Health & Safety Update | FEBRUARY 2020
Industry News - Safety & Security - PPE - Tools & Equipment
Happy New Knees with The Redbacks Kneeler
Snickers Workwear ProtecWork increasing protection through layers.
Go-ahead for
Ground breaking new £150m mental health facilities at Springfield University Hospital see inside...
Go-ahead for ground breaking new £150m mental health facilities at springfield university hospital South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust (SWLSTG) has today announced that it has secured government approval to start work on its two new state-of-the-art facilities for south west Londoners. This multi-million-pound development will see the construction of two new mental health facilities set to open in 2022 on its largest site in Tooting, south London. This includes eight new inpatient wards which will be further boosted by the modernisation of the Trust’s community services. SWLSTG has already started construction work on this programme, which will include new housing and a 32-acre public park (the first of its kind since the 2012 London Olympics). The Trust has now formally signed contracts for the delivery of the Springfield University Hospital development with Springfield and Tolworth Estate Partnership (STEP), a 50/50 partnership between Sir Robert McAlpine Capital Ventures
Ltd and Kajima Partnerships. STEP will act as master developer for the site with Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd as main contractor for the new mental health units and the park, surrounding public realm and infrastructure. This huge milestone in the Trust’s Estate Modernisation Programme marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the way the SWLSTG delivers mental health services for 1.1m south west Londoners. The Trust received government approval for its Full Business Case for the development following extensive engagement with the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS Improvement, NHS England and Her Majesty’s Treasury.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
Ann Beasley CBE, Chair of South West London and St. George’s Mental Health NHS Trust said: “This is the biggest landmark yet in our Estate Modernisation Programme and we are extremely proud of getting permission to go ahead and being able to start work on these brand-new, first class inpatient facilities. “This new environment will make a huge difference to our patients and the way we provide the best quality care towards their recovery. “It is incredibly important to us that we provide patients with the best environment and services possible and we are pleased to have done this primarily through raising our own funds. “Furthermore, this work will ensure that the Springfield University Hospital site is regenerated in a way which reduces the stigma of mental health conditions by integrating our organisation with our community.” Vanessa Ford, Acting Chief Executive of South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust said: “We have been developing the plans for our brand-new mental health inpatient wards for many years and we are delighted to have received government approval, meaning we can begin construction on these state-ofthe-art inpatient buildings.
The plans, now formally approved, will bring forward a range of benefits to the people who use the Trust’s services, their carers and the local community, including: • World class mental health facilities: delivering the best care for patients • 839 brand new homes: providing housing for local families in Tooting • A 32-acre public park: providing excellent outdoor space including a gym and play areas for our local community • Community shops and a café: for local residents to meet and relax • Extensive community healthcare: treating people closer to their families and their home • District heating system and centralised energy centre: providing efficient heating and reducing carbon emissions • Land to be made available for a new school: investing in our children’s future • More than £5 million for new transport facilities: boosting transport links for local residents
“The wards will revolutionise the way we deliver care for generations to come and ensure we can provide high quality and safe services. The new facilities have been carefully designed alongside our clinicians and service users to provide the most supportive environment and innovative facilities for the delivery of mental health care. “As well good news for patients, the new hospital facilities will be good news for the environment with much more efficient use of energy and working towards a carbon neutral footprint.” Harriet Gladwell-Phillips, the STEP General Manager commented: “We are delighted to be involved in the Estate Modernisation Programme at Springfield. It’s a pioneering project for the NHS providing not only much needed high quality mental health facilities, but also housing and new green spaces for south west London. “The whole area will benefit from the redevelopment of the site, which will bring together new and existing people who live and work at Springfield to create a community with mental health and wellbeing at its heart.”
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WELCOME February 2020
Contents COVER STORY
Go-ahead for ground breaking new £150m mental health facilities at springfield university hospital
04
Industry News
10
PPE, Tools & Equipment
18
Safety Vehicles
28
Safe Buildings, Structures
8
A-safe launching a new generation of Intelligent 24/7 rack protection at imhx
4
National Forklift Safety Convention focuses on the need for front-line leadership and a culture of trust
4 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
INDUSTRY NEWS
A-SAFE LAUNCHING A NEW GENERATION OF INTELLIGENT 24/7 RACK PROTECTION AT IMHX Rack impacts can lead to operational disruption, missed KPIs and escalating maintenance costs.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 5
INDUSTRY NEWS In the most extreme cases, they might even result in racks collapsing. RackEye offers an intelligent solution to this problem by monitoring warehouse racking 24/7 and instantly notifying warehouse management when an impact has occurred.
A-SAFE is to unveil the latest version of RackEye at this year’s IMHX. RackEye 2.0 builds upon many of the features of the original, while offering enhanced functionality thanks to new cloud-based technology. The RackEye system monitors the health of racking and provides real time notifications in the event of an impact. It works fully independently of the customer’s existing IT infrastructure. RackEye provides a leased turnkey solution for large manufacturing, logistics and distribution businesses to ensure the sustained safety of their employees, customers and equipment – without the need for significant capital expenditure. RackEye works by actively monitoring racking infrastructure via intelligent sensors fitted to the legs of warehouse racks. If these detect that an impact has occurred, the system will pinpoint the affected rack and send an immediate SMS notification to the warehouse management team. This allows them to assess any damage immediately and take remedial action if necessary. RackEye not only addresses the immediate dangers of racking damage, but also supports companies with achieving their longterm strategic warehouse objectives. The RackEye Dashboard provides detailed insight into historical impact trends, allowing users to identify impact hotspots across
multiple locations, target predictive maintenance activities and address warehouse layout problems. Live RackEye installations at customer locations have demonstrated that use of the system can lead to a substantial reduction in rack impacts and positive changes in driver behaviour. By detecting rack impacts and alerting warehouse managers the instant incidents occur, RackEye encourages forklift drivers to take greater care when loading and unloading racks. Furthermore, statistical data of when and where impacts are occurring helps warehouse managers to identify impact hotspots, as well determine when additional driver training might be required. Luke Smith, Co-owner and Managing Director of A-SAFE says, “This new intelligent system has been successfully running in a number of customer locations and they have been delighted with the results. They are benefitting from changes in driver behaviour, detailed KPI reporting and measurement, and reductions in incidents. One customer has even reported a 75 percent reduction in impacts across the legs where they’ve been trialling it. It is great to see that our customers are just as enthusiastic about the enhanced system as we are. RackEye aims to transform safety in the warehouse industry in the UK and around the world.”
8 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
INDUSTRY NEWS
ENHANCE the display of your essential health & safety materials Commercial organisations are legally obliged to provide accessible and essential health & safety information and equipment in their premises. This may be in the way of a first aid kit and disposable gloves dispenser in your kitchen, an HSE law poster in your reception, or fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures dotted around your venue. Often these items are installed at various times by different personnel which could lead to an inconsistent appearance and potentially detrimental placement of vital safety equipment and information. Leading supplier of safety equipment and signage, SafetySigns4Less.co.uk, has developed a range of durable, costeffective and fully equipped safety stations, specially designed to ensure compliance to health & safety law, provide clear and easy access to safety equipment and information, and provide a professional display that will enhance the appearance of any venue.
First aid stations The size and contents of first aid kits differ depending on the location in which they are placed. Our range of first aid stations provide venues with a number of options including standard, burns, eyewash and biohazard stations. Unlike other providers, each SafetySigns4Less station comes fully equipped with an HSE or BSI compliant first aid kit, GDPR compliant accident book, clear first aid advice, a law poster where applicable and write on panels for first aider names and locations.
Click here to view our range of first aid stations.
Fire point stations Whether you need a fire blanket station for your kitchen, an alarm station for your front of house, or professional housing for your fire extinguishers, SafetySigns4Less has a station to meet your needs. As with our first aid stations, all fire stations are provided fully equipped with compliant fire fighting equipment, advice, GDPR compliant logbooks and fire action notices.
Click here to view our range of fire point stations.
Hygiene stations Offering hand sanitiser, disposable gloves and disposable aprons is an easy way to avoid potential cross contamination and prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Our stations allow for prominent display and storage of essential hygiene items, thus encouraging staff to use them as required.
Click here to view our range of hygiene stations. SafetySigns4Less also offers a range of personal protective equipment stations designed to keep PPE items off the floor, clean and available at the point of need. To find out more visit www.SafetySigns4Less.co.uk or call 0808 1699 147.
4 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 9
InDUSTrY nEwS
INDUSTRY NEWS
GEZE UK sets new standards GEZE UK is setting new standards having achieved the ISO 45001:2018 accreditation for Health and Safety – one of the first in the industry to gain the new award. The company is also the first of GEZE’s worldwide subsidiaries to gain the accreditation. ISO 45001 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for a management system that uses robust and effective processes for improving work safety in global supply chains and is also the world’s first international standard for occupational health and safety. Designed to help organisations of all sizes and industries, ISO states that the new international standard is expected to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses.
Gavin Downes HSQE Manager at GEZE UK (left) with GEZE UK managing director Kaz Spiewakowski, with the certificate.
The four-stage process presents a vigorous certification route to document the company’s efforts towards implementing change and applying checks and balances to ensure that standards are met. The achievement follows the company’s previous successes when it achieved ISO 9001 – quality and the ISO 14001 environmental standards. Said Kaz Spiewakowski managing director of GEZE UK: “This is a huge achievement and it should be
acknowledged that this was achieved through the efforts, hard work and determination to improve the business by every member of the company. It is only through this constant desire to improve and excel, that GEZE UK continues to change for the better ensuring that the safety of our people, assets and anyone we work or interact with is a priority.” For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk
10 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
HAPPY NEW KNEES
With the Redbacks Kneeler Redbacks Cushioning Limited, designers of the award winning, ‘Leaf-Spring’ cushioning technology offers a range of products to help protect the knees and body from damage caused by kneeling. Deciding to really look after your knees is a new year’s resolution you’ll be very glad you made and with perfect timing Redbacks have introduced their new ‘Kneeler mat’, an every-day ‘tool’ for many trade professionals as well as having multiple applications in and around the home and office. Giving long term anti-fatigue support and maximum comfort from kneeling in any direction the mat features 28 multi-directional leaf springs held within a thermoplastic honeycomb matrix; unlike rubber matting, foam or gel based products which can either be too hard or lose their cushioning properties the Redbacks Kneeler instantly returns to its original shape after each use; this unique combination is scientifically proven to reduce point pressure and distribute weight providing allday comfort and helping to protect against muscoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis. Suitable for dry or damp conditions, this versatile mat has a waterproof base, is slip and penetration resistant, provides thermal protection from warm or cold surfaces, is easily portable and as with all Redbacks products has a fully washable cover at 30c and a 100% recyclable cushion. It can also be used as a comfortable seat cushion and even to stand on with the same weight distribution and tiredness-reducing benefits. The Redbacks Kneeler weighs 1363gm and is 450mm long, 270mm wide and 35 mm deep. For more information visit www.redbackscushioning.com email: sales@redbackscushioning.com or telephone: 01327 702104
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 11
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
SNICKERS WORKWEAR PROTECWORK – increasing protection through layers. This fully accredited and independently tested Protective Wear for heat, flame, electrical arc and chemical risk environments delivers market-leading risk-protection in a wide range of hazardous working environments. The key features and benefits of the clothing includes the hi-tech, advanced fabric technology integral to the Base-, Mid- and Top-Layer garments for both men and women that combine well with the Snickers Workwear hallmarks of best-inclass durability, comfort, ergonomics and fit.
Wear layers to increase your protection. Research carried out by Snickers Workwear in the toughest of working environments has concluded that the best ways to improve your level of protection is to wear layers. The main benefit of wearing layers is that the air gap formed between different garments provides increased protection. ProtecWork clothing is fully accredited to a variety of risk and bad weather working environments and all the garments are manufactured from tailor-made fabrics designed to respond to the demands of the conditions in which they’re worn.
So with over 60 different garments and accessories to choose from, you can make sure you get the right protection, visibility, flexibility, comfort and durability. Check out the new Snickers Workwear ProtecWork range to fit your workday and wellbeing on site. For more information on Snickers Workwear’s ProtecWork Range, call the Hultafors Group UK Helpline on 01484 854788, checkout the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk
12 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
Mapei completes FRP structural strengthening at London office space Mapei products have been used as part of internal renovation works at the Local Government Association’s Layden House office situated in Farringdon, London. The 1970’s building underwent significant work, whereby Specialist Contractor Gunite (Eastern) Ltd requested a feasible solution using Mapei’s composite materials for structural strengthening work. The project required new openings to be created through the reinforced concrete slab to provide space for services and a new lift. Before cutting the openings, the slabs needed to be strengthened to redistribute the loads around the hole which meant designing for increased flexural loads and, where the holes were close to columns, also designing for punching shear. A feasible solution was proposed by Mapei, which included the use of Mapewrap C Fiocco carbon fibre cord and Carboplate, a pultruded carbon fibre plate pre-impregnated with epoxybased resin. The proposed design was accepted by the client as a cost-effective solution. The solution was approved and adopted by the engineers, and it was implemented by Gunite (Eastern) Ltd after they were instructed to undertake the work by the Main Contractor Gilbert-Ash. The design, where the service holes were cut near to columns, involved bonding Mapei Carboplate E170 plates to the top of the slab, with the plates on top of the slab connected into the column with the Mapewrap C Fiocco. This increased the ultimate slab deflection and improved the punching shear capacity of the slab. Where the new lift was to be later installed, the design required a larger section of the slab to be cut out, which involved bonding Carboplate E170 plates around the location of the new lift and would therefore control the distribution of bending moments around the hole.
After the surface preparation of all the areas to receive Mapei Carboplate, holes were drilled into the junction of the column and the slab for the application of Mapewrap C Fiocco. Once the holes were drilled, Mapewrap C Fiocco carbon fibre connectors – previously prepared by cutting the cord to the designed length and impregnating half the cut length in Mapewrap 31 adhesive and allowing them to dry – were inserted into the holes leaving half the cut length protruding from the hole.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 13
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
Carboplate E170 was then applied to the prepared concrete slab using Mapewrap Primer 1 and Adesilex PG1 adhesive, as per the design. First, the surface was primed with Mapewrap Primer 1 to ensure a good adhesion to the structural concrete. With the primer still tacky, Adesilex PG1 was applied to the primed substrate, and the cut length of Carboplate E170 was then offered up to the adhesive on the slab and pushed together. A hard rubber roller was then used to apply pressure ensuring that a full bond was achieved between the concrete substrate and the plate, and ensuring that any excess adhesive was removed. The Mapewrap C Fiocco that was previously left protruding from the hole had the protective sheath removed, and was then bonded onto the Carboplate E170 using Mapewrap 31 adhesive.
14 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
A-SAFE launches new barrier range for cold storage environments
TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE NEW RANGE PLEASE VISIT THE COMPANY’S WEBSITE.
Workplace safety innovator A-SAFE has launched a new range of safety barriers specifically designed for sub-zero temperatures. The new Cold Storage range has been engineered to provide the highest levels of protection to pedestrians, assets and infrastructure in temperatures as low as -30°C. The products have been engineered using Memaplex™ Sub-Zero, a new material specifically developed for use in cold storage environments. Created from a unique blend of polymers, Memaplex Sub-Zero is designed to flex and withstand impacts without cracking or fragmenting. It is food-safe, wipe clean and self-coloured for maximum hygiene and ease of care. Cold Storage barriers incorporate the patented A-SAFE three-phased coupling system, which works in three sequential stages to cushion impact forces and dissipate energy through the barrier and away from fixings. This prevents damage and preserves floors, reducing costs and downtime associated with repairs and maintenance. Luke Smith, A-SAFE Co-owner and Managing Director says, “As a company we are always striving to solve customer problems. We identified that there were no purpose-designed polymer safety barriers specifically for frozen food storage facilities. Typically, when plastic is cold it becomes brittle and therefore, less effective.
However, Memaplex Sub-Zero has been scientifically engineered to deliver optimum protection and flexibility in very cold environments.” From the robust rack protection of Rack Guard, to resilient compliant fork protection, bollards, barriers and height restrictors, the Cold Storage range offers a full suite of premium safety products for applications within cold storage facilities.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 15
PPE, TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET The Latest Footwear Technology from U-Power – Personal Anti-Fatigue Matting Italian safety footwear manufacturer U-Power has just launched the most technologically-advanced safety shoe on the market – the Red-Carpet.
The Red-Carpet range of 20 different styles, to our knowledge is the first in the world to feature its very own, anti-fatigue matting insert in every outer sole, made from a revolutionary new material from BASF.
shape of the foot. Two of the styles feature Hypertex Putek® technology, a breathable and water-repellent material that is 20 times more abrasion-resistant than traditional materials.
Wearing a Red-Carpet shoe feels like standing on an anti-fatigue mat. The shoe stimulates the foot to continually revitalise blood flow and energy through the legs and feet, so eases fatigue and exerts a positive influence across the whole body, relieving neck, back, leg and joint pain, increasing circulation, providing exceptional comfort and hugely improving the working day.
U-Power’s Managing Director, Stuart Thorne, said: “Gone are the days of expensive, slippery, hard to clean and maintain anti-fatigue matting that constantly needs to be replaced. The matting has been transferred from the workplace floor to the Red-Carpet shoe, sending the body stress relief they need direct to the wearer’s feet.
Every Red-Carpet shoe comes as ESD as standard, is lightweight and flexible,highly slip resistant and features an anti-static, shock-absorbing, breathable Elastopan® memory + Gel insole that moulds to the
“And gone are the days of fatigued and aching legs and limbs for those whose jobs entail a lot of standing and little movement, such as in the automotive or packaging industries. The stress and trauma of a fixed work position are removed, just by wearing the Red-Carpet.”
For more information, email info.uk@u-power.it, call +44 (0)1543 417 241, or go to
https://www.u-power.it/en/safety-shoes-collection-red-carpet
The Original 'British Vacuum Cleaner'
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Quirepace Ltd, 6 Pennant Park, Fareham, PO16 8XU www.quirepace.co.uk sales@quirepace.co.uk
Tough Machines for Tough Jobs
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 17
INDUSTRY NEWS
RRC LAUNCH NEW COURSE: NEBOSH Safety Simplified RRC are the UK’s largest provider of health & safety and environmental management training qualifications, and we are delighted to announce the launch of this new health & safety course. Safety Simplified has been created by NEBOSH and utilises the concept of augmented reality (AR) to bring safety learning to life. This three day course aims to get every member of the workplace involved in health and safety. The ultimate aim is to drive down incidents by ensuring workplace staff are provided with accessible, practical health and safety training.
is also available via online study which can be accessed worldwide. In-Company delivery can be arranged and tailored to your company’s specific needs, no matter the location.
Safety Simplified is suitable for those working in every sector, and requires minimal set-up. The courses uses real-life case studies along with numerous safety issues covered in the AR re-enactments, including noise, vibration, desk working, mechanical hazards and manual handling. Learners will also complete a simple risk assessment.
Gary Fallaize, RRC Managing Director commented: ‘’The Safety Simplified course will inspire a revolution in health and safety training and how it is delivered. Using AR technology helps learners understand the practical reality of health and safety; and workplaces will be able to measure success after training members of staff by driving down incidents, absenteeism and a reduction in illness and injury.’’
The Safety Simplified course is available now, RRC currently have six UK training centres running this course. It
For further information call +44(0)20 8944 3100, email info@rrc.co.uk, or visit www.rrc.co.uk
Construction industry shows support for new Common Assessment Standard The construction industry is getting behind a new scheme designed to simplify and strengthen the construction prequalification process. According to CHAS, which was the first recognised assessment body to certify companies against the new Common Assessment Standard, over 30 of the construction industry’s biggest names have announced their support for the scheme since it was launched in May 2019. At the same time interest among contractors, who recognise early sign up as an opportunity to get ahead of their competition, is extremely high. Led by Build UK and the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), the Common Assessment Standard replaces a multitude of prequalification schemes with a simplified process based on a single industry-agreed questionnaire. Once the new system is fully up and running it will be the primary route to prequalification in construction replacing the need for clients to specify a specific assessment body. Meanwhile contractors will only need one annual assessment, saving both parties time and money. The Common Assessment Standard is based on existing PQ questionnaires, including PAS 91, but its
remit is broader, covering topics including Modern Slavery, Finances, Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility, reflecting an overall drive towards more stringent supply chain standards that reflect recent changes and priorities in the marketplace. CHAS Managing Director, Ian McKinnon said: “CHAS is the first recognised assessment body to certify companies against the Common Assessment Standard living up to our reputation for leading the way in driving standards in prequalification. “CHAS is very proud to be at the forefront of the new scheme working with some of the biggest names in the industry. With a reputation for providing the best service at the best value CHAS is committed to making accreditation as accessible as possible. Equally for contractors who require additional support CHAS has a package of membership offerings designed to help their clients to be the best.”
18 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
SAFETY VEHICLES
RINEY TURNS TO SENTINEL FOR
RELIABLE VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS Riney is a civil engineering contractor with 40 years’ experience of working in London. The company delivers highway maintenance and improvement services for a client base which is predominately London local authorities and currently holds long term contracts with the City of London, Royal Borough of Greenwich, London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest and Bromley and Harrow Council. To achieve the highest standard across its transport fleet and address the challenges its drivers encounter on the heavily congested streets of the capital, Riney has recently worked with Sentinel Systems to install camera and recording devices and cyclist warning signs. With new Direct Vision regulations announced for this year, Riney decided it was essential to make further investment in safety equipment for its vehicles, and turned to Sentinel Systems after hearing about them from a third party. The commercial vehicle safety specialists fitted, forward, side-scan and rear cameras to 25 HGVs giving drivers a clear view of the vehicle’s blind spots. The cameras are linked to an in-cab MDVR (mobile digital video recorder) that records up to 30 days of footage, allowing Riney to use the footage to investigate and deal with any potential incidents. Riney also chose to install Sentinel’s LED cycle signs onto the vehicles to provide extra protection for vulnerable cyclists. The sign is a sturdy and robust design with ultra-bright LEDs giving cyclists approaching the rear of the vehicle a clear warning that the vehicle is about to turn left. Steve King, Plant and Transport Manager at Riney, commented, “Moving our people and materials around the streets of London is fundamental to our business, but we are acutely aware of the impact our operations have on the daily lives of others as we deliver our highway services in busy, congested inner London
environments with conflicting demands on road space. As a FORS Gold accredited company, Riney continues to explore ways to make further improvements to our fleet and provide our drivers with the latest in-cab technology. Sentinel’s systems help the driver with 360° vision, increasing their awareness of other road users, particularly more vulnerable cyclists and pedestrians. The system also provides invaluable evidence when it comes to potential insurance claims.” He continued, “We chose Sentinel is for its product reliability and also the ability to back-up footage on an SD card is a very useful tool for our business. The engineers that attended the site were very polite and professional, and because of the quality service we received, our six recently purchased HGVs will all be installed with Sentinel’s LED cycle sign and camera systems.” Sentinel Systems’ safety camera package can be customised to meet the individual requirements of each fleet, depending on the size and operations of each vehicle. The camera system can be created using any number of Sentinel’s systems, including forward, rear and side facing cameras for a 360° view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Further information is available from Sentinel on 01285 771333 or by emailing sales@sentinelsystems.co.uk or by visiting the company’s website at www.sentinelsystems.co.uk
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 19
SAFETY VEHICLES
A bright future for forklift training A prominent forklift training provider has opened new opportunities for workplace transport training in the South West following its recent accreditation by the Association of Industrial Truck Trainers. “Our aim is to help produce the best instructors, which will benefit the industry in the future, and AITT will help us do that. One of the reasons we chose AITT was the outstanding level of guidance that the organisation provides to training providers and instructors. The team is very friendly and registering with AITT was simple and straightforward; we really enjoy working with them. “What also stood out to us was the great work that AITT has been doing recently to spread the message about the importance of accredited training. AITT wants to make a difference, and so do we, so it made perfect sense to join. It’s a win-win really.”
HL Training Services receives AITT accreditation Shane Richardson (right)
Based in Bristol, HL Training Services provides onsite and in-house training for forklift instructors and operators. Despite being accredited by industry bodies ITSSAR and RTITB, HL Training Services’ management team made the major decision to gain a third accreditation, after noticing a lack of availability for AITT courses in the West Country.
Managing Director of AITT, Adam Smith, said: “It’s great to have HL Training Services onboard as this is big step in expanding our network in the South West region. Shane and his team are really committed to ensuring that forklift instructor and operator training is the best it can be, which is an ethos AITT shares.” Shane believes that providing a greater availability of local options for forklift training will be key for encouraging people to choose accredited courses, as opposed to choosing less reliable non-accredited training. “Using accredited providers is essential because it gives you proof that the training has been completed to a defined standard, whereas non-accredited training isn’t registered,” explained Shane.
“Anyone in the South West looking to attend AITT training courses would have to travel to the Midlands or further east,” said Shane Richardson, Director at HL Training Services. “But our new AITT Accreditation means we can provide courses from Bristol, and give people in the surrounding counties, or even those along the south coast, a more local option. We’re essentially creating a South West hub for AITT training that wasn’t there before. It’s a really exciting development.”
“Accredited training includes an in-depth check and the paperwork is audited to prove that it has been done properly. It gives you peace of mind more than anything. Ideally everyone would choose it, but training organisations such as ours have to make it as easy as possible for people by providing local centres and instructors. The cost of registering to AITT is a nominal fee and it’s insignificant compared to the huge benefits accreditation brings.”
Two-thirds of HL Training Services’ instructors will receive AITT registration. In addition, the company is aiming to have one Category 4 tutor accredited to AITT, who will be qualified to teach operators and instructors, a significant move that will allow HL Training Services to offer a greater number of courses.
Adam added: “AITT welcomes training providers from any area of the country who are looking to make the easy switch to a supportive accrediting body. Our focus is always on providing the advice and resources that enable providers to deliver exceptional courses to the highest industry standards. I’ve no doubt that HL Training Services will do just that.”
“We ‘train the trainer’, so by ensuring that our instructors are taught to accredited standards, then in turn they will go on to teach forklift operators how to work safely in accordance with HSE guidelines,” said Shane.
For further information contact Shane Richardson on 0117 952 5625 OR Call Adam Smith of AITT on 01530 810867 or email: Adam@aitt.co.uk
20 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
SAFETY VEHICLES
FORKLIFT SAFETY:
It’s no accident National Forklift Safety Convention focuses on the need for front-line leadership and a culture of trust The presentations may have been diverse but a single, powerful theme ran through this year’s National Forklift Safety Convention: the need for strong, authentic and engaged management creating an environment where staff feel heard, valued, and genuinely involved. The result is a virtuous loop where all feel free to speak openly and honestly in order to sustain a common and evolving safety culture. Organised by the Fork Lift Truck Association and attended by hundreds of managers and supervisors from all sectors, the award-winning event was opened by FLTA Chief Executive Tim Waples, who gave a poignant address. Calling for an industry-wide change in attitude, he said: “An ‘accident’ sounds
apologetic, like it’s just one of those things that couldn’t be helped, but the truth is all ‘accidents’ can be prevented.” The Convention was hosted by Stuart Taylor of Safety Partner Mentor FLT Training and was sponsored by Toyota Materials Handling. Focussing on the need for both real-world safety measures as well as a culture shift in achieving lasting improvement, presenters were in complete agreement that the starting point lies with a senior management that is dedicated, congruent and demonstrates — in every action — their commitment to site safety.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 21
SAFETY VEHICLES The tone for the day was set with the screening of Lisa’s Story, a short but devastating account of the tragic incident and the aftermath that followed when office worker Lisa Ramos was run over by a forklift truck and lost her leg. Available on the FLTA website, the video has been used by two of the events most engaging contributors Paul Davies and Christian Hamilton of Kellogg’s. In a series of toolbox talks held at Europe’s largest cereal factory, the video had a profound effect on colleagues who viscerally understood the importance of safety and of looking out for each other. As one colleague summed up: “I don’t want that happening to me… or any of my workmates.” Voted winners of the coveted FLTA Safe Site Award, Kellogg’s provided a wealth of practical tips and guidance and was the first in a series of three fascinating case histories in which they, DHL and Aggregate Industries shared the actions they had taken to transform the safety of their forklift truck operations. Exploring the ways that safety can be evaluated, Mike Belson of Aggregate Industries pointed out that the absence of accidents doesn’t equate to the existence of safety. He suggested that rather than evaluating success by the things you don’t want to happen (accidents and incidents) safety should be measured by the things you want to see. According to behavioural psychologist Prof Tim Marsh, for change to be successful, management must engage meaningfully with those who work on and alongside forklifts in order to obtain their total buy-in. As Prof Marsh explained: “A company’s culture is what happens when you’re not there.
When it comes to operating safely, your staff know all the answers… all you need to do is ask them… and genuinely listen. “Trust is key to improving a company’s culture and that works both ways. Be prepared for mistakes — they are inevitable but they are also an opportunity to learn and improve. Above all, avoid blame as that is corrosive to trust. And remember, you can’t just tell a workforce to behave differently, changing the situation is ten times easier than changing the person. If you want your people to care, you have to show them the company cares.” Keynote speaker Kanwal Kanda, Head of Transportation for the HSE, underlined the need for constant monitoring as bad practice often develops over time through inadequate management systems which allow opportunities for correction to be missed, ignored or misunderstood. He also offered valuable practical guidance, emphasising, like Prof Marsh, the need for acknowledging human nature. He spoke of the importance of considering “desire lines” when setting out pedestrian walkways. If the routes are counterintuitive, no-one will use them. He also stressed the importance of creating a segregated viewing space where visiting lorry drivers can see and influence the safe loading of their vehicle, for which they will ultimately be responsible. Explaining the value of the event, Tim Waples said: “The Convention provides delegates with the opportunity to see the latest equipment first-hand in the Safety Exhibition, to receive guidance from leading experts and to network with like-minded colleagues willing to share their experiences and solutions.”
The Fork Lift Truck Association is the UK’s independent authority on forklift trucks. For more information, please visit www.fork-truck.org.uk or call 01635 277577.
22 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
SAFETY VEHICLES
PRECON PRODUCTS takes a sideways look at safety with new Mercedes-Benz Econic A heightened focus on the health and safety of truck drivers delivering to construction sites in London prompted Precon Products to develop an innovative dropside body concept based on a Mercedes-Benz Econic chassis. The fast-growing company’s new 26-tonner is fitted with hydraulically operated walkways which run the full length of its bed and are accessed via fold-out steps. As a result, the driver does not have to clamber over the back to reach the load. Precon Products, which has just moved the short distance from its previous base to a purpose-built headquarters on a four-acre site in Bury St Edmunds, took advantage of competitive funding support from MercedesBenz Finance to acquire its first truck. Chosen primarily for its low-entry cab and impeccable Direct Vision safety credentials, the Econic 2635 L was supplied by East Anglia Dealer Orwell Truck & Van. It is powered by a high-torque, 7.7-litre straight-six engine which generates 260 kW (354 hp) and drives through a 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmission. The six-wheeler’s body was designed and built by ZJB Engineering, of Wisbech. Launched in June 2018 by Zennon Blackburn, who has an 18-year track record in the industry, the firm is already winning a reputation for its engineering capability. Deployment of one or both of the 500 mmwide walkways automatically activates strobe lights fitted beneath the platform at both ends. A fall arrest system means the dropsides are always raised when the walkways are in use. The truck is also equipped to FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) Gold standard with a full complement of safety cameras and side scanners. Finished in a distinctive livery applied by DJ Elbury & Son, also of Wisbech, it is being inspected and maintained under a MercedesBenz Complete Service Contract at Orwell Truck & Van’s Newmarket workshop.
Precon Products was established in 2008, and is now a £44-million turnover business, supplying a comprehensive range of products, tools, and accessories to the construction and building sectors nationwide. It also has depots in Northamptonshire, South Yorkshire, and Surrey. Precon Products has supported developers working on a number of high-profile developments in London, including The Shard, and the new US Embassy. The company continues to rely on three haulage contractors to fulfil its transport commitments – between them they operate a fleet of 30 vehicles, all of which wear Precon Products’ colours.
“These days customers insist that vehicles must have side rails so no-one falls”
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 23
SAFETY VEHICLES
“However, we’re employing a driver and running the Econic ourselves,” explained Managing Director Mike Philpot. “It’s all multi-drop work in London, which means that drivers often have to access the back of the truck to move products and materials around, and get them off. “These days customers insist that vehicles must have side rails so no-one falls, which is great from a health and safety perspective. But if the truck is fully loaded there’s no room for the driver, so he ends up clambering over everything. That’s potentially dangerous in itself, and understandably the sites don’t like it. “I therefore came up with the idea of adding walkways down the sides of the vehicle, which the driver can deploy at the touch of a button when he arrives on a site. He can then do whatever he needs to do, before getting off the back of the truck without risk of injury.” Mr Philpot continued: “I’m not an engineer, so sat down with the bodybuilder and together we came up with a plan. There are other vehicles out there with variations of our walkway which drivers have
to pull out manually. But when you’re on multi-drop deliveries time is of the essence, and to be quick you need an automatic solution. The truck is a prototype but the initial feedback from customers who’ve seen it has been very encouraging. If it works as we hope it will, then it could be a game-changer.” Commenting on his choice of the Econic chassis, Mr Philpot added: “Mercedes-Benz trucks are widely recognised as the best on the market when it comes to reliability and whole-life costs. “The Econic is also ideally suited to operation on London’s congested streets in terms of safety. Its deep, wraparound windscreen and full-height glazed side door contributes to excellent all-round visibility. The fact that the driver sits so much lower than he would in a conventional truck also allows him to make direct eye contact with vulnerable road users, especially cyclists, at junctions and in traffic.” Although Precon Products has not previously operated its own trucks, it uses a trio of 3.5-tonne Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis cabs supplied by Orwell Truck & Van and fitted with dropside bodies to make urgent, same-day deliveries. “The Dealer provides an excellent service, and its Truck Sales Executive Chris Benefer was very helpful when we came to order the Econic,” added Mr Philpot. www.preconproducts.co.uk
BRINGING SURFACES TO LIFE EXPLORE THE UK’S LEADING DESIGN SHOWCASE WWW.SURFACEDESIGNSHOW.COM
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 25
INDUSTRY NEWS
JACKSONS FENCING LAUNCHES ITS FIRST ISSUE 8 CERTIFIED SECURITY MESH Security solutions manufacturer Jacksons Fencing has expanded its range of certified products with Securi-Mesh A1. The new product is a 358 mesh, commonly referred to as prison mesh, designed for applications that specifically demand robust and reliable security. Its small apertures and welds at each intersection make it climb resistant, prevent objects being passed through and provide effective defence against conventional hand cutting tools. The addition of security rated Securi-Mesh to Jacksons’ range is a response to the increasing diversity of modern-day threats, and will give specifiers more options to adapt security architecture to the situation. The product’s launch also represents a number of milestones. It is the 16th Jacksons Fencing product to be certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB). Securi-Mesh launches in tandem with LPCB’s new LPS 1175: Issue 8 classification system. This matrix style classification system, indicated by the tool category and minimum delay (minutes), offers greater flexibility and clarity around security specification. The updated classification also supports a proportionate, layered approach to security, facilitating far more economical specification of forced entry protection.
Under Issue 8, Securi-Mesh’s SR1 rating is now classified as ‘A1’. This means it will reliably endure an attack time of one minute with tools such as engineer hooks, glass cutters, pliers and punches. Ideal for light to medium security applications, the barrier provides clear visibility making it easier for occupants or CCTV to spot potential attackers. Peter Jackson, managing director, Jacksons Fencing, comments, “We’re constantly adapting and evolving as the security environment develops, so we’re delighted our new Securi-Mesh is one of the first products to be classified by Issue 8. The new system will deliver greater understanding to those specifying security solutions, a much needed addition to LPCB’s stringent certification process. It’s important that all security firms work with the new compliance systems, as this will boost the industry’s response to complex and varied threats.”
26 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
SAFE BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES
STABILISING SOILS AT ARLEY TUNNEL The Arley Tunnel site dates to 1864, when it was opened by Midland Railway on the Whitacre to Nuneaton line, as part of the Birmingham to Leicester route. The tunnel itself was constructed on the highest point along the route between Arley and Stockingford and was subject to subsidence inside the tunnel. In fact, the tunnel was closed completely to passenger traffic on 14 December 1948, to address settlement works, when part of the tunnel was opened out into cutting and drainage and pressure grouting were undertaken. Today the site continues to be a busy route in the Network Rail North West and Central region, carrying both passenger and freight trains, and because of its historic stability issues is monitored closely by Network Rail. Geologically, the site is comprised of soil overlying natural rock, part of the Whitacre Member of the Upper Carboniferous Salop Formation, with the land immediately surrounding the area heavily impacted by the local coal mining industry, prior to the railway being constructed. Having presented problems in the past, this mixture of natural and man-made landscape still poses a risk of instability of the cutting, potentially leading to rock fall or landslides affecting the operational railway and as such Network Rail put out a tender to address the
issue. The scheme was as part of Britain’s Railway Upgrade Plan, and John Murphy and Sons was awarded the contract to design and build the required earthworks and drainage scheme. Ground Investigation (GI) works at the site were undertaken by Central Alliance back in 2015 and consisted of four boreholes being drilled on the crest of the cutting and five trial pits on the cutting slope. Data obtained was used by JBA Consulting to design new drainage systems and a geotechnical stabilisation solution, with a specified 120-year design life, to address the instability of the cutting across its full 530m length. Influencing the design, the cutting itself tapers from flat surround ground furthest from the tunnel portal, down to over 20m deep at the entrance to the tunnel, with the whole cutting heavily vegetated including mature trees. The slope angle steadily increases with the depth of the cutting, from low angled soil slope to a 60-degree steep mixed soil and rock slope at the tunnel portal. For approximately 300m of the shallow end of the cutting, a drainage upgrade was specified, which consisted of
clearing existing crest drainage and refurbishing the existing rock blanket slope drainage ribs. A new mid slope drain was also specified along the North side of the cutting, and the crest drainage on the South side of the cutting was upgrade and extended. The steeper section of cutting, adjacent to the portal and totalling 230m in length, posed a higher risk of ground instability than could be addressed with drainage measures alone. The solution was to split this section into two zones, based on the geology; Zone 1 being the very steepest and deepest part of the cutting, with the lower half of the cutting here consisting of weathered soil slope and the upper half consisting of soil overlaying partially exposed bands of competent siltstone and mudstone. Zone 2 consisted of soil slope only, with no competent rock present. In the soil slope areas 6m length R32 self-drilling hollow bar soil nails were specified and where rock was anticipated to be encountered, 3m length 28mm solid bar rock bolts were specified. In total over 2200 soil nails and rock bolts were specified, with 8500m2 of erosion matting and high tensile steel mesh facing specified over the whole Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas. J Murphy and Sons undertook selfdelivery of the drainage element of the scheme but approached CAN Geotechnical to sub-contract the Geotechnical component. CAN Geotechnical determined that longreach 360 excavators fitted with drill masts would be the most efficient way to undertake the drilling on the upper slopes, however the depth of the cutting would require the use of on-slope drill rigs to drill on the mid and lower slope where the long reach plant could not reach. The very bottom row of soil nails at the base of the cutting were also too close to the track itself to safely drill with the line open and CAN Geotechnical
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 27
SAFE BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES drainage. CAN Geotechnical’s work elements commenced in late March 2019, beginning with vegetation clearance and the installation of the upper rows of soil nails and rock bolts using long reach plant. The scheme design specified soil nails or rock bolts based on visual inspection of the cutting only, with no detailed information available to confirm the underground conditions. Suitability testing was used to confirm the exact areas where the cutting transitions from soil to rock.
determined that they would need to be drilled using RRV mounted drill masts during possession. Safety was obviously paramount throughout the project, so in order to allow safe working of the onslope drill rigs with the line open to traffic, CAN Geotechnical proposed installing a bespoke lightweight temporary catch fence. Rock fall trajectory analysis was carried out and informed a temporary works design, requiring a 1.5m height fence. This would be attached to the RRV drilled lower row of permanent soil nails using angled adapters, creating a 1.5m catch fence running along the base of the cutting to protect the line from any material dislodged by the slope drill rigs. However, with the vertical spacing between each row of soil nails in the initial design being less than 1m, there would be insufficient space above the catch fence to fit a slope mounted drill above it to drill row 2. This would therefore require the bottom 2 rows of soil nails to be drilled during possession, with a catch fence fitted to row 1 soil nails allowing row 3 to be drilled with slope mounted drill rigs. As a busy rail route, possession opportunities were limited to a short working window on each Saturday night, with a substantial amount of the de-vegetation work and tree felling also needing to be carried out
during these periods. To enhance the progress CAN Geotechnical proposed a number of possible adjustments to the soil nailing design layout in order to minimise the quantity of soil nails that would need to be drilled during possession. The solution adopted by the scheme designer was to increase the vertical spacing between the bottom row of soil nails and row 2 to 1.75m and at the same time steepen the installation angle of row 2 soil nails, with a corresponding reduction in the vertical and horizontal spacing between soil nails from row 2 upwards to offset the reduced number of soil nails at the very base of the slope. This adjustment to the soil nailing design layout allowed overall soil nail quantities to remain the same, but the bottom row only to be drilled during the limited possessions available. With the temporary catch fence installed secured to row 1 this then allowed the remaining soil nails and rock bolts including row 2 to be drilled during normal daytime working with the line open. This halved the requirement for RRV drilling within possession, significantly decreasing costs and programme duration. John Murphy and Sons mobilised to site in early March 2019 to carry out enabling works and undertake renewal and upgrade of the
In total 20 suitability rock bolts and soil nails were installed early in the site works phase spread over site and pull out testing undertaken. A high proportion of these were sited on the assumed border between soil and competent rock, enabling review of the drill logs and results of pull-out testing by the scheme designer. This allowed the exact determination of where soil nails and rock bolts should be installed, according to known conditions on site. A complex programme was devised for the Geotechnical works, where the short working window on Saturday nights would be utilised to focus on one of 10 sub sections of Zone 1 & 2 at a time. In each section vegetation clearance, tree felling, RRV drilling soil nails and installation of the temporary catch fence would be undertaken, which created a safe, clear working area for midweek works to commence, with subsequent areas opened in turn on each Saturday night possession. The possession works were completed ahead of programme, with less possessions required overall than programmed. This allowed the main midweek works to progress as planned, and with up to 6 drill rigs working at a time the geotechnical element of the scheme has progressed well, with the drainage works being undertaken concurrently. CAN Geotechnical’s work on the site was completed at the end of August 2019, with J Murphy and Sons’ elements completed the end of September 2019.
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SAFE BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES
ECOLIGHTING CHOSEN BY TOP LOGISTICS PROVIDER AS BEST LED SOLUTION FOR NEW WAREHOUSE
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 29
SAFE BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES Ecolighting UK has recently been specified for LED lighting at the 164,000 sqft Minworth Central warehouse in Minworth near Birmingham for client Rico Logistics. Rico Logistics provides the ultimate in smart and cost-effective logistics solutions throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe and offers a totally integrated logistics solution. Rico has been delivering a multi-faceted suite of solutions from same day courier services to Break/Fix technical repair and replace solutions and warehousing and distribution management to businesses for more than 25 years. As part of its continued growth, Rico moved from its previous 26,000 sqft premises to the larger Minworth Central distribution building, and Ecolighting was chosen for its reduced costs against competitor prices and the efficacy of its fittings to replace the lighting in place. The logistics giant needed efficient lighting for its rear transfer aisle, 13 picking aisles and goods in/out area and chose Ecolighting’s Pegasus LED high bay and Altos emergency LED lighting following a recommendation from specialist space saving warehouse truck manufacturer Flexitruck. The warehouse was assessed by Ecolighting and 16 240W 120 degree beam angle, 72 180W 30 degree beam angle, seven 160W 40 degree beam angle and six 180W 40 degree beam angle Pegasus LEDs and 37 Altos emergency lighting luminaires were chosen as the best solution. Keith Whitehead, Head of Strategic Development at Rico Group, commented, “I would happily recommend Ecolighting to anyone looking to update their lighting. They reduced the amount of luminaires needed by 50% over other quotes specified and were 20% cheaper than their competitors.” He continued, “The lighting has PIR sensors and further intelligence to check if the lighting level is sufficient and therefore won’t activate the lamps even though the PIR is triggered. The lamps automatically adjust every 10,000 hours (depending on use) and increase output to adapt to the degradation in the lamp over its lifetime. An additional benefit is that the system comes with a 10-year warranty, which is double that of all other suppliers.” “We look forward to seeing how the lighting looks when all the racking is in place so we can really judge its effectiveness. We also have a guarantee from Ecolighting that if the necessary lux levels aren’t met once the
warehouse is filled they will make adjustments free of charge, which is another benefit.” Ecolighting’s Pegasus uses an Osram driver and top quality Osram LEDs giving 166 lumens per watt and up to 80% energy saving in installations. At Rico, this will also result in an annual saving of more than £19,600 in replacement lamps, climate change levy reductions, maintenance and carbon credits. Ecolighting’s compact Pegasus luminaire is a top specification LED High Bay luminaire and one of the company’s most popular light fittings. Encased in a robust yet lightweight and stylish aluminium body, the sealed dustproof construction prevents access from insects and makes for easy cleaning. The Pegasus High Bay luminaire is used by Ecolighting frequently for a wide range of applications from industrial, warehouses, cold stores and manufacturing to sports halls and retail stores. The Altos emergency luminaire from Ecolighting is part of the company’s flagship LED high bay lighting solutions designed for use in mezzanines, warehouses, in manufacturing, freezers/chillers and areas with high ceilings. Unlike many other lighting companies, Ecolighting has its own team of lighting and electrical installation engineers as well as carrying out the lighting scheme design with Relux software in the early stages of client lighting projects. The company also manufactures its luminaires in the UK and uses UK-sourced Osram control gear and LED chips. All of this means that the company has much better control than many and can present better value for money to clients. The company is also a Carbon Trust Accredited Supplier, assessed to BSEN ISO 9001:2015 and are members of the Lighting Industry Association. As one of the UK leaders in LED lighting solutions to commerce and industry, Ecolighting has worked with many other big name companies such as Amazon, Bibby Distribution, Kuehne Nagel, Debenhams, Carlsberg, Culina, Cadbury and Great Bear. Further information on energy saving LED lighting schemes is available from Ecolighting on 01455 552511, by emailing enquiries@ecolightinguk.com or by visiting the company’s website at www.ecolightinguk.com
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 31
SAFE BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES
32 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
More than half
of companies unaware of hidden risks with prescription safety eyewear UK safety experts urge businesses to make sure employees’ sight is adequately protected An early survey conducted by Arco, the UK’s leading health and safety expert, has found 6 in 11 companies were providing inadequate prescription safety eyewear to their employees, despite conducting risk assessments and believing they had issued the correct specification. Most companies are confident they have a robust process in place to provide safety eyewear that will protect employees and comply with safety regulations. Many health & safety professionals believe that they have done the right thing, and have specified the appropriate rated safety eyewear for the hazards in their environment. However, they mistakenly believe that a correct specification leads to the right products being purchased and supplied to employees. They are unaware that there may be flaws and hidden vulnerabilities in their purchasing processes, which means that employees end up wearing prescription safety eyewear that has an inadequate level of protection, and would not protect their eyes from impacts. Arco identified four major risks in the procurement process that can lead to non-compliance and to companies providing inappropriate eyewear that puts people’s eyesight at risk.
Alex Turgoose, Product & Procurement Manager at Arco, said, “To keep people safe at work, it is critical that those who wear prescription safety eyewear are being given the same level of protection as those who are working alongside them in non-prescription safety eyewear. It is deeply concerning that this is not the case and to see the extent of the problem. Having employees wearing an incorrect specification can have an overwhelming impact on business and employees in the unfortunate event of an accident.”
the right eye protection could lessen the severity or even prevent 90% of eye injury accidents
Over 2,000 people each year in the UK suffer eye injuries in the workplace, with 10%-20% of those injured experiencing temporary or permanent vision loss. However, the right eye protection could lessen the severity or even prevent 90% of eye injury accidents. With one in three employees needing prescription safety eyewear, increasing to one in two with an aging workforce, it is critical that the correct safety eyewear is specified. The financial and business risks of non-compliance can be devastating. Managers are ultimately responsible for their employees’ safety and can be held legally accountable for accidents and injuries. In addition, new sentencing guidelines introduced in 2016 mean fines can now be issued based on the risk of potential harm to employees, long before an actual accident occurs. As well as monetary impact, accidents also cause reputational damage, disruption of work and negative employee morale.
Arco has extensive experience across the safety eyewear industry and partners with recognised specialist suppliers, who can offer technical support and give companies and employees the confidence that they are getting the best possible advice, products and cost efficiencies from their safety partner. To check the level of risk in your business or for more information on how you can make sure to provide adequate prescription safety eyewear, please visit https://campaigns.arco.co.uk/blindinglyobvious / https://campaigns.arcosafety.ie/blindinglyobvious
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 33
WHY LEDS SHOULD BE REPLACING FLUORESCENTS IN BUSINESSES With businesses now working harder than ever before to improve their energy efficiency and help tackle climate change, it’s becominvg harder to justify keeping traditional fluorescent and incandescent lighting in buildings when LEDs are proving their worth every day. However, for many, the initial upgrade to LEDs can be a daunting prospect, mainly due to the higher upfront costs, disruption and installation. But the incentive to install energy-saving LED lighting has never been greater, with companies being able in some cases to potentially gain a discount of 40% of the total installation cost, as well as reaping forward energy savings of up to 80%, say lighting experts EcolightingUK. LED luminaires are designed to replace fluorescent fittings and are easier to install than many people might expect. The initial extra costs are often paid for in less than three years in energy savings and they come with many benefits from lifespan through to technology and helping the environment. Fluorescent lighting has a shorter lifespan than LEDs, so much so in fact that the difference is as high as 15,000 hours. The main difference is measured in the quality of light over time as LEDs maintain their brightness throughout their life unlike fluorescents that suffer lumen depreciation and flicker or buzz as they begin to fail. LEDs are also much better for the environment as customers make energy savings in excess of 70% over fluorescent lighting, and they need virtually no The initial upgrade to LEDs can be a daunting prospect for many, mainly due to the higher upfront costs, disruption and installation. But the incentive to install energy-saving LED lighting has never been greater, with companies being able to potentially gain a discount of 40% of the total installation cost, as well as forward energy savings of up to 80%, say lighting experts EcolightingUK.
maintenance and are free of harmful chemicals like mercury, making them safer to use. Their energy efficiency is in part down to their use of directional light, as the design angles the light downwards. Fluorescents project light in lots of different directions including towards the ceiling, meaning they are wasting the light. LEDs are popular in offices, industrial and commercial properties, and aside from the financial and environmental factors, the most obvious and instant benefit of LED lighting is the superior light quality that the new technology generates. The result of a lighter and brighter working environment is improved visibility and enhanced workplace safety for employees, and results have shown that following installations workforces are delighted with the improvements in their working environments. Further information on energy saving LED lighting schemes is available from Ecolighting on 01455 552511, by emailing enquiries@ecolightinguk.com or by visiting the company’s website at www.ecolightinguk.com
34 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
Tilsatec launch ultra-lightweight 18 gauge cut level D range Experience the ultimate in hand protection. An ultra-lightweight 18 gauge glove with incredible fingertip touch sensitivity and tactility. Combined with level D cut resistance to EN388: 2016, this is the first in a new family designed specifically for this category.
No longer do you have to choose between protection and dexterity, the 58-41 range delivers the perfect balance of performance and comfort allowing the most delicate handling and assembly operations to be carried out with ease. With options of a robust polyurethane palm coating which handles light oil well or the foam flex nitrile palm coating which offers 360 degrees breathability and superb grip, the 58-41 is designed to suit industries such as aerospace, light metal fabrication, final fix and light assembly. Tilsatec is a UK manufacturer with a long history in developing technical yarns for PPE, specialising in cut resistant hand and arm protection able to engineer high levels of performance and mechanical protection into the product range. For more information on the 58-41 range visit: tilsatec.com/gb/products/58-4120-cut-d-nitrile-foamflex-glove
No longer do you have to choose between protection and dexterity
Experience the ultimate in hand protection of an ultra-lightweight 18 gauge glove made using Rhino Yarn™ technology to deliver incredible touch sensitivity and tactility, level D cut protection to EN388: 2016 and a grip palm coating to suit.
Tilsatec | +44 (0)1924 375742 | info@tilsatec.com | www.tilsatec.com TILSATEC LIMITED, Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND, ENGLAND
36 HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE
UK’s best on Road to Shanghai Skilled elite to help transform technical education training WorldSkills UK, the education and skills charity, today (8 January 2020) named the 137 apprentices and students who will join its talent programme for the ‘skills olympics’ which will next be held in Shanghai, China in 2021. Alongside the announcement, the charity which manages the UK’s entry into the ‘skills olympics’, known officially as WorldSkills, set out its ambition over the next decade to use its ongoing participation in this global event to bring back innovation from other leading world economies to the UK to help create a world-class skill system to support economic growth, productivity and competitiveness. Its goal is to mainstream the excellence in teaching, training and assessment to be received by the young people in the WorldSkills UK elite squad announced today, so more and more young people all across the UK can also benefit from world-class training methods. Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “As someone whose job is to be an ambassador for this country and the fantastic range of skills and innovation our young people can offer, I’m excited to see another talented group of young people preparing to showcase their skills on the global stage. “This government is levelling up skills and opportunity across Britain – either through investment in further education and training, the creation of new T Levels which will be taught from this September or working hand in hand with industry to create more high-quality apprenticeships. That work means the future can only get brighter and I look forward to championing the talent and skills of our young people for many years to come.” WorldSkills has a global reach with over 80 countries and regions participating in the event, and this provides WorldSkills UK with unique access to skills innovation from around the world. Through its Productivity Lab programme, WorldSkills UK announced it is seeking to work with partners in education, training and business to use this insight to mainstream global best practice to raise standards in everyday training to world-class levels. It believes this focus on excellence will inspire more young people, from all backgrounds, to take up apprenticeships and technical education as a prestige route to success for them and their employers. Dr Neil Bentley-Gockmann OBE, Chief Executive,
WorldSkills UK said: “It is fantastic to see such a strong squad of young people all of whom are aiming to represent the UK on the world stage in Shanghai. “They will be flying the flag for the UK, demonstrating to the rest of the world that we are developing the high quality skills needed to help us to trade internationally and attract inward investment across all of the UK to creating and maintain jobs. Now more than ever, we need to invest in excellence in training for the next generation if we are to remain competitive globally and help create a thriving economy. “Congratulations to all of those on the WorldSkills UK Talent Programme, they really are the high flyers of their generation and should help inspire young people and parents everywhere – turning vocational snobbery on its head – showing that choosing a technical career is a clear route to success in work and life.” The apprentices and students on the WorldSkills UK Talent Programme will now spend the next 18 months in training. This is fitted around their study and employment commitments before they face the ultimate selection test next year to secure a place in the team that will represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2021.
HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE 37
MHM partners with MIPV
Solar energy for generators, lighting, modular buildings, welfare facilities and site security applications In 2005 the Health and Safety Executive found that each year more than two hundred construction workers die from cancers caused by exposure to diesel fumes. This figure hasn’t yet been updated, even though much more has since been discovered about diesel’s toxic consequences. The London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory discovered that construction sites are responsible for approximately 7.5% of damaging nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, 8% of large particle emissions (PM10) and 14.5% of emissions of the most dangerous fine particles (PM2.5). While a small amount of this (about 1%) is dust from site activities like demolition, most comes from the extensive use of diesel powered machinery such as generators, lighting and excavators etc. Given these facts, it should be no surprise that progressive producers of construction equipment are seeking new ways to power their machinery. One major supplier to the UK equipment hire industry, MHM, is already at the forefront in the use of renewables and non-fossil fuels. However, to continue their advance into using environmentally acceptable power, MHM has entered into a partnership with MIPV, a South Wales based manufacturer of innovative thin-film solar panels. MIPV is a division of the BIPV Group. The company was established in April 2015, following five years of collaborative research between Tata Steel LCRI (Low Carbon Research Institute) and Swansea University with support from the Welsh government. This exclusive partnership is set to develop bespoke solutions to meet the sustainable energy needs of mobile welfare, site lighting and temporary security applications, using the unique and flexible thin film solar PV technology to generate the required power. In 2020, MHM will become the global distributor for MIPV’s renewable solar thin-film CIGS technology in all of these market sectors. Using this flexible thin-film technology, solar in mobile applications is now set to become a reality. Commenting on this partnership, MHM Managing Director, Mat Llewellyn said, “Our aim is to limit and possibly eliminate the use of diesel entirely by
concentrating on renewables, hybrid and battery powered systems. We believe that MIPV has made exactly the right product for the markets we supply.” “Our commitment to the application of renewables is steadfast. We anticipate that the use of MIPV thin-film panels will help us achieve our ultimate goal of zero carbon efficiency,” added Mat. MHM supplies their range of equipment throughout the UK and Ireland via its’ nationwide three depot network. The MHM head office is based in Port Talbot, South Wales. The company supplies power generation, solar-hybrid-generators, fuel storage, lighting towers, engine driven welders and product related accessories to the UK and Irish rental markets, for both hire and purchase. For further information vist: www.mhmplant.com
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New research: Is workplace noise making men less tolerant? Today, UK acoustics specialist Oscar Acoustics released findings from its research into the effects of noise on men and women in the workplace and found some striking differences between the sexes. Men react dramatically According to our research men are 20% more likely to react to noise in the workplace than women, sometimes dramatically. Some may be surprised to learn that men are twice as likely to ask for a quieter desk, but when scanning down the results, things get a lot more interesting. Men are also four times more likely to leave passive aggressive notes and startlingly six times more likely to resort to violence! These extreme reactions to excessive noise probably explain why 21% of men have poor relationships with their colleagues.
when it comes to concerns being addressed. Is this part of a wider trend where bosses are not listening enough to the workplace concerns of women? Employers need to be aware of how a loud space can affect each individual on the payroll, and make sure everyone’s perceptions and experiences are taken into account. “Failure to do so will have commercial repercussions. A half of men and women polled say that excessive workplace noise is ruining their productivity. Treating everyone equally will ultimately boost your bottom line.”
Women on the other hand seem much calmer as half don’t react at all to loud noises. In fact men are just as likely to snap at co-workers as women are to simply wear headphones to counteract noise.
Key Findings: • Employers are failing to listen equally It appears that attitudes of bosses differs between the sexes. Why are a quarter of men reporting that their employer takes the issue very seriously, whilst less than a tenth of women say this is true? On top of this, only a third of women say their employer has taken action to protect them from noise (by installing insulation, cubicles or even firing offenders), compared to over a half of men. Ben Hancock, managing director of Oscar Acoustics, comments “Seeing how noise affects men and women differently is certainly eye-opening. What’s even more worrying, is the lack of parity between men and women
Men can be significantly more violent; they’re six times as likely as women to get physical with a colleague over noise. They’re also: •
Three times as likely to snap at their boss
•
Four times as likely to leave passive aggressive notes
•
Five times as likely to quit their job
•
21% of men have poor relations with colleagues because of noise
•
Two-thirds of women say their employer has done nothing to protect them from noise. However over a half of men have been shielded against workplace din by their boss.
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“We want construction workers to be aware of the risks associated with the activities they carry out on a daily basis; be conscious of the fact their work may create hazardous dust; and consider how this could affect their health, in some cases irreversibly. We want businesses and their workers to think of the job from start to finish and avoid creating dust or disturbing asbestos by working in different ways. We want to see construction firms encouraging their workers to firstly keep the dust down and wear the right mask and clothing.
“Ultimately, we want construction workers’ lungs to be protected from ill health, so they can go home healthy to their families and enjoy long careers in this important industry.” For more information on the programme of inspections and to download our free #DustBuster selfie cards visit: https://bit.ly/2QWLYib and follow the campaign on Twitter at @H_S_E, on Facebook @hsegovuk and @SaferSites. You can also join the conversation at #WorkRight
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VIVALDA GROUP GOES ‘PLATINUM’ UK’s largest independent cladding supplier reaches 20 year landmark While most businesses would be happy to celebrate their 20 year anniversary with a few crisps and a glass of fizz in reception, Vivalda Group has pulled out all the stops – hiring a full-scale funfair to mark the milestone.
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Inviting more than 150 guests to its national headquarters in Birmingham to mark the occasion, Vivalda staged a construction themed party involving dodgem cars, waltzers, graffiti artists and a range of traditional fairground stalls. The event was supported by brands such as Equitone, Plastestrip, Nvelope Rockpanel and Trespa and also included a BBQ (manned by Vivalda directors no less!), food trucks and even a Las Vegas-style stage. The day ended with an award ceremony highlighting the achievements of Vivalda staff across its nationwide network of 11 locations. Prizes were awarded for longstanding service, most boards cuts, most invoices processed and deliveries undertaken. Providing a personal address to the audience, company chairman and founder Peter Johnson weas keen to point out the contribution made by people to the business. He also made special mention of Glasgow-based MSP, the cladding manufacturer / powder coating specialist which joined the Vivalda Group in 2019. He also gave an insight into how the cladding sector had changed over the past 20 years. “Vivalda has always prided itself on its culture as an inclusive employer, harnessing the skills and talents of everyone, irrespective of their sex, nationality or culture. We want everyone to feel safe and empowered to make their contribution to the business,” said Johnson. “There’s no room here for outdated employment practices here. We’re a dynamic business with an eye to the future. We can see the next ten years will be full
of growth potential – especially in the areas of offsite fabrication, digital construction and just-in-time delivery. This will all take huge amounts of investment in new technologies, systems and skills – and we’re already on that journey with our recent acquisition of new CNC cutting machines and our low-emission delivery fleet.” Vivalda Group is remarkable within the UK cladding sector, given its longevity and consistent investment into its people and fabrication capabilities. David Fraser, business unit manager at fixings supplier Nvelope, said: “As Vivalda has grown over the last two decades, our business has kept pace to ensure we continue to investment in our partnership. Delivering successful projects in construction is all about trust and cooperation – and we certainly have that with the guys at VivaIda.” In a similar vein, Jayne Arkell, UK country manager at Equitone, said: “Our fibre cement cladding is unique and needs to be handled and fabricated by experts. That’s why Vivalda is one of just a handful of businesses we trust with our products. Here’s to another 20 years of success!”. Mark Henderson of Plastestrip added: “I’ve known Peter Johnson and Ben Jayes for over 20 years. What they’ve achieved over that time is remarkable and they should be rightly proud of their business.” Comprising brands including Vivalda, Pura Facades, BBS and MSP (Scotland), Vivalda Group employs 160 people and has an annual turnover of approximately £40m.
www.durable-uk.com