costs. It operates without human intervention, enabling occupants to focus on their activities.

The maintenance free Diffuser’s excellent rapid operation, combined with its maintenance of the internal temperature and avoiding significant changes to cool or warm, optimises the fuel efficiency, embodied energy and sustainability of the swirl. It thereby makes a positive contribution towards the building’s overall carbon footprint, be it new build, refurbishment or fitout.

“It’s all about making life easier and better for everyone involved. Improving occupant comfort without adding cost. The new mode of operation works so fast occupants should not even be aware of a fluctuation in the temperature of the incoming air,” says Ian Rogers, Gilberts Sales Director. “Assisting the building with its energy performance and having a lower carbon footprint is win win!”

The new intelligent, quick reacting thermal diffuser compliments the range of options already available for the top-selling GSJ. These include the sometimes requested, pneumatic and electric motor operation.

Gilberts’ swirl diffusers have been used in, among other projects, Uber’s European Centre of Excellence, Primark stores, Liverpool Exhibition Centre, Texaco filling stations and the new Glasgow Rangers Museum. They are just part of the company’s extensive range of grilles, diffusers and louvres for natural and mechanical ventilation.

Founded over 60 years ago, Gilberts Blackpool is the UK’s leading independent air movement specialist, and is unique in its ability to develop both ‘mainstream’ and bespoke ventilation supply and extraction solutions entirely in-house, from initial design through tooling, production, testing and supply, from its 140,000 ft2 of manufacturing facilities. Incorporating a state of the art test centre, designed and built in-house, which is one of the most technically advanced in the country.

For more information please visit:

www.gilbertsblackpool.com or call 01253 766911

Inco Contracts gives St Giles Hospice its own DIY SOS makeover

More than 50 kind-hearted construction specialists and suppliers swapped their day jobs for a very ‘personal’ DIY SOS last week.

Penkridge-based Inco Contracts, a leading industrial and commercial refurbishment specialist, spent over £40,000 in materials and 320 volunteer hours giving St Giles Hospice’s base in Lichfield a makeover.

Carpenters, electricians, office staff and subcontractors joined forces over two-days to complete five different projects, ranging from the refurbishment of a roof terrace area and 13 patient patio space to sprucing up the children’s area and bringing a fountain back to life.

The challenge is being completed in memory of Paul Finch, who worked as a Site Manager for the business since 2010, before falling ill with cancer and being cared for by the wonderful people at St Giles.

‘Fina’, as he was affectionately known to staff, was a true professional in his craft and delivered exceptional refurbishment projects during his time with Inco thanks to an eye for detail and his ‘what can I do to help’ attitude.

Away from work, Paul was married to Karon, a passionate supporter of Wolverhampton Wanderers and enjoyed watching his two boys Joe and Tom play

non-league football.

“We are very passionate about the area we work in and wanted to give something back, starting the Inco Foundation in 2020,” explained David Cotterill, Director at Inco.

“This year unfortunately we lost a much-loved colleague Paul Finch and we wanted to make 2023 all about supporting the amazing St Giles Hospice in Lichfield who looked after him and his family so well.”

He continued: “Collectively, we came up with the idea of doing our own DIY SOS Challenge and this quickly grew from a chance conversation to a wish list of five refurbishment projects that could be completed over two days.

“We are delighted to say that the response from staff, suppliers and customers has been amazing with an ‘A-Team’ of 50 people coming together to complete all the different tasks on time.”

Inco Contracts took on five projects in total, with the main one being the complete refurbishment of a roof terrace area and new furniture.

This was quickly followed by the cleaning of 13 patient patio areas and installation of new furniture, remedial works to various site buildings, tarmac repairs, exterior gardening and cleaning.

The children’s area was also given a makeover to ensure that play equipment was safe and in good condition.

Hannah Fahy, Head of Fundraising at St Giles Hospice, added her support: “As a charity, we have to think carefully where we spend our money, so to have Inco come in and complete all of this work for free is wonderful.

“Over £40,000 of materials have been donated and hundreds of hours of craft skills channelled into this DIY SOS, and it will make such a huge difference to the experience of patients, and their loved ones.

“For example, the garden patio transformation will now give them a relaxing space to spend quality time together.”

It costs around £10million to deliver the care St Giles Hospice does to individuals suffering from incurable illnesses.

The charity supported over 2000 patients last year, with a £676 donation paying for 24-hours of hospice care, £202 paying for a community nurse to visit a patient in their own home and £40 for a 1-hour session with the advice and referrals team.

Sam Norton, Director at Inco Contracts, concluded: “We’re all so pleased that we have been able to use our skills to improve the environment and buildings at St Giles Hospice.

“The quality of the work, despite the efforts of a few office novices, was exceptional and I’m sure Paul would have been impressed with what we have achieved.”

Founded in 2010, Inco Contracts has evolved from undertaking small refurbishments and dilapidations to completing a range of £multi-million projects.

The growth of the business has seen it expand rapidly with offices in the North and South of England joining its headquarters in Penkridge.

For further information, please visit www.incocontracts.co.uk or www.stgileshospice.com

UK Construction Week Birmingham puts industry mental health and culture change centre stage.

With just over a week to go before the doors open on UK Construction Week Birmingham, many leading industry names are preparing to come together to challenge, discuss and address two core issues affecting the sector - mental health and culture change within the built environment.

Returning to the NEC from October 3rd-5th, the three-day construction show will welcome over 25,000 visitors, with key focuses on sustainability, culture change, building safety, digital construction, robotics and mental health, and feature over 6,000 products and services.

In the Sustainability Hub, Anita Malster, Owner of Blossom Training and Kate Walker, CEO of Diabetes Safety Organisation will host Good or Ill: Mental & Physical Health in the industry. The built environment sector has the highest suicide rate of any industry; plus Kier Highlways’ new approach to diabetes safety on site.

Within the Offsite Alliance Hub, Danny Clare, Commercial Director - National Federation of Builders hosts a seminar on The Silent Pandemic. Construction shapes our world, yet it grapples with mental health challenges more profoundly than many other industries. In a field predominantly represented by men, an underlying culture has developed that stigmatises discussions about mental health and undermines its significance.

Anita Malster will host another seminar on the second day of UKCW within the CPD Hub - Are we talking about mental health or are we talking about life?

The construction sector is undertaking a shift. While physical health and workplace safety takes priority, it’s essential to provide the same level of care and support for construction workers’ mental health.

The Culture Change Hub - in partnership with NFB and supported by Building People, will focus on improving employee wellbeing, better inclusivity within the built environment and tackling work-life balance and diversity.

Keynote on Inclusive Behaviours is a unique opportunity to hear form Marsha Ramroop, the former Director of Inclusion at the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Executive Director for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Building People, who will give a keynote on cultural intelligence and inclusive behaviours within the construction and built environment sector.

There will also be a recruitment panel comprising Marsha Ramroop, Sarah Chilcott - Managing Director of Planning Portal, Clare Addy - Head of Partnerships - Causeway Education and Mary Suphi - Deputy Director of Bounce Back. The panel will discuss the meaning of what it is to develop inclusive behaviours that can change the recruitment processes and frameworks that can be adopted to ensure fair and equitable recruitment.

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, commented: “This year’s fantastic lineup of speakers really sets the stage for what the show has in store for in 2023. As the UK’s largest event bringing all parts of the industry together, is the place to learn from those shaping this rapidly-changing industry. We’ll tackle key issues head on and with the strong and innovative seminar and speakers programme this year, and we are proud of the diverse subjects on the agenda.”

To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, go to UKCW Birmingham Registrations

Follow us on social media @uk_cw #UKCW2023

SPEEDY HIRE SHORTLISTED FOR TWO NET-ZERO AWARDS

Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading provider of power tool, equipment and plant hire services, has been shortlisted in two categories for edie’s inaugural Net-Zero Awards which recognise and reward the individuals and organisations spearheading the transition towards a net-zero carbon economy.

Shortlisted in the ‘Built Environment Project of the year category,’ Speedy Hire’s Innovation Centre in Milton Keynes has been recognised for substantial emission reductions. During FY2023 the Innovation Centre became Carbon Negative and achieved a rare A+ EPC rating. The small amount of energy the centre was using is now being supplied by photo-voltaic cells, with the remaining energy being exported back to the electricity grid. The 40,000 sqft facility is powered by a 286kW Solar PV System, emphasising energy efficiency and eco-friendly design, including biodiversity features.

Also shortlisted for the ‘Mobility Project of the year’ category, Speedy Hire has been acknowledged for its shift towards more sustainable transport and logistics. With already the largest electric commercial fleet in the industry, Speedy Hire is continuing this transformation by adding more zero or low emission vehicles to its fleet. It is also trialling new initiatives such as moving freight through London along the Thames by electric boat to reduce congestion and emissions in the capital.

Amelia Woodley, ESG Director, Speedy Hire said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for the inaugural edie Net-Zero awards. As the first company in the hire sector to publicly sign up to science-based net-zero targets we have ambitious goals to reach net-zero by 2040. Being recognised for our hard-work up to this point is a privilege.

“Our ESG strategy, ‘Decade to Deliver’ has captured our goals to drive a ‘hire revolution’ through promoting the circular mode of hire to the masses, whist making hire even more sustainable through collaboration with partners and investing in innovation to decarbonise the industries we support.”

An awards ceremony will take place in London on Wednesday 15th of November, bringing together business leaders, sustainability and net-zero executives, politicians, NGOs, and experts across all aspects of sustainability and decarbonisation.

For more information about Speedy Hire, its ‘Decade to Deliver’ ESG strategy and Net Zero Roadmap, visit: www.speedyservices.com/sustainability

Titon FireSafe® 100mm Push Through Wall Kit

Titon has extended its market leading Titon FireSafe® range by adding the new Titon FireSafe® 100mm Push Through Wall Kit, a superior circular fire safe terminal that assists in removing the dangers offered by plastic grilles and ducting in mechanical ventilation systems.

The Titon FireSafe® 100mm Push Through Wall Kit offers low resistance to airflow, but high resistance to fire as set out in Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition. Ideal for residential new build, refurbishment and social housing applications where mould and condensation cause a major problem.

Key Features

Ð Easy to install and can be cut to desired length on site

Ð Performance tested to BS EN13141-2:2010

Ð Designed for installation with Titon Ultimate® dMEV

Ð Material 0.6mm electrogalvanized sheet steel, fire class A1 ‘no contribution to fire’

Ð Terminal polyester powder coating meeting EN13501-1 classification A2-s1,d0

Ð Corrosion resistance - salt spray tested to BS EN ISO 9227:2012

Non-Combustible as set out in Part B

Low Resistances

ecodan.me.uk/rduf3

As a market leader in low carbon heating systems, we help housing developers comply with the changes to Part L of the Building Regulations by specifying Ecodan Air Source Heat Pumps for new build homes.

Our dedicated website pages provide you with support at every one of the seven steps of the RIBA Plan of Work.

ecodan.me.uk/rdum