Scolmore Group releases new ‘Specification Solutions’ brochure

Scolmore Group has released an updated version of its ‘Specification Solutions’ brochure. The new brochure brings together the ever-increasing range of products from across the businesses operating within the Scolmore group – Click, ESP, Ovia, Unicrimp and Sangamo. Designed as a valuable resource for specification teams working on a range of building projects, the brochure highlights the benefits that using the group's products can bring to a project, helping to quickly identify the right products and solutions for any given application, whether based on cost efficiency, speed of installation, energy savings, sustainability credentials, legislative compliance or health and safety. The brochure is divided into sections that cover the full spectrum of building environments – residential, healthcare, hotel and leisure, education, commercial, industrial and data centres. Each section highlights the products and ranges that are most suitable for the particular sector in question, with details of the specific features and benefits of those products that make them the best choice for the job. However, the group has a team of in-house designers available to assist in finalising bespoke specification requirements. The brochure offers an all-inclusive approach to the build process, bringing in all the relevant products from across the group. These can include consumer units and circuit protection products, wiring accessories to compliment any décor, smart controls, indoor and outdoor lighting including emergency and security lighting, CCTV, access control, cable accessories, fire protection, heating controls and thermostats. This demonstrates the breadth of products available and the ability of the group of companies to offer a one stop shop approach to a vast range of solutions. The Training section highlights some of the training and support available for specifiers and installers on its vast range of products. A number of CPD and CIBSE certified modules are available, allowing professionals to develop and enhance their skills. There is the opportunity to take part in training workshops, conferences and events, e-learning programs, best practice techniques and ideas sharing. Direct access from the Specifications Solutions brochure to the BIM libraries of each group company is available by scanning the relevant QR code for Click, Ovia, ESP, Unicrimp and Sangamo – which are all printed on the back page. The brochure can be downloaded from the Scolmore website as well as from its app. Click here for more on Scolmore Group.

Hanwha Vision launches the SolidEDGE camera

Hanwha Vision has launched the SolidEDGE camera - the first solid state drive-based camera (SSD) on the market with an embedded Wisenet WAVE VMS server.  There are two models in the range - the PNV-A6081R-E1T and PNV-A6081R-E2T. Both eliminate the need for an external server. Both also remove the requirement for a cloud subscription to store video footage or high speed connectivity to upload video onto the cloud, leaving you in control of your data stored locally on-site. A server-less solution The SolidEDGE camera runs the Wisenet WAVE VMS on the edge, which means it is a true server-less solution. It meets the growing need for a more efficient and cost-effective solution that ensures security and safety, without the need for a costly and space consuming server. This innovative system does not require scheduling OS and security updates like Windows servers running VMS do. This makes the camera particularly attractive for remote installations where there is no room for a server or NVR, for example, around ATMs, solar farms, electricity substations, level crossings, bus stations and small independent shops. Remote access and management As this camera comes equipped with cloud video management using Wisenet WAVE Sync, users can remotely access and manage the surveillance system from anywhere, using the Wisenet WAVE Mobile App. Video footage and data can be managed on-premise and from the cloud, with users able to customise their surveillance system to their specific needs with ease. Reliability and security The camera runs on the embedded Linux operating system with a powerful hardware system on the edge. The built-in rugged industrial-grade SSD provides additional benefits over traditional surveillance systems, making the system more reliable and recorded video more secure, as there is no need to stream video on the network between the camera and the recording server or cloud service. Because the SSD hosts the recording of video, database, and WAVE installation files, it ensures any incident is captured without delay. Additional cameras Each SolidEDGE camera can connect with up to five additional Hanwha cameras or third-party ONVIF conformant cameras (three with AI-enabled), enabling organisations to easily expand their surveillance systems as requirements evolve. This brings the total number of cameras per SolidEDGE system to six and offers a more customisable and flexible system structure. Storage options The SolidEDGE camera comes with two storage options, with the PNV-A6081R-E1T model having 1TB SSD storage and the PNV-A6081R-E2T model having 2TB SSD storage. This saves on costs, space and maintenance time. The built-in SSD drive offers reliable video storage within a wide range of operating temperatures. Operators are given further peace of mind with SSD Status Management which provides information on the health of the SSD drive. Hard-wearing design Additionally, the SolidEDGE camera has been designed with reinforced durability features including metal-shielded RJ-45 terminal and enhanced grounding frame structures that protect the camera from transient voltage. There is a built-in air vent that provides water vapour control to prevent condensation, and the hard-coated dome bubble covering the camera also provides better resistance to scratches. Click here more latest news.

Ansell upgrades popular Tornado EVO batten range

Significantly enhancing its functionality and appeal, Ansell Lighting has made several upgrades to its popular Tornado Evo batten range. Offering users improved energy efficiency, the Tornado EVO range is now capable of delivering 160lm/W, reducing electricity consumption and running costs. It has also remained power selectable, with both high and low output power options which deliver excellent light uniformity, thanks to a high transmittance polycarbonate diffuser. Featuring a smart new look, the range is available in four popular lengths, 600mm, 1200mm, 1500mm and 1800mm, and has been upgraded so that it is now CCT selectable between 4000K, 5000K and 6000K, allowing users to choose their desired lighting hue. For added functionality, a range of additional options such as OCTO Smart Control, Digital Dimming, Corridor Function, Integral Microwave Sensor, Self-Test and DALI Emergency versions, are also available. Crucially, the emergency option has been improved, so that the whole luminaire illuminates during emergency operation, not just a small area. The Tornado EVO range has been designed with ease of installation in mind and features an innovative spring clip gear tray release. It is also fitted with a Tridonic driver as standard, promises a long L70 54,000 hours LED lifespan, and comes with a five year warranty for added confidence. Speaking about the product update, Mark Abbott, Managing Director of Ansell Lighting, says, “The Tornado Evo is already a hugely popular product within our batten range, but by improving its functionality and performance, we have been able to ensure that it has much greater appeal and offers customers the solution they need in one package. Easy to install, energy efficient, CCT and power selectable, it now ticks all the boxes required across different applications. “As a manufacturer, we’ve been working hard to improve the sustainability of our operations, and one of the ways we have sought to do this is by reducing the number of unnecessary SKUs we have across our ranges. Tornado EVO is a great example of this. By enhancing this market leading range to offer all required options, we have been able to cease production of alternative products.” Click here for more on Ansell Lighting.

UK Power Networks to help London Trams stay safe and reliable

UK Power Networks has been awarded a two-year contract extension by London Trams to continue the inspection and maintenance of 13 trackside substations in the Croydon area. Originally appointed three years ago, both organisations have been working collaboratively to continuously deliver a reliable and efficient service for customers across South London. Philip Heathcote, Head of Markets at UK Power Networks Services, says, “We are delighted to be able to continue this very successful partnership with London Trams. The service we have provided has allowed us to continuously ensure the reliability of the tram service for passengers.” London Trams has set out an ambitious 15-year plan, Tram 2030, highlighting key improvements which will be made to accommodate growing demand, improved reliability, as well as the regeneration of Croydon town centre. The works undertaken by UK Power Networks will support this, through the maintenance of the energy infrastructure of electrical transformers, battery chargers, protection systems and emergency lighting. Ultimately, this will mean trams can become longer to accommodate more passengers, more frequent services into major interchanges like East Croydon and Wimbledon, and develop new connectivity as part of the longer-term plan for trams in South London. Darren Singh, Infrastructure Manager at London Trams, says, “We continue to work in partnership with UK Power Network Services, who support our frontline team to deliver our core service. “Our planned routine inspections keep the assets fit for passenger service, which is only achievable through the expertise provided by UK Power Network Services. “When outages occur, the fault finding, knowledge and response by the team always provides assurance that these are dealt with promptly and in a safe manner. I look forward to building on our great working relationship over the contract extension period.” Click here for more on UK Power Networks Services.

BGEN and Barrow Raiders encourage the next generation of women

Barrow Raiders has announced an exciting new partnership with BGEN. The organisation employs more than 1,000 employees and specialises in digital, electrical and mechanical engineering, with clients including FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 companies, such as AstraZeneca, British Steel and National Grid. One of the key aims of the new partnership with the Raiders will be to encourage more women in the area to try something different, such as rugby league and engineering. As part of this, BGEN will become the main commercial sponsor of the club's Raiders Girls side - an initiative that encourages young women aged five-16 to get into the sport. The firm supports locally when delivering projects for its clients and will continue to do so against initiatives set out in its ESG strategy - this sponsorship being the latest example. Steve Neale, Chairman, Barrow Raiders, says, "As part of the club's commitment to increase female opportunities and participation levels across the local area, this new partnership makes total sense for both parties. "Gaining the support of a high profile, reputable and esteemed organisation like BGEN is fantastic for the club and area as a whole, and we are delighted to welcome them to the Raiders family." Adele Neale, Commercial Manager, says, “Having worked with BGEN since December 2022, we have built a good working relationship with them and know exactly how community-driven they are. “As a club, we work very hard to make our sponsors feel incredibly special and encourage them to buy into our wider ethos, which is to improve the lives of the people closest to us.” Click here more latest news.

New poll: Only 22% of homeowners would choose a heat pump

As 59% of homeowners continue to favour gas heating systems, the construction sector has launched Green Home Festival to encourage public adoption of sustainable heating technologies. Homeowners remain hesitant towards heat pump technology, despite its pivotal role in achieving the nation's ambitious low carbon targets, according to a new poll by the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation (SNIPEF). From a poll of 1,100 adults, only 22% opted for a heat pump for their next home heating system, highlighting considerable public resistance towards transitioning to the more sustainable heating alternative. The majority continued to favour gas heating systems (59%), followed by electric (11%) and oil boilers (8%). Public resistance to heat pumps can be attributed mainly to the perceived complexity of the technology and an insufficient understanding of its long-term benefits over conventional systems. Additionally, the considerable upfront costs and the possible requirement for home modifications act as further deterrents, intensifying public hesitation. The poll findings follow the recent announcement by Home Energy Scotland that funding for solar PV and energy storage systems will only now be available as part of a package with a heat pump or high heat retention storage heaters. Commenting on the results, Fiona Hodgson, SNIPEF Chief Executive, says, "While these findings highlight the challenges we face, they also emphasise the need for further action. “As industry leaders, we need to address the misconceptions around heat pumps and do more to help households understand the environmental and financial benefits they offer. “The Construction Industry Collective Voice’s (CICV) Green Home Festival is one part of the solution, showcasing a range of green living options and technologies, such as heat pumps, to help homeowners take the necessary steps towards a sustainable future." Click here for more on Green Home Festival.

Carhartt launches new range of workwear dungarees

When it comes to workwear that combines practicality, durability and comfort, Carhartt's dungarees and overalls are in a league of its own. Designed to provide unrivalled reliability, while keeping you comfortable and protected from dirt and debris, these workwear essentials are the top choice for professionals who need gear they can depend on. Carhartt offers a diverse selection of dungarees for both men and women, ensuring everyone finds their perfect match. For women, the Rugged Flex Loose Fit Canvas Bib Overall (102438) merges the timeless appeal of duck overalls with the added bonus of soft stretch canvas fabric. Embrace unrestricted movement as you tackle any task, with a zip pocket on the chest for your phone and multiple slip-in pockets of varying sizes to house your tools. The double fabric layer at the knees allows room for knee pads, while the straight leg easily accommodates work boots. The Men's Loose Fit Denim Bib Overall (104672) has the familiar broken-in feel of midweight denim, fortified by Carhartt's triple-stitched seams. With a generous cut that allows you to climb, crawl and bend effortlessly, and an array of pockets for your tools, phone and coins, these overalls are built to endure and adapt. Adjust them easily for a custom fit that suits your needs. When the going gets tough, the Loose Fit Firm Duck Insulated Bib Overall (104393) steps up to the challenge. Made from rugged firm-hand duck canvas, these have a smooth quilted lining that ensures comfort from waist to ankle, while ankle-to-thigh leg zips provide quick ventilation when you need it most. Designed to withstand wind, light rain and the rigors of multiple seasons of hard work, these dungarees are a great shield against the elements. Carhartt's dungarees and overalls redefine the standard for workwear excellence, delivering unparalleled protection and convenience. Packed with innovative features such as ample storage, adjustable fits and durable fabrics, they set new standards of performance. Click here more latest news.

City Plumbing and Teenage Cancer Trust announce fundraising milestone

City Plumbing and Teenage Cancer Trust are celebrating a remarkable milestone after funds raised through their partnership reached the magical figure of £3m. The company has supported Teenage Cancer Trust since 2012, making it one of the charity’s longest standing ‘charity of the year’ partnerships. During that time, employees across the business have raised money through a wide range of fundraising activities, from hikes and climbs to cycle rides, treks, walks and marathons. One even had the Teenage Cancer Trust logo tattooed on his body to help raise funds! There’s no doubt that the money raised is needed. Every day, seven young people aged 13-24 hear the words, “you have cancer” in the UK. They will each need specialised nursing care and support to get them through it. Dr Louise Soanes, Chief Nurse, Teenage Cancer Trust, says, “On behalf of all Teenage Cancer Trust’s nurses, we’d like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to City Plumbing for all their fundraising. “The total raised means that we could provide over 100,000 hours of nursing care to young people with cancer, helping them to cope with the trauma of a diagnosis and making sure they are cared for during treatment. “Raising such a large sum of money is an incredible achievement and will make such a huge difference to so many.” Regional Manager, Mike Church, for instance, won a charity hero award last year after taking on an ‘Ulti-Mike Challenge’, which saw him run longer and longer distances across the year – culminating in a 72 mile run from Bognor to Poole. He says, “This charity has been in our lives for a very long time, TCT feels part of the family now. “The inspiration came years ago when a Teenage Cancer Trust ward was opened where I live in Southampton. That has driven a lot of our passion, being so close to home. “We raised just short of £15k in our region last year, and I am excited to see what we can reach this year with all the activities in the pipeline.” Click here more latest news.

Industry urged to embrace new ideas like microwave heating

The organisers of this year’s Green Home Festival have urged homeowners and the construction industry to be brave and embrace innovations like microwave heating to help build a more sustainable future and meet net zero targets. Scotland’s second renewables jamboree will kick off in less than two weeks, delivering 11 free shows on low-carbon living as part of the official Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV) says that its event on the potential of microwave heating is an example of a technology that could offer a real alternative to traditional fossil fuels – but only if people are brave enough to embrace it. The microwave heating show will be delivered on the first day of the festival by Professor Sean Smith, Director of The Centre for Future Infrastructure and Professor of Future Construction at the School of Engineering, the University of Edinburgh. Starting from 14 August, the event will focus on the origin of the new technology, how it works and how it could offer an alternative to traditional heating methods in our homes. Live Green Home Festival sessions will once again take place at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) at 10 Charlotte Square in central Edinburgh, with contributions from the likes of Home Energy Scotland, Scottish Water, SNIPEF and SELECT. Other topics covered will include creating sustainable kitchens, green garden rooms and offices, making retrofit projects eco-friendly, converting churches, and how the home of the future will be powered. Built Environment – Smarter Transformation will also host a webinar that will advise what consumers can do to reduce both their energy consumption and energy bills. Click here for latest industry events.

UK in danger of losing British tradespeople to jobs abroad

The UK construction industry is experiencing a severe labour shortage, with almost two-thirds (63%) of UK trades struggling to fill roles this year, according to Rated People. New research from the trades platform reveals that UK tradespeople are also looking to leave the country to find work abroad which could make the situation even worse. The countries where UK tradespeople want to work A better quality of life and enhanced career opportunities are driving UK tradespeople to seek work abroad and the new study uncovers which countries are attracting our skilled workers the most. Researchers at the trades platform analysed Google data for 15 types of trade jobs in different countries around the world. By comparing UK search volume over the past year with the previous 12 months, the results show where different trades are increasingly looking to find work around the world. In total, there were more than one million searches made for trade jobs in different countries since June 2022. Across the 15 trades, 10 are looking for work in Australia more than any other country. Saudi Arabia appears three times, and Brazil and Spain both feature once. For construction jobs in general, searches for jobs in Saudi Arabia have gone up the most, with interest rising by 293% over the past year. Australia is where cleaners are looking for work abroad the most, with search volume increasing by 183%. Search term YoY % increase in Google searches Construction jobs - Saudi Arabia 293% Cleaner jobs - Australia 183% Plumber jobs - Saudi Arabia 171% Painter jobs - Australia 158% Plasterer jobs - Australia 157% Roofer jobs - Australia 130% Carpenter jobs - Australia 129% Tiler jobs - Australia 129% Electrician jobs - Saudi Arabia 126% Gas engineer jobs -Australia 124% Gardener jobs - Australia 115% Bricklayer jobs - Australia 113% Builder jobs - Australia 87% Heating engineer jobs -Brazil 25% Handyperson jobs - Spain 20% Other factors contributing to the workforce shortage Brexit, a lack of young people getting into the industry, and the cost-of-living crisis are key factors contributing to the lack of skilled workers in the industry. Shockingly, the 2023 Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report reveals 48% of UK adults weren’t offered a trade career as a job option in careers advice at school. And, despite the UK government rolling out T-Levels to encourage more young people into apprenticeships, fewer than 10,000 students enrolled on a T-Level course last year. The newly rolled out initiative has also recently faced criticism. Ofsted says, the courses offer poor value, inappropriate work placements and high dropout rates, despite being described by the UK government as ‘gold standard’ vocational qualifications. As a result of fewer young people entering the workforce, the average age of trade workers in the UK is increasing. The most recent data is from 2018, where ONS reported one in every five UK-born construction workers was aged over 55, meaning that now (in 2023) they would have surpassed retirement age and not enough young people are entering the industry to fill the gaps. What needs to be done to solve the labour shortage Adrienne Minster, CEO of Rated People, comments, “The government’s latest bid to fix the shortage by relaxing visa requirements for foreign workers is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to fix the root cause by encouraging more young people into the industry. School careers advice should be highlighting the incredible opportunities available in the industry. Trade jobs can offer high earning potential and great work-life balance, and by choosing a vocational path after school, students can avoid the debt that many face from going through university and paying significant fees." Click here more latest news.