Top performasnce from Evac+Chair At the Birmingham Hippodrome
Birmingham Hippodrome is replacing all its old emergency evacuation chairs with Evac+Chairs to improve ease of handling and evacuation. With an auditorium seating 1,843 people the Hippodrome needs the Evac+Chairs not just to safely evacuate the mobility impaired in the event of a fire, but for removing members of the audience should they be taken ill. The Evac+Chair slimline airline model, which is narrow enough to push between rows, was chosen for the dress circle, and the standard model was selected for the stalls. The Hippodrome’s customer services manager David Eden said, “ We saw the Evac+Chair at the Birmingham Rep and were very impressed with how easy it is to operate in comparison with our existing chairs which are cumbersome and need 2 to 4 people to lift them. The Evac+Chair glides down steps and can be operated effortlessly by one person which is fantastic from a manual handling point of view.” Manufactured in the UK, to exacting, market leading standards, the Evac+Chair enables a single user to evacuate a person of up to 150kg quickly and easily using continuous belts to provide controlled descent over stair nosings in proportion to passenger weight. Evac+Chair International also provided training to Birmingham Hippodrome, which allowed ‘key trained’ Hippodrome staff to internally train other staff to operate the chairs, with evacuation drills taking place every 6 weeks. “The after-sales service support we have received from the company has been excellent and extremely comprehensive, which is just as important as product quality,” added Mr Eden. The company also offer nationwide on-site servicing of the chairs and have just introduced a low-cost rental and service package on the chairs to allow those with budgetary constraints to comply instantly with regulations. Further information is available from Evac+Chair International Ltd, Paraid House, Weston Lane, Birmingham, B11 3RS, tel 0121 706 6744, email: info@evacchair.co.uk or by visiting the company’s website at www.evacchair.co.uk Evac+Chair International Ltd on 0121 706 6744, email: info@evacchair.co.uk
Top quality draught proofing reduces heating costs
By Gillian AIlder, Director, Draught Proofing Advisory Association Heat loss through unnecessary draughts can be very expensive in terms of fuel wastage. However, cost-effective top quality draught-proofing of windows and external doors provides worthwhile energy saving, plus increased comfort. To gain maximum benefit heating must be addressed in conjunction with draught proofing. Airtight buildings consume less energy and building maintenance and life cycle costs can be lower, as they are less susceptible to internal moisture deterioration. Less heat is lost at entrance points, and costs for space heating and associated plant are lower. Tests carried out by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) revealed that advanced draught proofing methods are shown to be one of the most profitable ways of reducing heating costs in nondomestic buildings, with payback on investment as low as 1.2 years, with reduction in heating bills of 22%. In respect of draughtproofing, before the 2002 Building Regulations, Part L only applied to new build and did not include existing buildings or change of use. The Regulations now include substantially improving fabric insulation standards for solid elements and glazing and introduce new efficiency requirements for air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation systems for light fittings in both non-domestic and domestic buildings; the introduction of requirements for testing building air tightness and the commissioning of building compliance; registering the energy performance of buildings in use by actual consumers and making consumption data publicly available for comparison against benchmarks. Since draught proofing was included in the Building Regulations, many specifiers are implementing it in their energy efficiency programmes to bring buildings in line with current new build standards. Indeed Building Regulations are set to increase in April 2006 and will include refurbishment. A further review in 2012 is anticipated. The draughtproofing of windows and external doors will undoubtedly play a significant role in meeting the Part L 2 (non domestic buildings) criteria for refurbishment. Whilst energy efficiency in relation to climate change is vital, it is important for industry and commerce to recognise the need to care for its staff and ensure a better working environment. This is all part of corporate social responsibility. There is often a misconception that installing carbon saving measures means higher costs. This is certainly not the case with cost effective draughtproofing with top quality materials approved to British Standards. In the overall energy efficiency strategy the draught proofing of windows and external doors is seen as a key elements in achieving lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions. This in turn may well result in the need for smaller boilers and fewer radiators to maintain the required temperature. The process is now recognised as an essential part of energy efficient design if optimum performance of other energy efficiency measures is to be achieved. It is a simple and economical method of reducing energy loss and controlling air flow, with the added benefit of greatly increasing the comfort levels of the occupants. The Draught Proofing Advisory Association, recognised by Government as the national trade association for this industry, contends that top quality draught proofing should become a basic requirement for all retrofit energy efficiency work to bring all types of building in line with current new build standards. Whilst the Government is constantly tightening Building Regulations for new properties with a view to reducing the UK's reliance on fossil fuel resources, research has found that these provisions have improved energy efficiency but are often compromised by poor building envelope airtightness. For example, in office buildings tested by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) it was found that up to 30% of the heating/cooling energy was being lost through uncontrolled infiltration leading to draughts, discomfort and poor energy efficiency. In addition, moisture-laden air entering the building structure has serious detrimental affects on the building fabric. Once draughts are eliminated, constant climates can be provided: draught proofing keeps the integrity of air conditioned buildings. Airtightness is environmental 'best practice' and demonstrates a company's commitment to conserving energy and reducing CO2 emissions. ln addition to excluding draughts and extremes of weather, draught proofing products keep out dirt, dust and light, together with noise penetration. By reducing airflow, weatherseals can cut down general traffic noise through street facing doors and windows. Additionally sound levels in offices near noisy production lines or factory units can be reduced. Draught proofing products credited with BS 7386 will also control and contain hazardous airborne substances or pollution. Brush seals, in particular, can prevent the ingress of foreign bodies. In an effort to crack down on pollution, tough EU wide targets for industry to cut carbon dioxide emission-s into the atmosphere by 2010 are to be introduced. To provide specifiers with a simple reference to properties, applications and standards of individual products recognised by the Association and to aid selection, a Register of Approved Products has been produced by the Association. This is the first register to list quality draught proofing products suited to the commercial industrial and architectural markets. This independent document offers considerable assistance to architects and designers, builders and others preparing specifications which incorporate draught proofing products. The DPAA has now established a register of installers with the skills to draught-proof commercial and industrial premises. They have agreed to ensure that they only use appropriately skilled and trained staff to carry out any commercial or industrial draught proofing project accepted by them, to the specification. This follows the recent introduction of a 20-year guarantee by manufacturer members of the Draught Proofing Advisory Association. This covers only products made or supplied by members to British Standard. These moves are made to help ensure quality products are installed in the commercial field by experienced installers. Manufacturer members of the Draught Proofing Advisory Association may be approached for in-depth advice on window and door performance and how this can be affected: and on appropriate draught proofing for certain locations. Their laboratories are dedicated to testing windows and doors to the British Standard, often exceeding basic performance standards. Literature on draught proofing applications, and a list of commercial contractors is readily available from the Draught Proofing Advisory Association,.
Top safety accreditation for Coolmation service
Water chiller service and maintenance specialist, Coolmation Service Ltd, a Coolmation Group Company, has joined a leading edge scheme, designed to help industry improve its safety record. The company has recently been awarded accreditation from SAFEcontractor, a programme which recognises high standards of health and safety practice amongst UK contractors. Martin Poyner, service director of Coolmation, explains "SAFEcontractor accreditation is an important endorsement for our business. It will help us win new contracts and ensure that our commitment to the highest standards of safety will be viewed positively by insurers when the company liability policy is due for renewal." SAFEcontractor is operated by international safety, health and environmental risk management specialists, the National Britannia Group. The system is applicable to most sectors although it is particularly relevant to food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure sectors, all of which are big users of contract services. James Ostler, managing director of Information Service at National Britannia said, "Major organisations can no longer run the risk of employing contractors who do not have proven sound health and safety policies. More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Coolmation Service has done." Under the SAFEcontractor system businesses undergo a vetting process that examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database which is accessible to registered users via www.safecontractor.com
Top Safety Accreditation for Saville
Saville Audio Visual is one of the latest successful companies to join a leading edge scheme, designed to help industry improve its safety record. The firm has received accreditation from SAFEcontractor, a programme which recognises very high standards of health and safety practice amongst UK contractors. With a nationwide network of regional centres, Saville is the UK's largest professional audio visual business. The company supplies audio visual and videoconferencing equipment and services to corporate clients, universities, hospitals, local authorities and government departments including the Ministry of Defence. Saville's application for SAFEcontractor accreditation was driven by the need for a uniform standard across the business. Managing director John Sills said: "Our systems teams have an enormous responsibility for safety, from design and manufacturing stage through to the completion of every installation. Users include teachers and children in schools, managers and executives at all levels and members of all the armed forces. We believe SAFEcontractor accreditation gives them confidence that our safety standards are strict and consistent". SAFEcontractor accreditation is expected to enhance the company's ability to attract new contracts and its commitment to safety will be viewed positively by its insurers when the company liability policy is up for renewal is operated by risk management specialists, the National Britannia Group. The system is applicable to most sectors although it is particularly relevant to the food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure sectors, all of which are big users of contract services. Over eighty major nationwide businesses have signed up to use the scheme when selecting contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance, refurbishment or electrical and mechanical work.
Top safety award for Dalkia
Excellent safety management and an outstanding safety record have won Dalkia the highly prestigious British Safety Council National Safety Award - presented to the acclaim of almost 1,000 guests recently at the Grosvenor House Hotel.
Award winners from UK and international public and private sector organisations faced a gruelling test to satisfy the judging panels of safety experts. To achieve the Award, Dalkia had to demonstrate lower than average accident rates, stringent safety policies and board level commitment to health and safety. Dalkia also had to show significant health and safety advances.
David Ballard, Director General of the British Safety Council, said: “The National Safety Awards highlights organisations that are striving for best practice in health and safety. They are a mark of a proven and significant achievement in workplace safety standards.”
Minister of State for Work and Pensions Nick Brown added that: “Only by working together in partnership with the British Safety Council, other stakeholders, employers and employees will we be able to achieve our goals for health and safety and reduce the burden on employers and employees and in turn cut the 33 million working days currently lost through work-related ill-health and injury.”
Top support services company wins contract for Walkers Stadium
Building on the success of their Project Five-Star programme that recognises the need to recreate the standards delivered by the housekeeping teams at prestigious five-star hotels, Leisure Support Services has won the support services contract at one of the country’s top sporting venues, Leicester City’s Walkers Stadium.
Announcing the contract win, Peter Watts, Leisure Support Services managing director said, “This win follows closely on the heels of our Ricoh Arena contract and further consolidates our base in the Midlands. I am pleased that our approach to delivering services in the sport and leisure market is attracting interest and that cleaning at sports stadia is now being viewed more than ever before as an integral part of the visitor experience.”
The housekeeping team at Walkers Stadium is given training to deliver the customer service levels and meticulous attention to detail expected in today’s sporting environments. The contract also demands a sustainable way of working and part of this means proactively improving the recycling levels of waste generated during events. This will be developed inline with the successful programme that Leisure Support Services currently employs at other UK venues including the Brit Oval where over 50% of waste generated at events is recycled.
The Walkers Stadium site contains: two ground floor exhibition halls, ten function suites, 44 meeting rooms, an a la carte restaurant, a popular sports bar and comprehensive match-day facilities. Leisure Support Services maintains the highest standards on a year round basis whilst also managing the peaks and troughs of the event schedule, which includes: football matches, local conferences, seminars, exhibitions and corporate events.
Peter Watts concludes: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Leicester City Football Club and through the development of our staff we will bring real benefits to the club not only in terms of maintaining high standards but also contributing towards improved visitor experience and repeat bookings for corporate events.”
Top venue aims to attract VIP events with security as a key selling point
One of the UK's leading event venues, Manchester's G-MEX & MICC (Manchester International Convention Centre) has modernised its CCTV system as part of plans to attract a wider range of prestigious events. G-MEX/MICC, which will be hosting the annual Labour Party Conference this autumn, has been equipped with two of the new-generation Kollector PRO digital video recorders from Vicon. The system, installed by Con-Tec Solutions Ltd , also comprises 23 dome cameras, a Vicon keypad and the powerful ViconNet software package. "This equipment really puts us at the cutting edge and gives us first class CCTV coverage throughout venue," says Security Manager Mike Williams. The Surveyor VFT dome cameras have been sited to protect all doors at the venue. The models used include the SVFT day/night model which features variable-speed drive, environmental housing and 23X high-resolution camera/lens as well as the Roughneck Impact-Resistant range. They have been added to a network of cameras which gives full coverage of internal and external key points and are already proving highly effective. "We have been able to deal with a number of incidents thanks to the clear images that we are getting," says Mr Williams. "In one recent case we identified two individuals who tried to steal goods from an exhibitor at one of our shows. The clarity of our CCTV evidence led to them being quickly arrested." The G-MEX team is particularly impressed with the playback and video management features offered by the Kollector PRO DVR and ViconNet software. ViconNet allows system managers to view images from any authorised PC workstation at the centre. They can also log on from a PC at a remote location should that be necessary. ViconNet features geographical mapping and control and an active 4-output analogue matrix. The result is a total system control station allowing users to view, control and configure any ViconNet DVR or IP device on the network. Con-Tec has also installed a new Vicon flat screen monitor in the main reception area at G-MEX, plus the latest Vicon slimline keypad with joystick. With one of the most advanced CCTV systems now in place ahead of the Labour Party conference, G-MEX management are aiming to attract more high profile events to Manchester as a result. "Our policy is to have the most up-to-date security technology available because our customers regard this as a very important factor when choosing their venues," adds Mr Williams.
Toprail furnishing system provides vital flexibility to Jersey's new A&E Department
Toprail Systems Ltd (Shepperton, Middx) has recently supplied its unique Toprail(tm) furnishing system to the refurbished A&E Department at Jersey General Hospital in the Channel Islands. The equipment supplied includes storage, shelving, worktops and cupboards, plus custom-designed lead-lined mobile units that are normally positioned between the department's beds. Toprail was awarded this prestigious contract after the hospital's Project Manager, Mr David Ahier, had visited a similar Toprail installation at Guy's Hospital in London. Mr Ahier says "The staff at Guy's commented favourably on the flexibility and convenience of the Toprail system and the ease with which the various elements can be rearranged or moved as needs change. This is a particularly important feature to us since we may need to increase the capacity of our A&E department very quickly should a major incident occur". Toprail(tm) is a unique horizontal rail that can be secured to almost any type of wall with normal hand tools and once installed can support a wide range of wall furnishing items including shelves, whiteboards, worktops, cupboards, storage systems, display materials and even sinks. The concept was designed specifically for use within the health service and is the only wall furnishing system meeting the requirements of health technical memoranda HTM 62 and HTM 63. The system catalogue now includes more than 250 modular components. Although Toprail offers a professional installation service, the only requirement is that the supporting rail should be fixed horizontally at a given height. All modules hang from this rail, so no other fixing arrangements are required. Detailed drawings and specialist labour are unnecessary. The rail itself is fabricated from anodised aluminium extrusion and supplied in standard 2.4m pre-drilled lengths. A snap on cover provides full protection while concealing the fixing screws. The system offers excellent load-bearing characteristics on walls of almost any construction - even on standard 12.5mm gypsum plasterboard.
Toprail wall furnishings selected for new Operating Theatres
Toprail Systems Ltd has supplied its popular Toprail wall furnishing system for use in new operating theatres at the Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool. The supporting rail itself was installed into several buildings, which were built off-site and supplied by PKL Healthcare (Bishop Cleeve, Cheltenham), a leading specialist in off-site construction for the healthcare sector. Once the pre-manufactured buildings had arrived on site, hospital staff were quickly able to install the various elements of the Toprail system - cupboards, shelves, worktops and storage bins. Toprail is a unique horizontal rail that can be secured to almost any type of wall with normal hand tools and once installed can support a wide range of wall furnishing items including shelves, whiteboards, worktops, cupboards, storage systems, display materials and even sinks. The concept was designed specifically for use within the health service and is the only wall furnishing system meeting the requirements of health technical memoranda HTM 62 and HTM 63. Mr Roger Weaver, Clinical Equipment Manager at AHCH commented "We first saw the Toprail system at a trade exhibition and thought it looked clean, modern and appealing to the eye. We also like its versatility, wide choice of system components and the ease with which it can be installed and adapted". The rail itself is fabricated from anodised aluminium extrusion and supplied in standard 2.4m pre-drilled lengths. A snap on cover provides full protection while concealing the fixing screws. Since the only installation requirement is that the rail should be fixed horizontally at a given height, detailed drawings are unnecessary and no specialist labour is required, thereby keeping installation costs to a minimum. The system also offers excellent load-bearing characteristics, even on standard 12.5mm gypsum plasterboard.
Tork adds five further aluminium washroom dispensers
Away-from-home washroom managers can give their premises a smart new look at a fraction of the cost of stainless steel now that SCA Tissue Europe has dramatically increased its Tork Aluminium dispenser range. The company, which already offers Tork Aluminium dispensers for Tork Interfold towels, Tork Premium liquid soap and Tork Mini Jumbo toilet rolls, has added five further aluminium products. This means washroom managers can now provide their premises with a totally co-ordinated, upmarket look without paying the high price of stainless steel. “Our Tork Aluminium range has been a huge success throughout Europe and there is a real demand for more,” said SCA Tissue Europe’s regional marketing director Brian Parkinson. “The range appeals to all those who care about the look of their washrooms. The dispensers are proving particularly popular in designer hotels, upmarket bars, advertising agencies and solicitors’ offices.” New to the range is a sensor-driven Tork Aluminium Hand Towel Roll dispenser that automatically cuts a length of towel to size when it detects the user’s hands below. Also new is a sensor-driven Tork Aluminium soap dispenser. Other Tork Aluminium innovations are dispensers for Tork Premium folded toilet paper and Tork Facial Tissues, and a new recessed unit that serves as a backplate for Tork Aluminium dispensers. This unit can installed within an existing wall at an adjustable depth where it houses a hand towel dispenser and a bin beneath it. The unit comes with simple mounting instructions for fast installation. “Recessed systems are becoming increasingly popular with architects who want to give their washrooms a clean and minimalist feeling,” said Brian. “Mounting the hand towel dispenser and bin in one unit simplifies cleaning and maintenance while freeing up floor space. And the logical construction of the unit shows the user where to dispose of hand towels after use.” The first wave of Tork Aluminium dispensers was launched last year as an alternative to stainless steel washroom dispensers. Tork Aluminium dispensers typically offer savings of around 30-40 per cent over the cost of stainless steel alternatives. Besides their high cost, stainless steel dispensers also have other disadvantages. They are heavy to transport and subject to fingermarks; they can also be hard to clean and their internal workings tend to contain sharp edges where dirt can collect. The internal mechanisms of Tork Aluminium dispensers are made from plastic which eliminates sharp edges and reduces the weight of the unit. Aluminium is also resistant to fingermarks and can be cleaned using any detergent. “By extending the Tork Aluminium range we are showing our commitment to providing a total offer,” said Brian. “We really want to combine hygiene and luxury and with Tork Aluminium dispensers we are doing just that in a highly practical way, since the range offers all the functional advantages of Tork in a smart, upmarket dispenser.”
Tork Aluminium dispensers on The Royal Yacht Britannia
Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe has just secured a prestigious deal to equip the world-famous Royal Yacht Britannia with Tork Aluminium dispensers. All nine washrooms on board have been fitted with Tork Aluminium dispensers for interfold hand towels, mini jumbo toilet rolls and liquid soap. Visitor experience Manager at The Royal Yacht Britannia Robert Gill said the dispensers were chosen for their smart, upmarket appearance and their low maintenance. “Tork Aluminium dispensers are a lot easier to keep clean than stainless steel, so this is good news for our housekeepers,” he said. “We also like the fact that there is a mini jumbo roll dispenser in the Tork range.” Tork Aluminium dispensers are resistant to fingermarks and can be cleaned using any detergent. This gives them a huge advantage over stainless steel dispensers which can be hard to clean and are subject to fingermarks. Tork Aluminium dispensers typically cost between 30 and 40 per cent less than stainless steel alternatives. They are more lightweight for easy transport and their internal workings are made from plastic which means there are no sharp edges inside where dirt can collect. The Royal Yacht Britannia contract was won for SCA through distributors the Guthrie Group. Washrooms on board the yacht are equipped with Tork Aluminium dispensers containing premium quality Tork refills. These are soft, high quality Tork Premium Mini Jumbo Rolls; Tork Premium Luxury liquid soap, and Tork Premium Extra Soft Interfold hand towels. These have a distinctive lilac-tinted laurel leaf pattern and are the softest hand towels ever offered by SCA Tissue Europe. This is not the first time that Tork products have been associated with royal venues. Tork products are also installed in all 2,618 toilets of the newly-opened Wembley Stadium – including those in the Royal Box. SCA Tissue Europe sales manager Martin Kent said: “We are delighted that The Royal Yacht Britannia has chosen to equip its washrooms with our premium Tork Aluminium range. These high quality dispensers are intended for the most prestigious of locations - and the Royal Yacht’s decision to install them bears this out.” The Tork Aluminium range has just been extended by a further five products. New to the range is a sensor-driven Tork Aluminium Hand Towel Roll dispenser that automatically cuts a length of towel to size when it detects the user’s hands below. Also new is a sensor-driven Tork Aluminium dispenser for newly-launched Tork Premium Luxury Foam Soap. Other Tork Aluminium innovations are dispensers for Tork Premium folded toilet paper and Tork Facial Tissues, and a new recessed unit that serves as a backplate for Tork Aluminium dispensers. The Royal Yacht Britannia has carried The Queen and other members of the Royal Family on nearly 1,000 official voyages. Launched in Clydebank in 1953, it was taken out of service in 1997 and is now permanently moored at Edinburgh. Owned by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, the yacht is now a five-star visitor attraction and one of the UK's most prestigious corporate hospitality venues.
Tork aluminium dispensers set to smarten up washrooms
An upmarket washroom image at an affordable price is being offered by SCA Tissue Europe in the shape of a new range of brushed aluminium dispensers.
The smart new dispensers combine lightweight aluminium with functional plastic to provide a stable, easy-to-clean unit.
"Tork aluminium dispensers allow washroom managers to upgrade to a smarter look without having to pay the high price of stainless steel," said SCA Tissue Europe product and market manager Peter Broom. "Our aluminium range offers savings of around 30-40 per cent over the cost of stainless steel dispensers."
SCA Tissue Europe is the first company to introduce dispensers made from a combination of aluminium and plastic into the UK. The solid plastic backplate makes the dispensers more stable than stainless steel, and they are much lighter, too, which means they are easier to transport.
"The functional design and smooth surface of the dispensers also make them highly practical because they are easy to clean," said Peter. "Unlike stainless steel, the brushed aluminum surface is resistant to fingermarks and it can be cleaned with detergents and solvents without leaving smears behind."
Tork brushed aluminium dispensers are a new upmarket concept for dispensing hand towels, toilet tissue and liquid soaps in away-from-home washrooms. Also in the range is an easy-to-clean, wall-mounted bin with a concealed liner.
SCA Tissue Europe is already seeing high demand for the aluminium dispensers in hotels, restaurants, financial institutions and smart offices. "A growing number of people are realising that smart washrooms can have a big impact on a customer's perceptions of a company," said Peter. "As a result, our aluminium range is appealing to those who consider design and functionality to be the key to their corporate image."
The Tork Interfold towel aluminium dispenser has a soft opening lid and a sliding flap function that allows the cleaner to check whether a refill is necessary without fully opening the unit. The Tork Premium liquid soap aluminium dispenser has an easy push dispensing mechanism, and the Tork Mini Jumbo aluminium dispenser has a stub roll feature designed to ensure continuous supply while minimising waste. When the roll is almost used up, the cleaner removes it and places it on a spindle lower down in the unit.
Tork aluminium dispensers are the latest in a series of SCA Tissue Europe launches aimed at offering customers the chance to trade up to the highest quality products. The company recently launched Tork décor embossed hand towels, aimed at high-image and hygiene-critical washrooms.
The company also spent £20 million upgrading its toilet tissue products last year. New machinery and production techniques were introduced to make Tork Premium folded toilet paper both softer and whiter than ever.
Meanwhile, Tork Advanced toilet rolls were given a higher quality base sheet to give the rolls a brighter appearance and a better "hand-feel".
Tork Aluminium dispensers win prestigious award
The Tork Aluminium dispenser line for washroom products has just won a prestigious award in Germany. Tork Aluminium dispensers won the “Cleaning and care products and industrial hygiene products” prize in the Purus Award, which is affiliated to the CMS trade fair held in Berlin. Judges taken from the business, design and engineering sectors considered various criteria when weighing up the entrants including product quality, functionality, design and presentation. The Tork Aluminium dispenser line was considered to be presented in an outstanding way and display a consistently high level of user-friendliness. “We are delighted at this high-level stamp of approval for the Tork Aluminium dispenser series,” said SCA Tissue Europe product and marketing manager Jenny Turner. “However, we are not surprised to have won this award since the dispensers have been in constant demand in high quality washrooms since their launch last year.” Tork Aluminium was introduced as an alternative to stainless steel washroom dispensers and has become widely used in head offices, financial institutions, hotels and restaurants. Tork Aluminium dispensers typically offer savings of around 30-40 per cent over the cost of stainless steel. The internal mechanisms of Tork Aluminium dispensers are made from plastic which eliminates sharp edges and reduces the weight of the unit, which means it is easier to transport. Aluminium is also resistant to fingermarks and can be cleaned using any detergent. Tork Aluminium dispensers are available for Tork interfold towels, Tork Premium liquid soap, Tork mini jumbo toilet rolls, Tork Premium folded toilet paper and Tork Facial Tissues. There are also sensor-driven Tork Aluminium dispensers for Tork hand towel rolls and Tork luxury foam soap, plus a recessed unit that serves as a backplate for Tork Aluminium dispensers. The Purus Awards have been organised by Messe Berlin GmbH as part of the CMS event since 2005. The international CMS trade show for cleaning systems, building management and services takes place in Berlin from 18 to 21 September. Presentations to the winners will take place on 19 September at CMS 2007 and products selected for the Purus Awards will be on display in Hall 2.2 throughout the event.
Tork décor embossed towels make re-ordering easier
Both the distributor and the washroom user are reaping the benefits of new Tork embossed hand towels. The new disposable towels from SCA Tissue Europe are ultra soft and feature an attractive laurel leaf pattern, which makes them popular with washroom users. Meanwhile the distinctive appearance of the towels helps to create a strong washroom identity and makes them even easier for the distributor to sell. "The towels feature the Tork logo on every sheet and this - plus the leaf pattern in a choice of three colours - means that Tork towels are now easier to recognise than others," said SCA Tissue Europe product and market manager Peter Broom. "Now customers can request: 'the Tork towel with the lilac leaves' rather than having to remember the product codes, and this makes re-ordering both quicker and easier." Tork décor embossed towels are available in interfold and roll towel format. Tork Premium Extra Soft interfold towels feature a lilac laurel leaf pattern while Tork Premium Soft and Tork Premium interfold towels have an ice blue design and Tork Advanced hand towel rolls feature a grey laurel leaf. The Premium quality interfold towels are proving popular in hygiene-conscious healthcare environments as well as in hotels, restaurants and smart offices. Tork Advanced hand towel rolls are aimed at high-use washrooms in service stations, airports, offices and institutions. All Tork décor embossed towels fit into existing Tork dispensers. Besides their softness and attractive appearance, Tork decor embossed hand towels also offer environmental and cost in use benefits over other towels. Less glue is used in their manufacture which makes them more environmentally-friendly than rival products, while their increased softness and bulk means visitors tend to take only one towel per visit and over-consumption is reduced as a result.
Tork décor embossed towels offer new heights of luxury
Tork will offer a new level of luxury in the washroom this spring with the launch of décor embossed Tork Premium Extra Soft hand towels.
These will have a distinctive lilac-tinted laurel leaf pattern and will be the softest hand towels ever offered by Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe. They will also offer major cost-in-use benefits, says product and market manager Peter Broom.
"Décor embossed Tork Premium is the ultimate hand towel and it has been launched after extensive research and product development," he said. "The lilac-coloured glue used in the décor embossing process gives the towel a softer, more luxurious appearance and we believe this feature to be unique in the UK marketplace."
The 2-ply towels are made using décor embossing technology which means that two Through Air Dried layers are bonded together using coloured glue arranged in decorative patterns. Décor embossing requires less glue than other bonding methods, so the towels have a softer texture and are more environmentally friendly than rival products.
"Another huge benefit of décor embossed Tork Premium Extra Soft is the fact that it is economical in use, " said Peter. "The combination of bulk, softness and strength means that washroom visitors tend to take only one towel per visit and therefore over-consumption is reduced."
Tork Premium Extra Soft is a large, four-panel towel and is equally soft when wet and dry. It will appeal to a wide range of markets, says Peter.
"Ultra soft towels promote better hand hygiene so we are anticipating huge demand from hygiene-critical environments such as healthcare institutions," he said. "We also expect embossed Tork Premium Extra Soft to appeal strongly to upmarket restaurants and hotels where image is vitally important."
The towels fit into all Tork Interfold dispensers, which means that it is a simple process to upgrade to décor embossed towels. Tork Interfold dispensers have a streamlined, elegant design and present the towels one at a time and unfolded to avoid cross-contamination.
Other hand towel options from SCA Tissue Europe include Tork Hand Towel Rolls. These are a long-lasting system with a semi-automatic function that cuts the towel to length inside the dispenser to ensure that each towel is touched only by the user.
Tork Premium Hand Towel Rolls are particularly suitable for use in high use washrooms in service stations, airports and institutions. Tork Premium Hand Towel Roll Soft is designed for use in smart offices, hotels, restaurants and catering establishments.
Tork expands its new décor embossed towel range
Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe has added to the Tork décor embossed range in a bid to upgrade its core hand towel offering.
This means that new Tork décor embossed towels with their distinctive laurel-leaf pattern are now available in a choice of formats and qualities.
Décor embossed Tork Premium Extra Soft interfold towels were launched earlier this year and immediately proved popular with upmarket hotels, restaurants and offices as well as hygiene-critical environments such as hospitals.
"We are always looking at ways of upgrading our hand towels," said product and market manager Peter Broom. "The technology behind décor embossing has allowed us to improve the softness and performance of the towels while also enhancing their appearance."
Décor embossing involves bonding two layers of towel together using a coloured glue arranged in decorative patterns. The fact that the layers are only bonded at the laurel leaf pattern means that less glue is used, while the loosely-bonded fibres create a web-like effect. The towels are therefore softer and more absorbent than others made from two layers that are bonded across the entire sheet.
Tork Premium Extra Soft interfold towels feature a lilac laurel leaf pattern. Also now available in the expanded range are the new Tork Premium Soft hand towel rolls which have an ice blue laurel leaf design. Tork Advanced Soft and Tork Advanced hand towel rolls have also been upgraded and receive a grey laurel leaf pattern.
"By using different colours for each type of towel, we are making it easier for customers to tell at a glance which quality level they are choosing," said Peter.
"Another major benefit of décor embossed towels is the fact that they are economical in use. The increased softness and bulk of the towels means that visitors tend to take only one towel per visit, and over-consumption is reduced." The fact that less glue is made in their manufacture also means the towels are more environmentally-friendly than rival products.
Besides being used in the upmarket hotel and restaurant sector, décor embossed Tork Premium Interfold towels are aimed at high profile offices, such as those of financial and legal institutions. Tork Premium hand towel rolls are aimed at smart offices, hotels, restaurants and catering establishments, while Tork Advanced hand towel rolls are used in high-use washrooms in service stations, airports and institutions. All Tork décor embossed towels fit into existing Tork dispensers.
Tork hand towels gain NHS listing for fourth year running
National Health Service hospitals are to equip their washstations with soft Tork hand towels for the fourth year running. The NHS has just renewed its hand towel contract with Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe. "This is good news for SCA and good news for the NHS, because we can help them in their continued battle against the problems of cross-infection," said SCA Tissue Europe key account manager Tony O'Sullivan. "The fact that the NHS has renewed its contract with Tork demonstrates its conviction that there is a strong link between softer towels and improved hand hygiene practices." SCA Tissue Europe was first listed by the NHS in 2002 when health chiefs began to perceive problems associated with the rough, abrasive hand towels traditionally supplied in hospitals. Nurses and other medical staff were becoming reluctant to use these towels because they caused chapping and dryness with frequent use. Increasing pressure from the Government to improve hand hygiene in hospitals led to a switch by many NHS trusts to softer towels. Over the past few years, hospitals all over Britain have been replacing their low quality C-fold towels with Tork Premium Hand Towel Interfold Extra Soft. "We at SCA have been moving on parallel lines with the NHS as regards to what they are trying to achieve," said Tony. "There is a move within the NHS to provide different quality hand towels to their public areas, general wards and intensive care facilities. Our newly-branded Tork Universal, Tork Advanced and Tork Premium products allow hospital chiefs to differentiate between our good, better and best towels so that the softest, most user-friendly products go into the most hygiene-sensitive environments." SCA re-branded all its washroom products under the names Tork Universal, Tork Advanced and Tork Premium from January this year. At the same time the company launched its Tork Hygiene at Work scheme for hospital hygiene staff, which combines staff training with reminders and prompts to encourage better hand hygiene in hospitals. Studies have shown that rates of MRSA tend to fall by between 10 and 50 per cent when healthcare staff regularly clean their hands between patients. This was recently borne out by a six-month pilot of a "Clean Your Hands" campaign implemented by the National Patient Safety Agency which led to a threefold increase in staff washing their hands. The Department of Health estimates that if the campaign were to be carried out throughout Britain with the same degree of success, 450 lives and £140million a year would be saved. "We at SCA Tissue Europe are committed to improving hand hygiene in hospitals," said the company's healthcare product and market manager Kelvin Hefford. "By continuing to provide them with the right washroom products coupled with effective training, we believe we can make a real difference." SCA Tissue Europe provides the NHS with Tork Premium Hand Towel Interfold Extra Soft; Tork Advanced Hand Towel Zigzag Fold; Tork Universal Toilet Paper Jumbo Roll; and Tork Premium Facial Tissues Extra Soft.
Tork Hygiene at work aims to curb the spread of MRSA
A new move to improve hand hygiene in UK hospitals is being made by Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe. The company is offering hand hygiene training to infection control nurses in a bid to reduce the number of hospital-acquired infections such as MRSA. Tork Hygiene at Work is being introduced this month (January 2005) and will consist of a series of modules. SCA's trained staff will train infection control nurses and other healthcare staff on site in hospitals. SCA Tissue Europe's healthcare product and market manager Kelvin Hefford said: "The aim of Tork Hygiene at Work is to raise awareness of the type of activities that can cause cross-contamination in hospitals, and to help healthcare staff provide the best hand hygiene facilities. "This training-led approach is vital today because hospital-acquired infections are increasing. There are several reasons for this: the increasing age of the country's population is a factor and so, too, is the fact that hospitals are overcrowded and that bacteria are becoming immune to some commonly-used antibiotics. "However, studies show that more than 50 per cent of nurses are still not washing their hands properly." Tork Hygiene at Work comprises a Basic Hygiene at Work module plus two further modules aimed specifically at the healthcare sector. Healthcare 1 provides basic training and motivational tools while Healthcare 2 allows the results of the programme to be professionally measured. "Besides providing vital advice on how to equip washrooms in hospitals, Tork Hygiene at Work also provides some thought-provoking information about hand hygiene," said Kelvin. "For example it is not commonly known that bacteria equal in numbers to the population of Europe can be found beneath an average person's wedding ring. Also, a door handle contaminated by a person who has not washed their hands will contaminate the hands of the next 14 people who use it." SCA provides Tork Hygiene at Work participants with a complete range of communication materials including stickers, posters and leaflets. SCA Tissue Europe manufactures soft disposable hand towels for use in hospital washrooms. Tork Premium Hand Towel Interfold Extra Soft towels are aimed at hygiene-critical areas such as intensive care wards, while Tork Advanced Hand Towel Zigzag Fold towels are suitable for general use in hospital washrooms.
Tork manufacturer SCA is the world’s second greenest company
Tork manufacturer SCA is the second greenest company in the world, according to a new report out this month (June 07). The company gained the ranking in the Green Leaders Global Top Ten, published by the Independent newspaper in conjunction with Ethical Investment Research Services. “To attain second place in a global ‘green list’ is a great achievement and one of which we are very proud,” said SCA Tissue Europe’s UK & Ireland Away From Home region director, Alexander de Jongh. SCA was the only paper company to be ranked in the Green Leaders Global Top Ten and was beaten only by Vestas Wind Systems, the world’s leading manufacturer of wind turbines. In third place was Dutch banking group ABN-Amro. Also listed were electronics giants Sanyo and Philips plus Britain’s BT and Kingfisher organisations. The Independent and EIRIS took into account a range of criteria when compiling the guide such as management systems, use of renewable energy, waste production, water use and improvements related to climate change. “At SCA we follow a strict environmental and sustainability policy and we are continuously striving to improve our environmental status,” said Alexander de Jongh. “When choosing raw materials, product design, packaging and distribution systems we always consider environmental impact as well as the economic and functional aspects. In fact most of SCA’s products are produced from renewable and recyclable materials whenever this can be done without compromising safety and product quality.” The environmental credentials of SCA are becoming increasingly recognised in a climate where ethical manufacturing policies are growing in importance both for investors and for customers. Earlier this year SCA Tissue Europe won the washroom contract for the new Wembley Stadium partly on the grounds of its environmental policies. In the latest review of tissue companies by WWF International, SCA’s environmental performance came out ahead of all its rivals including Proctor & Gamble, Kimberly Clark, Georgia-Pacific and Metsä Tissue. And in 2006 SCA qualified for Innovest’s “Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World” list and earned “leading performer” and “active performer” status in Vigeo’s Ethibel Excellence Index. The Green Leaders guide highlights the fact that SCA’s forests meet Forestry Stewardship Council criteria and the company’s tissue products use a high proportion of recycled fibre. Also praised are SCA’s clear policies on water emissions and illegal logging and its high rates of waste recovery plus the company’s use of carbon neutral fuels such as wood residue and biofuels. SCA is the parent company of SCA Tissue Europe which manufactures Tork tissue products for washroom, catering, healthcare and industrial environment.
Tork napkin dispenser offers environmental benefits and advertising space
A napkin dispenser that cuts consumption, reduces waste and allows food outlets to display key messages to customers has just been launched by Tork.
The Tork interfold napkin dispenser offers huge cost-in-use and environmental benefits over traditional dispensers, says SCA Tissue Europe product and market manager Emma Goulding.
“Many dispensers on the market actually make it hard for customers to avoid pulling out napkins in clumps, resulting in high levels of waste,” said Emma.
“The Tork interfold napkin dispenser gives out one napkin at a time, which significantly reduces waste and therefore cost in use. In fact tests have shown that catering outlets can cut their napkin consumption by 25 per cent by switching to the Tork interfold napkin dispenser.”
Fewer napkins used means less waste is produced, which is a major environmental benefit. The fact that the napkins are supplied in cardboard cartons with no inner plastic sleeves means that the packaging is also entirely biodegradable.
Another feature of the Tork interfold napkin dispenser is a unique, patent-protected Ad-a-Glance window for displaying messages to customers. This is a clear plastic A5 screen where food outlets can display advertising messages and offers.
Tork offers around 40 Ad-a-Glance templates featuring a range of food, drink and special event images that can be downloaded from www.tork.co.uk. These templates can be customised with a food outlet’s own message, then printed out and placed inside the Ad-a-Glance window.
“Our templates are really easy to use and the Ad-a-Glance feature is
a major benefit to food outlets, since every customer will see the desired message when taking their napkin,” said Emma.
The dispenser also cuts down on refilling time since it holds up to 900 napkins, which is nearly three times the capacity of traditional napkin dispensers. The fact that Tork Universal dispenser napkins are dispensed singly from the Tork interfold napkin dispenser means that each napkin is touched only by the user, which is an added hygiene benefit.
“Most food service establishments are only too aware of the problems of high maintenance and over-consumption associated with
traditional napkin dispensers,” said Emma.
“The Tork interfold napkin system is what catering establishments have been waiting for – an efficient napkin dispenser that can cut consumption, reduce waste and bring down costs. The fact that it also has an advertising display feature makes it even more attractive to customers.”
Tork secures UK account of retail giant McDonald’s
Tork manufacturer SCA Tissue Europe has secured a two-year contract supplying washroom products to restaurant giant McDonald’s in the UK. In a sole deal with McDonald’s and their buying arm, IPL Perseco, Tork now supplies McDonald’s UK outlets with three toilet paper systems plus a kitchen roll product. Tork has also secured the business of McDonald’s in three other European countries: France, Germany and Sweden. National key account manager for SCA Tissue Europe Tom Dudfield said: “We are delighted to have secured this deal because every paper manufacturer in Europe would want to be associated with McDonald’s. “We ticked all the right boxes for them on issues such as quality, price and the environment – which is why we gained their business.” Among the products supplied to McDonald’s in the UK is Tork Premium folded toilet paper. This is dispensed in a hygienic system designed to ensure that each sheet is touched only by the user. Tork Premium folded toilet paper is refilled using the “Tork Top and Go” concept, which allows the dispenser to be topped up at any time. Each pack of 2-ply Tork Premium folded contains around 250 sheets. Also supplied to McDonald’s by SCA Tissue Europe are Vario kitchen rolls, which are used for buffing up stainless steel kitchen surfaces, plus mini jumbo toilet rolls and conventional toilet rolls. McDonald's is a leading global food service retailer with more than 30,000 restaurants serving food to nearly 50 million customers in more than 100 countries each day. Approximately 70 percent of McDonald's restaurants are independently owned and operated, and more than 60 per cent of the retailer’s European outlets are situated in the UK, Germany and France. SCA Tissue Europe’s international key account manager Catarina Wickström says: “We are very happy to serve McDonald's. We look forward to growing further in Europe and to continuing to supply them in an efficient way.”
Tork simplifies its washroom range in branding overhaul
A washroom product range that is easier both to buy and to sell has been launched by Tork.
The move simplifies the entire Tork washroom assortment as manufacturer SCA Tissue sets its sights on becoming the world’s number one away-from-home tissue company.
From January 1 all Tork washroom products have been split into the three sub-brands: Tork Universal, Tork Advanced and Tork Premium. This “good, better, best” labelling approach more clearly signals to customers the differences between each product.
In addition, all products now have a clear product description proclaiming exactly what they are: for example Tork Premium Hand Towel Roll, Tork Advanced Toilet Paper Roll etc.
SCA Tissue Europé region marketing director Brian Parkinson says the changes are a positive move forward. “The new branding structure is the simplest and most logical on the market. Our product names had evolved over a number of years and there was no coherent branding strategy.
“This meant that names such as Tork Xpress, Tork Matic, T-Tork and Bulk Tork were causing confusion among customers who simply wanted to know what each product was for and where it fitted into our range.
“Following extensive investment in our branding approach we’ve reached the conclusion that straightforward names are absolutely the best way ahead. We are taking the mystery out of our range and enabling customers to know exactly what they are going to get.”
SCA Tissue is currently the number one away-from-home tissue manufacturer both in Europe and in Australasia, and the third largest in the US. “By unifying our product names under the Tork brand across the globe we are taking the next step towards becoming the world’s leading manufacturer of away-from-home tissue products,” said Brian.
Packaging of the newly-named products have been differentiated to create a logical new family of Tork products, with white packaging for Tork Premium products, and brown cartons for Tork Advanced and Tork Universal. Article reference numbers will remain unchanged.
Tork simplifies sales process for FSCs and distributors
Two new schemes designed to make life easier for distributors and facility service companies are being launched on the Tork stand at ISSA/Interclean. Tork manufacturer SCA Hygiene Products will be introducing a module-based package of sales support tools for facility services companies. The company will also be unveiling a new, streamlined approach to washroom hygiene products that will aid both FSCs and distributors. Tork Facility Partner provides facility service companies with a package of easy-to-use tools designed to simplify the sales process. This includes upgraded sales support material, a tailored product offering and additional training services. The new washroom segmentation helps customers to select the right hygiene offer based upon their washroom type. The washroom is segmented by the volume of traffic it receives and the type of image that the washroom manager wishes to project. Based on customer and end-user research, this washroom segmentation aims to make it as easy as possible for customers to select the best products and dispensers for their washroom. This saves both time and money for distributors and facility service companies. SCA Away from Home will also be showing a range of Tork washroom products and dispensers at the exhibition. The company’s 153sq m Tork stand, carrying the slogan "Always working for you", will feature products such as premium hand towel Tork Xpress Comfort which is aimed at image-conscious hotels, restaurants and offices as well as hygiene-sensitive environments such as food and healthcare. Also on show will be Tork Matic Comfort, a semi-automatic soft hand towel system dispensed from the Tork Matic-Box. SCA Hygiene Products will also be unveiling the results of an extensive European survey at ISSA/Interclean. The survey reveals what office workers really think about their washrooms and highlights some of the key problems associated with them.
Tork toilet rolls head for the Antarctic
A shipload of 84 cases of Tork conventional toilet rolls leaves Britain this autumn bound for the Antarctic. The toilet rolls will equip the washrooms of the British Antarctica Survey's (BAS) research stations in and around the continent. BAS has been using Tork toilet rolls for the past five years. "We like the fact that Tork toilet rolls are unbleached and recycled, since we prefer to deal with environmentally-friendly companies," said the British Antarctica Survey's purchasing officer Sue Reason. "We also need reliable products that we know won't block the loos. The toilets at our stations don't use a vacuum flush system so it is vital that the toilet paper breaks down efficiently in water.” Toilet tissue at BAS's largest station Rothera is flushed away using seawater and passes through a macerator before going on to a sewage treatment plant. Equipping the Antarctica stations poses various logistical difficulties. Day-to-day supplies are only shipped out once a year, so careful planning is needed to ensure that nothing is left out, and that supplies don't run out if the ship is delayed by sea ice. Toilet tissue ordered caters for one roll per scientist per week. Bedrooms at Rothera are en-suite rooms for two people and the use of conventional toilet rolls gives them a more homely feel. The British Antarctic Survey has three stations in the Antarctic and two in the sub-Antarctic. The stations are used for research into a number of areas including atmospheric science, marine biology and climate change. Scientists each stay an average of 18 months and the number of scientists using the facilities varies according to the time of the year. Tork conventional toilet rolls are due to be shipped out to these other four stations later in the autumn on the two Royal Research Ships operated by the British Antarctic Survey. Tork conventional toilet rolls are one of a range of toilet tissue options from SCA Tissue Europe. Others include the Tork jumbo roll which is available in Premium, Advanced and Universal grades and comes in a mini version for lower-use areas; and Tork Premium folded toilet paper, dispensed in a hygienic system designed to ensure that each sheet is touched only by the user.
Tork-sponsored glider wins British championship
Tork-sponsored glider Andy Perkins beat more than 50 pilots to gain first place in the British Junior National Championships this year.
His win was particularly important since he gave up his leading position in last year’s World Gliding Championships to help rescue a Danish pilot who had crashed in the mountains.
This is the second year that Tork manufacturer SCA Hygiene Products has sponsored a team of young British gliders. SCA Hygiene Products supplies the team with premium wiping cloth Tork 909 to clean their aircraft.
”It is absolutely vital that the fuselage and wings are kept as clean as possible,” said team co-ordinator John Macknay. ”The more slippery the wing surface, the better the glide angle. We take the gliders apart every night during the championships and polish them up with Tork 909. It makes a huge difference - the gliders hit bugs in the air all the time and dirty wings are detrimental to their performance.”
In last year’s World Championships in Slovakia, Andy Perkins left the race to circle the spot where a Danish pilot had gone down in order to give the rescue services a fix on his location. Andy’s overall win this year came despite terrible weather during the British event, which was held near Basingstoke in August.
Andy is a qualified airline pilot whose ”day job” is to fly B737s for no-frills British airline BMI Baby.
Tork’s two other pilots – Hannah Hay and Andrew May – also did well, with Andrew coming eighth overall and first in the under 21s category, and Hannah gaining third place in the ladies’ event.
The gliding championship involved pilots race against each other at speeds up to 100 miles an hour and on courses of up to 400 miles’ distance. The overall winner was decided by cumulative points scored throughout the contest.
Region marketing director of SCA Hygiene Products Brian Parkinson said: ”We are delighted to be supporting the British team. They stand for many of the same values as we do such as teamwork, hard work, dedication and success.”
Tork-sponsored team wins World Gliding Championship
Junior gliders from Britain achieved first, second and fifth place at the World Gliding Championships sponsored by Tork this year. This is the first year that Tork manufacturer SCA Hygiene Products has sponsored the British Junior Gliding team. Lead commercial product and market manager Andrew Blyth said: ”We are delighted to be supporting them - they stand for many of the same values as we do such as teamwork, hard work, dedication and, of course, success.” Winner of the Standard Class in the Junior World Championships was Britain’s Jez Hood. Luke Rebbeck came second and Leigh Wells was fifth. The British team uses SCA Hygiene Products’ specialist polishing cloth Tork 909 to clean the wings of its gliders. ” A glider’s aerofoil has to be mirror-finished - that is absolutely vital,” said team co-ordinator John Macknay. ” We take the gliders apart every night during the championships and polish them up. It makes a huge difference - the gliders hit bugs in the air all the time and dirty wings are detrimental to their performance.” Tork 909, which is usually used in car bodyshops for polishing paintwork, has a net-like structure that makes it capable of spreading and removing polish evenly to leave a brilliant finish. The 3rd Junior World Championsips were held in Slovakia in July. Besides entering the prestigious Standard Class the British Junior team – all aged under 25 - also entered the Club Class where its pilots finished fourth, sixth and twelfth. One Club Class pilot, Andy Perkins, became a hero when he gave up his leading position in the race to help rescue a Danish pilot who had crashed in the mountains. ”Andy circled the spot where the pilot had gone down to give the rescue services a fix on his location,” said John. ”Luckily the Danish pilot didn’t sustain any serious damage – neither did his glider.” Tork customer Stephanie Fahy of Western Hygiene was guest of the team during the last weekend of the championships. She won the trip to Slovakia in an SCAHygiene Products prize draw held at this year’s Cleaning Show.
Tornex virtually eliminate passive smoking at Searsons Bar in Dublin
There is a way to virtually eliminate passive smoking in public areas without needing to ban it. Tornex has developed a new ceiling mounted system, TX-l 5, utilising their patented negative air pressure technology. The concept is simple - the smoky air is contained, using sophisticated airflow technology, then purified and recycled, using a first class filtration system. Please look at the accompanying un-retouched picture carefully.
There have also been recent installations of Tornex counters Reed Business, MW Kellogg and Epson UK. World Customs Organisation in Brussels has installed panels in the delegatesÕ breakout area, wing products have been installed at Barajas Airport, Madrid and BAA has specified panels for waiting areas in terminals at Southampton, Glasgow and Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Stansted.
Other Tornex products include tables and air curtain poles.
Toshiba Business Communications Division has new name and new website
The division of Toshiba Information Systems UK Ltd formerly known as Telecoms has been renamed Business Communications Division by the company to reflect the convergence of voice and data communications in the new century. Toshiba’s Business Communications Division is a leading supplier of business communication solutions and has been supplying solutions in the UK since 1987. The change from Telecoms to Business Communications Division follows a shift in business focus from supplying telecommunication products for the SME (small and medium enterprises) sector to offering communication solutions to all sizes of enterprise including larger corporate clients. With the launch of the Strata CTX last year Toshiba now has a business communications solution with a modular growth path to a maximum system configuration of 672 ports with virtually any combination of lines and extensions. Strata CTX is IP enabled allowing customers to migrate to the latest IP technology solutions, as they become available. Strata CTX has also been developed with a portfolio of additional business communications solutions including CTI (computer-telephony integration) capabilities, Unified Messaging and ACD (automatic call distribution) contact centre working. To better reflect the new focus of Toshiba’s Business Communications Division the website for the Division has been relaunched with significant improvements to site navigation, news and media information and the partner portal. A new ‘look and feel’ with fresh imagery has been given to the site by Madison York, a full-service marketing communications consultancy. Commenting on the developments, Sarah Pardoe, Marketing Manager for the Business Communications Division said, “Telecoms has become an anachronism and does not really reflect the systems and services that the Division now offers customers. Developments in IP telephony, computer-telephony integration and voice and data convergence mean that we now have solutions that integrate a number of formerly separate technologies. Multi-media call centres for example take in web technologies, telephony and data contact management and this is an increasingly important part of our business and that of our partners. The new website also reflects these changes and provides visitors with better information and resources that are easier to navigate and access.”
Toshiba Business Communications launches new online ‘Virtual Office’ to educate SMEs
Toshiba Business Communications has created a Virtual Office animation to help educate SMEs about the more complex features and applications of the Toshiba Strata IP-CTX solution. Available on the Toshiba Business Communications website the Virtual Office has been created using Flash animation scenarios to illustrate applications and features such as contact centres and remote working in a visual format which is clearly understandable at both a technical and business user level.
All the functionality demonstrated in the Virtual Office can be achieved by using the Toshiba Strata IP-CTX contact centre suite of applications. The Toshiba contact centre offering includes Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) system, intelligent call routing, powerful CTI applications, remote agent working, back office application integration and interactive voice responses.
Toshiba Business Communications moves into larger system sales with Strata IP-CTX
The latest sales figures collated by Toshiba Business Communications show that sales of the new Strata IP-CTX business communications solution have resulted in an almost doubling of the average system size sold. For the half year from April 2003 to September 2003 the average system size was for 62 lines compared to 37 lines for the period October 2002 to March 2003. As well as increasing the size of the average system sold, Strata IP-CTX has also led to an increase in the sophistication of solutions supplied. Messaging systems sold as part of orders increased from 23 per cent (October 02 to March 03) to 42 per cent (April 03 to September 03). In addition contact centre solution sales have almost doubled in value and now represent over 10 per cent of sales revenue. During 2003 Toshiba partners implemented some major contact centres including a 160 agent centre managing in excess of 35,000 calls per day. Strata IP- CTX has been designed as an intelligent communications platform that can be expanded both in size and functionality to meet the needs of virtually any organisation. The system is fully scaleable from from 8 to 544 extensions. Customers can even grow beyond 544 extensions because Toshiba StrataNet software allows multiple systems in the Strata CTX range to be linked together with a common extension numbering plan. As an applications platform, Strata CTX supports contact centre and remote working, computer-telephony integration, messaging and IP telephony. Commenting on the changing sales pattern Tim Webb, General Manager of Toshiba Business Communications Division said, “Strata IP-CTX is designed as a highly flexible business communications solution for organisations ranging from SME to large enterprise. The change in our sales profile reflects the scalable design of Strata IP-CTX and is in line with our strategy of moving into higher value sales by addressing all the customer’s business communications needs. Strata IP-CTX is allowing our partners to penetrate the enterprise market sector while retaining our traditional core SME business. The product development plans we have for 2004 will ensure this trend continues.” Toshiba, a world leader in business communications Toshiba Business Communications is a division of Toshiba Information Systems UK Ltd, part of the Digital Media Group that includes advanced mobile computing solutions, TV and home cinema equipment and mobile communications, all at the forefront of technical innovation and design Toshiba Business Communications is a leading supplier of business communication solutions and has been supplying solutions in the UK since 1987. Toshiba’s Strata CTX portfolio spans from the SME up the large enterprise with 544 extensions. With enhanced networking capabilities, the Strata CTX can expand further with multiple systems linking together for both the core and branch offices. As an applications platform, Strata CTX supports call centre and remote working, computer-telephony integration, messaging and IP telephony. Toshiba Business Communications Vision statement Toshiba is committed to developing the next generation of converged telephony solutions for the enterprise marketplace. We will provide communication solutions that deliver complete mobility of operations and ease of configuration. Toshiba offers best in class migration, quality and reliability and is dedicated to protecting our customer’s investment. With flexibility and choice, Toshiba is empowering the enterprise to do business the way they want to.
Toshiba launches Strata CTX100S for small Business market
Toshiba Business Communications has announced the launch of Strata CTX100S, a series of eight competitively priced, small telephone system packages supplied complete with featurephones and voicemail options. For example, an eight user Strata CTX100S digital phone system is supplied with a Strategy Flash voice mail system and a mix of eight digital featurephones. This package represents outstanding value for money with a 17 per cent discount on the normal selling price for the components in the package. The Toshiba Strata CTX100S solution is aimed at small businesses and has up to 20 ports. With all the same features and functionality as the Strata IP-CTX100, it is an adaptable communication solution for small businesses. Enabling customer choice, the Strata IP-CTX can be enhanced further to offer options for contact centre functionality, unified messaging, IP telephony and branch office working. Toshiba Strategy Flash is an entry level cost effective voice mail solution for two or four ports with up to four hours storage. It provides users with a variety of call management options via their personal mailbox. They can choose from up to seven greetings, automatically controlled call-screening and personal call queuing with connection choices to an operator or another party. Commenting on the launch of the new Strata CTX100S portfolio, Tim Webb, General Manager of Toshiba Business Communications said, “The packages for the SME market that we have put together represent outstanding value for money and allow customers to take advantage of the benefits of voicemail for a very cost-effective price. We developed these packages based on channel partner feedback and our desire to penetrate further the SME marketplace with the successful Strata CTX solution. We expect the Strata CTX100S to build on our sales success in 2003 and anticipate strong demand.”
Total fall protection for major retailer
Dunn & Cowe's horizontal safety line system, Lineanka, has been selected by the UK's leading DIY and garden retailer to ensure the safe working of all contractors when carrying out external work on the roofs of many of its stores. The Lineanka system, installed by GutterKleen Waste Water Services, was fitted retrospectively at all stores that didn't have suitable systems supplied at the time of construction. Lineanka gives roof top workers total fall protection as they are continuously attached to a flexible safety line whilst travelling along the system. The user can move from one side of the line to the other without the need to disconnect. With pre-assembled components it is also easy to install, reducing on-site labour costs. The class C system is made from high quality stainless steel for durability and weather resistance. It is manufactured to EN795 and BS7883 and assists in working to Health & Safety at Work laws. As one of the UK's leading manufacturers of fall arrest systems, Dunn & Cowe has over 20 years of experience in providing quality products with an excellent technical backup. Further information on the Lineanka system may be downloaded from the product section of the company's website at, or is available from
Total fire protection for 19” cabinets
WAGNER UK has launched TITANUS RACK•SENS®, a range of modular fire protection systems for 19” rack cabinets. Based on their popular TITANUS MICRO•SENS® addressable Air Sampling Detection (ASD) system RACK•SENS® provides very early smoke detection within the localised environment of a single cabinet. In the event of a fire the system within the cabinet can be quickly shutdown, minimising damage and isolating the problem without affecting other cabinets and systems in the room. Using an external sampling pipe, a single RACK•SENS® unit can protect up to 5 cabinets and identify and shutdown which cabinet has caused the alarm.
A second version of RACK•SENS® incorporates both ASD and extinguishing in a single unit. This can use either a FM 200 or Novec 1230 extinguishant cylinder self-contained in the unit or it can trigger an external exinguishing agent. For optimum reliability, RACK•SENS® can be fitted with a second detector so that a ’double-knock’ must occur before the rack is shutdown or extinguishant released.
Plug & Play technology ensures that the units are easy to install and commission. Consequently many OEM’s are now offering RACK•SENS® as a standard fit option for their 19” cabinet systems. However, they can just as easily be retro-fitted to existing cabinets. As RACK•SENS® can instantly shutdown at a localised level in the event of a fire, other parts of the operation remain unaffected. This makes it an ideal fire protection solution for server rooms or telecommunication racks where any downtime needs to be kept to an absolute minimum.
RACK•SENS®, like the other ASD units in the TITANUS® range, incorporate PIPE•GUARD and LOGIC•SENS. PIPE-GUARD is a unique monitoring system that detects if a sampling hole is blocked, a pipe is ruptured or if the air sampling unit has failed. LOGIC•SENS is an advanced signal processing technology that analyses the smoke sample and provides the earliest possible smoke detection whilst safely eliminating false alarms.
Total Gutter Maintenance - Looking after your overheads
Poorly maintained gutters and drains can cause serious problems. Without regular inspection and cleaning, blockages in modern drainage systems can have severe effects on the system’s performance, resulting in damage to buildings, stock, customer reputation, insurance and ultimately profits.
It is extensively recognised that buildings are a valuable asset, which must be maintained in order for them to retain their value. Moreover there are also basic statutory requirements that buildings should be kept safe for their occupants and passers by.
Areas such as gutters and drains are often overlooked, or ignored until there is a serious problem. Parishioners near Belfast have recently paid £60,000 to treat their historic church for dry rot, which was caused by a blocked gutter. This money could have been saved, if they had conducted annual maintenance checks. After such problems occur, insurance companies have been known to refuse renewal if a regular contract of maintenance is not in place. Regular checks and maintenance of all aspects of a buildings drainage systems, provide the best way to protect the value and character of any building, old or new.
Total Gutter Maintenance Ltd provides a nationwide maintenance service, devoted to the regular cleaning of Roof Drainage Systems and Surface Water Drain Channels to all types of properties within a wide and varied market sector.
Since the Company was formed six years ago it has built a solid and ever-growing, loyal client base. The Company ethos is to gain customers for life. This it achieves very successfully by working in partnership with its clients and providing specialist tailor-made service packages, which represent good value for money. Whilst the Company name is now a misnomer, operations having developed and diversified way beyond simply gutter cleaning, the original ethos very much still remains.
In addition to surface water drain cleaning, operations now include remedial works such as bitumen treatments, joint sealants and repairs and all works are fully guaranteed.
Market sectors in which TGM operates include Retail, Industrial, Defence, Education and Health and there are over 300 established customers, incorporating many blue chip clients such as the Focus Group, Courts Furnishings Ltd, Toys R Us, Mowlem Aqumen and Wm Morrisons & Sons, through to individual smaller companies.
Health and Safety is a key issue to TGM, and the systems and procedures in place are likely to be the envy of many construction companies much larger than TGM. The firm employs a dedicated Health, Safety and Quality Manager, Mr Steve Trafford, (MIOSH:MIIRSM) and a Health and Safety Co-ordinator Mr Brett Ellis (NEBOSH), and all staff involved with working at heights are fully inducted and trained. Furthermore TGM is Supplyline Approved and site specific risk assessments and method statements are carried out irrespective of the size of the contract.
There are nine two man teams covering the UK, who are all directly employed and uniformed and carry security identifications. All signed TGM vehicles are equipped with satellite navigation and all carry safety plant and access equipment for carrying out the works.
Due to significant changes in the legislation related to working at heights coupled with the recognition that 70–75% of Health and Safety risks can be reduced by utilising cherry pickers, all TGM operatives working at heights, use truck mounted boom vans.
This year TGM are making a huge investment to the tune of around £400,000, in replacing the whole of their current fleet with brand new 7.5 ton Daf trucks with Italian manufactured Bizzocchi 17 metre reach telescopic booms. This will reduce the need to hire in booms, and the subsequent savings can be passed onto the customer. The first two booms are arriving in early May 2003, with the last two of nine to be delivered at the beginning of September, and will prove a valuable asset to the company.
In a rapidly evolving market environment which is becoming more and more complex, employers have had to recognise the significance of their Health and Safety responsibilities (and the fines and possible imprisonment if they are found to be negligent). Where outsourcing of Facilities Management functions is becoming more prevalent, specialist companies like TGM need to be increasingly adaptable and flexible. TGM Ltd has proven its adaptability and for this organisation at least bigger truly means better.
All operations are managed from the Head Office where the company boasts a professional and client-focused management team. The company has obtained ISO 9001:2000 accreditation, the achievement of which reflects the quality systems that are in place and reinforces the Company’s reputation for service, quality and reliability.
Free site surveys are offered for anywhere in the UK mainland and advice and recommendations are provided to suit individual client requirements eg. number of cleans, access difficulties, working out of hours.
Total Gutter Maintenance - Reaching new heights of service
TGM Ltd is best recognized as specialists in the cleaning and maintenance of commercial roof and ground drainage systems on a national basis. In addition to these core activities we offer the services of roof and cladding cleaning, cut edge corrosion/metal edge protection works and gutter lining systems. These activities utilize TGM's expertise and experience in working at heights and give you the assurance that all Health and Safety matters will be dealt with in a professional and safe manner. Cladding & Roof Cleaning; Side cladding - as company image becomes more and more important in clients perceptions an external view has to be taken by all self respecting businesses. If PVC type coatings are never cleaned they become so ingrained with dirt and acid rain they become impossible to clean, therefore making regular maintenance so important in the up-keep of these types of buildings. TGM can provide a tailor made service which incorporates our working at height capabilities with our dedication for high levels of customer service, SAFELY. Roof cladding - roof areas are often overlooked as few people have the capability of viewing these areas. Deterioration of the PVC coating, however still takes place. Pigeon or seagull excreta are a particular problem and eat into the coatings. Eventually they breakdown and expensive remedial works are needed, which may cause disruption to trade and even damage to stock, and ultimately profits. Gutter Lining: The problems with leaking gutters can be extensive and varied, and here at TGM we can offer a multitude of solutions to suit all budgets and specifications. Ranging from joint sealant and bitumen treatments, which can be conducted at the same time as a gutter clean to minimize disruption, to Unifold gutter re-lining systems which can be guaranteed for 20 years. With TGM's help leaking gutters will be a thing of the past. Cut Edge Corrosion/Metal Edge Protection: Problems of de-lamination and deterioration of the coatings on metal profiled sheets present an ever-present risk to the integrity of the roof structure and ultimately its performance. TGM are a registered contractor for the SEAMSIL flexible silicone remedial system, which is recognized as the most effective metal edge protection treatment in any situation where exposed metal is subjected to aggressive moisture conditions. For peace of mind TGM takes pleasure in offering a full 10-year guarantee.
Total portables offer premium-brand performance
Tyco Fire Suppression Group has launched an extensive new range of portable extinguishers in the UK under the TOTAL brand. They are available exclusively through Express Fire in Manchester and CheckFire in Cardiff, and from a country-wide network of approved TOTAL supply partners that are trained to advise, install and maintain the right extinguishers in peak condition. The options include foam, water, dry powder and 002 [carbon dioxide] extinguishing agents. Internationally-approved and manufactured in Germany to the industry's most exacting standards, the range comprises models that are suitable for Class A, B, C, D and F fires. The TOTAL offering also includes several unique speciality portable extinguishers, each of which is designed to satisfy particular fire safety challenges or market needs. These specials include powder portables for metal and coal fires; antimagnetic CO2 portables for hospitals and clinics; specially-formulated water portables for sawdust fires; wet chemical portables for cooking oil and fat fires, and purpose-designed foam portables for polar liquid fires. Engineers at Tyco's dedicated portables research and manufacturing facility in Neuruppin in Germany, where the TOTAL portables are produced, have also devised a unique "Tandem" portable I automatic extinguisher. This doubles up as a fixed, automatic extinguisher for protecting unattended fire risks. However, what most exemplifies TOTAL portables is their unrivalled build quality and meticulous attention to detail. Virtually every stage of cylinder manufacture is under TOTAL's direct control, including material selection and sourcing in Europe, the most advanced low-heat plasma welding, fabrication, assembly and high-performance powder-coating, cylinder pressure testing and agent filling. This commitment to quality is underpinned by uniquely numbering each and every TOTAL cylinder to provide a complete and reliable quality audit trail. All TOTAL portables are manufactured in the purpose-built factory from specially formulated steel that remains flexible after heating and welding. The one-millimetre-thick internal powder coating is widely recognised as the industry's most hardwearing surface. Every cylinder is electrode-tested to ensure that there are no pin-point flaws in the coating, and the quality of the finish can be judged by the fact that there is a complete absence of colour fading that is a common feature of many inferior quality cylinders. Even the cylinder wall-mounting brackets are designed to ensure that there is no metal-to-metal or metal-to-wall scuff ing. TOTAL portables are guaranteed for five years, providing they are serviced from new in accordance with the appropriate regulatory standards.
Total revision needed of EU procurement directives says CIOB
The European Union public works market is worth an estimated £1,000bn but a review commissioned by the Treasury has found that UK companies are being frozen out by unfair practices.
The report by Alan Wood, chief executive of Siemens concludes that despite the existence of single market rules in awarding public contracts, the complex public procurement procedures, unfair national preference, and wavering commitment to competition and market liberalisation hold back the creation of a competitive and dynamic EU public procurement market.
Specifically the report identifies contracts awarded to national suppliers even where foreign bidders are believed to offer better quality or price. However the review also highlights a number of success factors that UK businesses can apply to increase their chances of winning public procurement contracts in other EU countries.
Saleem Akram CIOB director said, “The EU directives were meant to increase competition, lead to lower prices and encourage improved performance and innovation. However, recent developments in procurement resulted in an inconsistent approach towards the use of EU Directives in many EU countries, and therefore had both de jure and de facto discriminatory effects.
“The CIOB strongly believes that in projects where innovation is at a premium or projects which are to be developed through long term framework agreements or partnering, it is difficult to see how current EU procedures can successfully be used. It is time to thoroughly review and revise them but it will be a fruitless exercise if all EU countries do not firmly commit to implement them.”
Gordon Brown Chancellor of the Exchequer commented, “This is an essential element of the economic reform agenda and it cannot be ducked. To be effective economic reform must include reform of the state aid regime.
“Europe needs to do more to create a genuine single market in public procurement, in which European and international rules are fairly applied, and to allow businesses to compete and create jobs across the EU. This report shows clearly that there is widespread preference for domestic industries in many parts of Europe.”
Total smoking ban is not a workable option, says Air Cleaner Manufacturers Association (ACMA)
ACMA dossier to Department of Health proposes premises are exempted from smoking ban if air cleaners are installed The Air Cleaner Manufacturers Association (ACMA) has stated its support for government's efforts to reduce smoking but does not believe a total smoking ban is workable. In its dossier submitted to the DoH (Department of Health) Smokefree Legislation Team, ACMA points out that air cleaning provides a "middle way" that affords comfort and clean air provision for both smokers and non-smokers alike. "The industry recognises that a total ban on smoking is unlikely, as is the status quo, so regulation is likely, commented Honeywell, the leading air cleaner manufacturer and an ACMA member. "Air cleaners can minimise the practical difficulties and allow smokers and non-smokers alike the opportunity to enjoy clean air. As we state in the ACMA dossier, an air cleaner costs only about £1 per day to run." ACMA proposes that premises be exempted from any ban on smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces if either the whole room is treated by air cleaners or self-contained smoking booths are provided. ACMA stresses that air cleaners remove pollutants, unlike ventilation which merely displaces them elsewhere. It points out that a correctly maintained and operated air cleaner, used alone or with ventilation, will reduce particulate pollution from tobacco smoke in all kinds of indoor environments such as bars, clubs, restaurants and casinos. Cleaners fitted with additional filters can also reduce gaseous and odour pollution. "It is very well proven technology," stressed Honeywell. "Millions of Honeywell air cleaners alone are already in daily use worldwide, in cafés, bars, restaurants, offices, hotels, leisure centres and other venues. They allow smokers and non-smokers to socialise without discomfort or embarrassment. Staffs are happier and less prone to illness and hay fever, and enjoy a smoke-free workplace. Customers are more comfortable, so stay longer and spend more." The effectiveness of air cleaners for smoke removal has been proven in independent tests conducted by BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) and quoted in the ACMA dossier. In addition to smoke removal, the tests proved the ability of the air cleaner to reduce general particulate pollution. While air cleaners actively remove pollutants and supply the clean air over a large area, ventilators simply move air but do not clean it, while air conditioners cool air and adjust humidity without cleaning. ACMA's dossier explains that if normal air conditioning filters are fitted, they do not remove the very small particles found in smoke, and recycled air from an air conditioning system can spread smoke and odour throughout the building. It adds, "Air cleaners can be used as additional filtration to remove pollution from specific areas where smoke etc is localised. These areas can be physically separate rooms or possibly defined by the supply of clean air from grilles and air curtains to produce the same effect. The fresh air supplies the required ventilation, and the air cleaner supplies the localised 'spot' cleaning. Careful balancing of the supplied fresh air and the returned cleaned air from the air cleaner, with some extraction, can contain and remove the smoke in designated areas for smoking, with little or no spillage into non-smoking areas." ACMA's dossier summarises that air cleaners: Can keep the volume of air required to ventilate a space to the minimum recommended levels for the reduction of CO and CO2. The general requirements for ventilation are 8 l/s/person, when related to floor area, this equates to 8 l/s/m2 for standing personnel, 4 l/s/m2 for seated. Without air cleaners, to reduce the pollution generated by smoking, CIBSE recommends ventilation rates should be increased to levels of 16 to 43 l/s/person depending on the density of the cigarette smoke. Can reduce, or keep to a minimum, as the result of 1) the energy required to carry out any necessary treatment of the ventilation air. Minimises the level of ventilation and therefore possible draughts can be limited. Can be positioned to remove pollutants at or close to their source. Only require electrical power, they do not require ducting etc. for their installation. Are ideal for fitting to buildings where no other form of air treatment is available or would be difficult to install, although in some older buildings care must be taken ensure the effectiveness of the air cleaner is not limited by, for example, obstruction of the supplied clean air by beams etc. Will also help in the reduction of dust, pollens and general ambient particulate pollution introduced by simple ventilation systems.
Tottenham Hotspur FC sign exclusive supply agreement with Ransomes Jacobsen
Barclays Premier League football club, Tottenham Hotspur, has signed an exclusive supply agreement with Ransomes Jacobsen, the Ipswich-based turf equipment manufacturer. Ransomes Jacobsen is a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.
Under the terms of the agreement Ransomes Jacobsen will supply a wide range of turf maintenance equipment at both the White Hart Lane stadium and at the Spurs Lodge training ground in Chigwell.
Darren Baldwin, Grounds and Facilities Manager at the club said,
“We have taken delivery of two Jacobsen LF3800’s which we are using at Spurs Lodge and a Jacobsen TR3 for preparing the stadium pitch at White Hart Lane. They have been supplied by our local dealer, Ernest Doe, with whom we’ve had a very successful business relationship for many years and this was a significant reason behind the signing of this agreement. Excellent mowing equipment combined with exceptional service support is the key to any good partnership and that’s what we have here.”
Rupert Price, Ransomes Jacobsen’s UK and Ireland Sales Manager added,
“We’re absolutely delighted to have secured this agreement with Tottenham. Darren is very forthright in his comments about all aspects of groundsmanship, so to have him as an advocate of our equipment is very pleasing. I’m also highly delighted that the service levels from Ernest Doe were a factor in securing this deal; they are one of our flagship dealers, not only in the UK, but across Europe and this latest agreement reflects well on their organisation.”
Ransomes Jacobsen is a subsidiary of Textron Inc., an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.
Touch Control
Socomec Sicon UPS has expanded its ground-breaking Delphys MX range of UPS systems to include a version with a graphic touch screen that gives users access the full range of functions for effortless operation. The Delphys MX colour graphic touch screen provides a user friendly interface that gives safe operation of the UPS as well as a global overview of the system. Direct access to the UPS's main functions is through the mimic menu and includes: status and control measurements, battery testing and UPS operation, interactive processes for automatic startup and transfer to the maintenance by pass, event logs and battery discharges, UPS operation statistics and battery charge duration, the configuration menu for the JBUS/MODBUS connection, language, date and time as well as access code to controls and configurations. The MX is a user friendly, three phase UPS developed specifically for applications demanding higher reliability power protection. Available in sizes from 25OkVA to 500kVA (up to 3MVA in parallel), this compact new system has an extremely small footprint, operates without downgrading actual power and ha&been designed to supply applications with a capacitive power factor up to 0.9. Its input power factor of close to 1 reduces input power consumption by 20% - giving considerable cost savings and increased battery service life. An innovative charging regime, that uses an automatic self-adapting algorithm to respond to a battery's environmental conditions, reduces phenomena causing corrosion of the positive plates. Like all models in the Delphys range, the MX utilises a 'clean" rectifier to ensure an extremely low harmonic re-injection. It has a smaller footprint and integrates the latest generation of Digital Signal Processor (DSP), micro-controller and SMD electronic boards, reducing the number of components and improving Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF). The complete Delphys range is available in a wide range of configurations designed to meet every requirement in terms of security, availability and ease of expansion. The new system is compatible with Socomec's Static Transfer Switches (LTM and IT SWITCH) and easily supplies and manages non-linear loads without performance deviations.
Touch screen solution for generator giants
Saville Audio Visual has supplied an interactive digital communications solution for FG Wilson, a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. and the largest generator set manufacturer in the UK. A global leader in diesel and gas-powered generator sets, the company is one of the largest employers in Northern Ireland. FG Wilson approached Saville with an internal communication issue, as a large number of their 2500 workforce spend most of their time on the factory floor without regular access to computers. To be kept up to date with useful information on a large range of work-related subjects, these employees had to request relevant information or paperwork from their supervisor. A project team then came up with the idea of using touch-screen information sites to distribute useful information. The Saville solution was to create a network of touch screen kiosks spread across the company's three manufacturing sites in Northern Ireland. The kiosks are linked to a main control PC, where the software, designed by the creative team at Saville Linx Multimedia, enables the entire content to be constantly revised and updated. The central PC is operated by trained staff to update files instantaneously on all the kiosks via a secure log-in. In addition to content, the menus, screensaver, message board and text tickers which run along the bottom of all the screens can also be changed. The company can also view archives of all content files, showing when they were modified and who by, how many people are using the kiosks and how many times each section is being visited. Since installation, all factory floor operatives now have access to a wide variety of information covering corporate communications, employee welfare, training, health and safety. The clever design of the navigation means that employees can quickly and easily find information they need and, if required, order hard copies at the touch of a button. The kiosks have been designed to operate over long periods of time in a factory environment, and are able to withstand heavy continuous use. With a nationwide network of sixteen regional centres, Saville is the UK's largest professional AV company and a leading provider of audio visual equipment and services plus digital signage systems. The company has won eighteen national awards since 1999. For more information visit www.saville-av.com.
Touch sensitive vandal resistance access control
Sometimes access control readers are installed in vulnerable locations where vandalism is rife and readers are damaged, often beyond repair. This prevents users accessing the door, often for days at a time while replacements arrive, is frustrating and annoying to say the least. To help combat this problem Multilink Access Control Systems have developed several new vandal resistant readers, two proximity devices and one magnetic swipe. These elegant devices have been developed using proven reader technologies. Two units feature ceramic peizo keypads so they are touch sensitive with no moving parts or buttons, the result .. there's nothing to get jammed. Multilink's MVR1 HID compatible proximity reader, combined peizo touch sensitive keypad and vandal resist case, which is constructed from solid aluminium, making it practically impervious to attack. A proximity only version, the MVR2, is also available and uses the same technology as the MVR1. Where systems require magnetic card media, the MVR3 has a water resistant reader head and the same peizo keypad as the MVR1. Specifications: MVR1 Protocol: Wiegand, Dimensions: 120 x 90 x 20mm, Power: 12 VDC, Current: 150mA Environment: IP68; 100% RH, Read Range: 50mm - 75mm MVR2 Protocol: Wiegand, Dimensions: 115 x 70 x 20mm, Power: 12 VDC, Current: 150mA Environment: IP68; 100% RH, Read Range: 50mm - 75mm MVR3 Protocol: Clock & Data Track 2, Card encoding: 75bpi, Dimensions: 140 x 74 x 33mm Power: 12vdc, Current: 150Ma, Environment: IP67 - Temperature 20 to +60°C (non-condensing) Of course access control readers all need control systems and the Multilink DDS Toplock range of controllers are second to none in performance, reliability and price. Controllers can be standalone, networked or real time online and may be connected over a LAN or WAN. Amadeus 5 software controls the programming and functionality of the systems, even providing ID card printing options if required directly for the software, no bolt on programmes, get all the info from one place and produce stunning ID cards with you own logo. For complete systems Multilink can advise and design your access installation, including high quality locking devices and exit buttons etc.
Tough Barcode has record-breaking potential
Europe’s largest manufacturer of metal and plastic nameplates, labels and signs for facilities management applications is hoping that a recent £quarter million investment will put it in the record books. Investment into new machinery earlier this year enabled GSM Graphic Arts - part of the nationwide GSM Group - to launch Primodise, the UK’s first sub-surface digital printing technology. Following an overwhelming response to the initial Primodise launch, the Thirsk firm has invested in a second machine with bigger output capabilities to meet demand. The new machine allows GSM to print into anodised aluminium surfaces up to 1.5m by 0.95m. To demonstrate the new production capabilities, the firm has created what it hopes will be a record breaking sequential numbered barcode. Printed into an anodised aluminium surface using the Primodise process, the giant barcode measures 1.5m by 0.85m. Says GSM general manager, Rudy Pearce, “The record attempt is somewhat light-hearted, but it does illustrate the capabilities that Primodise affords. “We can customise every single job, sequentially if needs be, and the Primodise process - which involves opening up the pores of the aluminium substrate, applying digital print into the surface and re-sealing the pores - provides a full-colour, photo-quality image sealed into the aluminium substrate that is incredibly hardwearing; solvent, scuff and scratch-resistant. Combining the printing capabilities of Primodise with barcode scanning and data capture software from sister company GSM Printer and Label Systems enables Rudy and his team to deliver integrated data recording and tracking systems backed by comprehensive technical support. He says: “Because data is printed into - as opposed to onto - the surface of the aluminium, the resulting barcodes are incredibly hardwearing. They will also adhere to any surface using our extensive range of fastening systems - from holes and studs to a comprehensive range of adhesives.” “We’re already working with facilities and commercial security management providers to deliver cost-effective asset monitoring and tracking systems across a range of applications.”
Tough, Small And Lightweight Personal Multi-Gas Monitor For Harsh Environments
Extending the family of Tetra portable gas monitors, the lightweight Tetra:3 from Crowcon Detection Instruments combines extremely rugged design with small size and simple operation.
Designed for use in demanding industrial environments, including confined space work in the construction industry, the Tetra:3 has simple, single button operation which can be used with a gloved hand. Monitoring oxygen, toxic and flammable gases, the unit has a top mounted, backlit display showing all gas readings, diagnostics and battery life.
Despite its compact size and low weight (less than 300g), the Tetra:3 is very rugged. Its shatterproof housing with rubber over-moulding, provides extra shock and vibration protection, and giving it water and dust resistance to IP67.
If a hazard is detected, Tetra:3 gives rapid and effective warning with a powerful 95 dBA audible alarm, an extremely bright red/blue LED visual warning, and by vibrating. There are two levels of alarm, which can be set to have distinctive tones.
A lithium-ion battery provides over 18 hours continuous operation from a single charge, and there is a 30 day countdown warning of the calibration due date. The Tetra:3 comes standard with a stainless steel alligator pocket clip and an optional harness for chest mounting.
Tour Andover Controls recruit Ian Budd to UK Board
Former Saturo Controls development director Ian Budd has been appointed as business development/product sales director at Tour Andover Controls, a world leader in building automation, security systems and energy solutions. Ian joins Tour Andover Controls, recently formed from the merger of TAC and Andover Controls, after 22 years in the buildings controls industry. Following periods with the Metropolitan Police Chief Engineers Department and Barber-Colman Controls, Ian moved into controls commission management, where he oversaw the high profile Broadgate (City of London) and Vauxhall Cross (MI6) building control projects. During his 11 years with ABC / Saturo Controls, Ian held a variety of positions, which latterly included responsibility for all project sales and technical innovations. Since 1996, he has been involved with open systems, and has become a firm advocate of the benefits associated with open integrated control systems. Derek Duffill, managing director of Tour Andover Controls, comments: "Ian brings a wealth of industry experience and technical knowledge to Tour Andover Controls and represents a significant boost to our UK management team. Tour Andover Controls is committed to providing the highest value systems and services to our customers, and with open systems representing the core of our technical capability, Ian's experience in this area will prove invaluable." Ian Budd comments: "Following the merger of Andover Controls and TAC last year, I firmly believe that Tour Andover Controls today represents the best in the building controls industry and I look forward to taking this already strong company forwards, finding new and innovative solutions to meet and anticipate all our customers' needs and continue to push the boundaries of what the industry currently offers."
Towcester Racecourse invest in CCTV
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Lord Hesketh's private estate, the Northamptonshire racecourse is one of the most picturesque racing venues in the country. The £1.7m investment in the state of the art new stables is part of an ongoing programme to upgrade the facilities for owners, trainers and visitors. The CCTV system has been designed to ensure maximum security in and around the stables and as such meets the new standards of the Jockey Club’s anti-doping policy. Towcester is in fact the first racecourse in the UK to comply with Jockey Club’s latest requirements. Commenting on the installation of the CCTV system, Bob Bowden, Deputy Chairman of Towcester Racecourse said: “We are very pleased with the service provided by Sanyo. Before deciding on the exact equipments to recommend to us, they carried out night time tests with various cameras. They were able to subsequently show us a recording of the kind of images we could expect, which were of a very high quality.” The CCTV system comprises of nine Sanyo VCC-ZM300P zoom cameras. The ZM300P is a 520 TV lines camera with in built motion detection. When movement is detected the camera zooms into the cause of the alarm. The images from the cameras are recorded onto a Sanyo DSR-3016P 520 TV lines digital video recorder. Combining a 520 TV lines camera with a DVR of the same high resolution capabilities ensures that high quality video recordings of any incidents can be captured and stored for evidence purposes. Also included as part of the CTV system are two Sanyo VCC-6592P 520TV lines low light colour cameras which can produce high quality images when illumination is as low as 0.3 lux and completing the product line up is a Sanyo 19” hi-res colour video monitor.
Tower 42 adds digital CCTV recording suite
Tower 42, the multi-tenanted skyscraper that is the City of London's tallest building, is the latest customer to receive a digital CCTV conversion from its integrated, corporate security systems provider Bell Security. The landmark site's VCR/multiplexer installation has been replaced by a digital recording suite embracing hard- and software elements. This includes five 600Gb, nine-input DVR units, with CD/RW write capabilities and new monitors. The system now possesses 40-plus days of image archive storage capacity and permits senior secu