"fire protection"

Witley Court is a ruined Italianate mansion built in the seventeenth century and expanded in the early nineteenth century by the Architect John Nash. In 1937 a major accidental fire broke out and whilst the building is in ruins, it is Grade I listed and in the care of English Heritage who restored the formal gardens and fountains. Bolton Gate were engaged to design and manufacture gates replacement gates to provide night-time security with special folding bottom tracks to leave the floor surface intact and installed with great care to maintain the building’s status.

Promat UK has worked with Doorset Technology to help deliver a safe environment for a specialist healthcare facility. The new Ribblemere Unit at the Chorley and South Ribble District General Hospital, provides vitally important care for women experiencing severe mental health in the perinatal period. PYROSEC® 19 was chosen for its outstanding performance characteristics. It is a modified toughened, fire/physical attack resistant glass. With full transparency, the dual purpose nature of the glass makes it ideal for use in public sector environments, such as hospitals, social and mental health facilities, as well as police stations and custodial buildings.

Ascent anchor posts were chosen to protect workers accessing the roof of the UK's highest building - the mountain café on the summit of Hafod Eryri (Mount Snowdon) at the heart of the Snowdonia National Park and Wales highest mountain at 1085m above sea level. The Ascent Anchor posts form the structural anchors to secure the Latchway mansafe guided type fall arrest system to the structure of the granite & oak clad building.

Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro is the biggest hospital in Cornwall. The corridor needed updating quickly and required a durable solution to withstand high footfall and wheeled traffic in the area. Altro Cantata adhesive-free flooring was combined with Altro Fortis Titanium wall protection.

Port Glasgow Shared Campus SchoolArchitect: Ingenium Archial ArchitectsInstaller: MoorconProduct: Shiluvit by OranitOfficially opened Spring term 2014 the Port Glasgow Shared Campus School is the first project of its kind in Scotland.The new school building houses both Port Glasgow High School and St Stephens High, as well as sharing its ample resources with the Craigmarloch Additional Support Needs School.500m2 of ‘Shiluvit’ panels in Nordic Pine were used across the atrium and second floor corridors of the new shared campus in Glasgow.The product was chosen for both its excellent fire-retardant properties as well as the brilliant acoustic protection it provides against spaces like this which would otherwise be affected by high levels of sound reverberation.

Comprehensive training facilities that show the most innovative technologies for fire safety, particularly safe evacuation.

All apartments are accessed at the rear of the building via stairs and walkways and the existing asphalt walkway surfaces had blistered, causing various leaks and creating a trip hazard for residents. There was an urgent requirement to carry out the walkway refurbishment while the building remained fully occupied and with minimal disruption for occupants. The building’s flat roof had also reached the end of its service life, requiring a refurbishment to protect the apartments from water ingress.

THE PROJECTLondon City Island is a high-end residential and commercial neighbourhood development that takes inspiration from the very best of global metropolitan communities; combining bold architecture and pioneering urban design.The development is located in an extremely well-connected site between the financial might of Canary Wharf and trendy East London. London City Island is home to 1600 residential properties, 20,000 square metres of commercial office space, cafes, shops, restaurants and cultural facilities; offering something for everyone. We are once again delighted to be involved within this vibrant new and exciting site.THE PRODUCTThe London City Island development is split over a number of differences phases and blocks, with each development having a slightly different requirement and specification for mailboxes. A number of different mailbox models were used on the project, to match the different design finishes of each phase of the development.Our horizontal fire rated 2 mailboxes were used on two phases where there was a specific requirement for a post box to meet a Class 0 Part 22 1 hour integrity only fire rating. The first bank of mailboxes are wall recessed and fitted with a surrounding trim to provide the mailboxes with a clean finish from the mailbox to the installation wall. This bank of mailboxes were assembled into a configuration of 9 high x 9 wide prior to despatch, allowing easy installation once on site. The mailboxes have been finished in a non-standard colour (D2525-Y2217 matt) and engraved on the inward-sprung flap with an apartment number in a contrasting jet black colour.The second bank of fire rated 2 mailboxes also conformed to Part 22 fire rating standards. This bank was configured into a bank of 4 high x 6 wide mailboxes, finished in a standard colour chosen from the RAL colour chart and engraved in a contrasting white engraving on the inward-sprung flap.The third bank of mailboxes is located in a dedicated mailroom, wall recessed to maximise room for residents and mail delivery personnel to use the mailboxes. As is common practice with all wall recessed mailboxes, these banks of post boxes have also been fitted with a surrounding trim, ensuring the highest finish quality is achieved on the development.Also used on the project were the MODA mailboxes in the horizontal orientation with a width of 260mm. The MODA mailbox is popular with clients requiring a versatile and attractive product particularly useful for multi-coloured and multi-sized arrangements. This phase of the London City Island development shows how the MODA mailbox can be used in a more straightforward manner with a classic bank of wall recessed mailboxes finish in a single colour. Each mailbox has been engraving on the opening flap, infilled in a contrasting silver colour finish.All mailboxes on this development are in front / out front, allowing for mail to delivered and retrieved through the front face.

Yeoman Shield protection panels have been a great success at Springwell School in Hartlepool. The environment is safe, nurturing and stimulating, so that every child reaches their full potential with the help of Yeoman Shield products.Yeoman Shield protection panels have been an un-mitigating success at Springwell School in Hartlepool.The school caters for children aged 3 to 11 years who have a broad range of specialist needs and the vibrant and busy spaces can suffer from impact damage caused by the everyday activities of the students and staff.To counteract such damage and to keep the classroom and communal areas looking clean and welcoming the school have previously utilized Yeoman Shield FalmouthEx Wall and Door Protection Panels.Site Manager, Dean Henson commented “We already have Yeoman Shield protection panels on walls and doors in areas around the school, including the hall which can be used for many things ranging from a dining hall to activities hall. The panels have been in place for around 5 to 6 years and still look as good as new.”Having proved to be long lasting and durable the school decided to bring Yeoman Shield installers back during the February half term to continue the wall protection panels throughout corridors.Yeoman Shield 2.0mm thick FalmouthEx protection panels were supplied on this occasion in attractive mid grey and lilac colours with the addition of a waved top giving a decorative feel to the walls.Manufactured from a non- porous rigid PVCu the protection panels are not only easy to clean but are inherently hygienic as they do not promote the growth of bacteria or mould.As recognised by Springwell School the implementation of wall and door protection systems can reduce the amount of time and money spent on the repair and re-decoration of wall and doors throughout the buildings, extending the lifecycle of the interior decor.

Developer Manchester Life is transforming the residential market in the city of Manchester and Senior Architectural Systems is proud to have partnered with them to create a number of apartment schemes including Cotton Field Wharf, Weavers Quay and New Little Mill. Lampwick Quay is the fourth and most recent project to have been undertaken by Senior as part of this successful repeat business relationship.Located in Manchester’s thriving new community in Ancoats, the new Lampwick Quay development comprises 213 apartments across three blocks of five, six and ten-storeys, with ground floor retail units and communal facilities including a gym and residents club room. A mix of Senior’s aluminium windows, commercial doors and curtain wall solutions have been used extensively throughout the development and installed by supply chain partner Aire Valley Architectural Aluminium for main contractor John Sisk & Son Ltd.To help reduce heat loss and energy costs, Senior’s low U value and Part L compliant PURe® aluminium casement windows have been installed to each of the apartments to create a comfortable living space. The stylish window system also provides the perfect frame for the development’s views of Manchester’s New Islington Marina.Energy-efficiency has also been addressed in the communal, retail and ground floor areas through the use of Senior’s thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system which maximises the controlled use of use of natural light.To meet the scheme’s stringent safety and security requirements, Senior’s robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors were installed to the main entrance and exit points. The SPW501 commercial door system is ideally suited to high pedestrian use and meets the requirements of Secured By Design. Key elements of the fenestration package have also been designed to work as part of the scheme’s overall passive fire protection strategy, with the use of Senior’s SPW600 automatic opening ventilation (AOV) aluminium windows in the communal areas and stairwells. Although visually similar to Senior’s popular SPW600 system, these AOV windows are fitted with a smart actuator which allows for quick and automatic ventilation in the event of a fire, helping to remove smoke from the air.The development’s low pitch sawtooth roof design pays homage the area’s industrial heritage, with the slim aluminium frames of the fenestration package further complementing the main façade of zinc cladding, brick and coloured panels. Initially designed by CallisonRTKL, the Lampwick Quay development was delivered by jmarchitects.

This Case Study is about a family run busy in Bristol wanting to re-new the floor outside the shop and also include their company logo.

Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School based in Kingstanding, just outside Birmingham, took advantage of a quieter time, with the majority of pupils home schooling, to undertake interior wall protection work with Yeoman Shield. Catering for 700 pupils aged 11- 16 the school has corridors and break-out areas throughout the school where walls and corners especially are exposed to marking and impact damage caused by the everyday movement of pupils, staff and equipment.The damage not only detracts from the smart image the school strives to up hold in all areas, but also becomes a strain on the maintenance budget with constant requirements of repair and redecoration. With the aim to reduce such damage and expenditure, after research and receiving samples, Head Teacher, Robert Swanwick, contacted Yeoman Shield to supply and carry out the installation of a complete wall protection system.Following strict Covid guidelines throughout the process, Yeoman Shield’s directly employed fixing operatives installed Yeoman Shield FalmouthEx Wall Protection Panels, (after boarding-out some of the brickwork to provide an even finish), at 1250 mm high to corridor and dining areas in a Dusty Grey colour to complement artwork decoration applied to the upper walls.Staircase walls were also fitted with the wall protection panels with the addition of Yeoman Shield 50 mm Dia. Guardian Handrail in Timber with attractive Stainless Steel accessories.Vulnerable wall corners were protected with 75 x 75 mm corner protection in a matching colour and Yeoman Shield 110 mm White PVCu cover over a solid timber core skirting was added.This full Yeoman Shield wall protection system will abolish the future need for repainting walls and skirting with cleaning being the only maintenance required, reducing budgets spends. The rigid PVCu material that Yeoman Shield products are manufactured from are easy to clean, do not promote the growth of bacteria or mould and are not affected by the use of commercial cleaners, assisting in the up keep of high hygiene standards.Mr Swanwick commented “the quality of the product is exceptional. It has been installed for six months in some places and shows no signs of wear or tear yet. I also cannot speak highly enough of the professionalism of the installation teams, who understand the challenges of working in a school environment and get on with things quietly and efficiently. I am a very happy customer.”For more information on how installing wall & door protection products can help save on building maintenance and help keep interiors looking smart and clean get in contact on 0113 279 5854, info@yeomanshield.com or go to www.yeomanshield.com

A client with a strong reputation for sustainable construction needed a flood defence system to protect a large substation in Croydon.UK Power Networks and ClancyUK Power Networks is responsible for electricity distribution and maintenance across London, the southeast and east of England. Clancy contracts for UK Power Networks refurbishing substations. Clancy was founded in 1958 and is now one of the largest privately owned construction firms in the UK. Its vision is to be “trusted to deliver smarter, greener infrastructure brilliantly.”The challengeClancy managed construction and implementation of the Andel flood defence system for UK Power Networks.Location: the substation is located within a flood risk area and is critical for maintaining electricity supply to thousands of homes and businesses.Sustainable: they wanted an environmentallyfriendly approach in line with their commitment to sustainability.Disruption: the aim was to protect transformers from flooding to maintain reliable electricity supplies to homes and businesses.Protection: they needed to protect the transformers from flooding to maintain network resilience.Inconvenience: they wanted a solution that would cause minimum disruption to the site allowing for continuity of service.Cost: they needed a cost-effective solution compared to the costs normally associated with traditional flood defences.The solution Andel FloodWall and Andel FloodBlox® Andel FloodWall is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternative for perimeter flood defence and is suited to commercial, residential, new build and retrofit installations. Panels and posts are constructed from robust, 100% recycled, nonporous, post-industrial plastic waste.This means the substation now has:A sustainable, cost-effective and environmentallyfriendly system compared to traditional flood defence systems.A flood defence system with a lower carbon footprint compared to an all-concrete construction.A modular solution that was easy to transport and speedy to assemble on site with minimum disruption.A robust perimeter flood defence designed and tested to meet the requirements of British Standard BS 851188-1:2019 for Flood resistance products.Andel FloodBlox® is an easy-to-use, lightweight, demountable flood barrier for all types of openings such as gates, house doors, patio doors, garage doors, warehouse and factory doors as well as creating easy access within a perimeter flood defence wall.This means the substation now has:A lightweight, easy-to-use demountable flood barrier allowing easy access to the bund.Proven technology that uses the natural pressure and weight of floodwater to create a watertight seal.The result Sustainable: Panels and posts are constructed from 100% recycled, post-industrial plastic waste, reducing the carbon footprint compared to traditional allconcrete flood defences.Convenient: A modular, easy-to-assemble system causing minimal disruption to on-site operations as no heavy machinery was required.Effective: FloodWall and FloodBlox® provide a robust, tried and tested flood defence solution allowing easy access to protected areas.Cost: The modular and flexible system reduced installation time and delivered a cost-effective solution.Excellent communication: The on-site Andel team worked closely with the client, ensuring open and constructive dialogue with regular updates on progress and timescales.Added value: The project also included installation of Andel’s market-leading BundGuard® units, a bund dewatering solution previously supplied to the client and contractor on other sites.What the customer said;We made the right choice working with Andel on the UK Power Networks Croydon project. Andel has worked with Clancy before providing pollution prevention products and maintenance services for the electrical distribution sector.As a safeguard against the increasing risk of flooding, Andel were able to provide a sustainable and cost-effective solution for the Croydon substation, protecting UK Power Networks transformers from the risk of future flooding.Craig Aust, Project Manager, ClancyIt was great to work with Clancy on the UK Power Networks Flood Defence project at Croydon Substation. We were tasked with delivering a robust, reliable and environmentally sustainable solution to protect the transformers on site from the risk of flooding. Working closely with Clancy Project Manager, Craig Aust, we were able to navigate the project to deliver a solution that sat in line with their values of delivering quality and sustainable practices. We are delighted to have successfully delivered a flood defence system that ensures the transformers are protected from the ever-increasing risk of flooding. 

Among many similar new-build projects completed or underway across the country, non-combustible Rockpanel is providing stunning facades for this eye-catching, contemporary urban living in Bracknell, Berkshire, while meeting the stringent regulations regarding fire-safety in high-rise residential structures.Consisting of 242 apartments divided across two distinct angular blocks of up to 11 storeys, this residential scheme promotes itself as heralding a new era in luxury living for the region. The wedge shaped blocks are placed at angles to create a broad, elegant thoroughfare where seating invites residents and others to linger and enjoy the landscaped surroundings. Stepped elevations allow for generous terraces to one block while the acute angle formed on another results in striking feature balconies. The mix of sleek white render contrasts well with the Rockpanel Woods facades which add a natural, organic warmth. Meeting challenges to create a landmark development The Building Design Group were architects for the project. With offices in Birmingham and Tamworth, BDG has evolved from its inception more than 45 years ago, in to a dynamic, forward thinking practice. Describing the development, they said, “BDG were appointed following a successful planning process to develop this project further to tender stage and beyond. The site itself presented numerous challenges in terms both of access and existing constraints located above and below ground. However, we believe we succeeded in progressing the technical design to the extent that our client's aspirations could be met, both in terms of cost and the desire to establish a landmark development for the future.”Vascroft Contractors Ltd were main contractors for the development. The London-based firm has grown from its founding in the 1970 by two brothers, into a thriving concern made up of four divisions working on projects across all major building sectors. Around 2500sqm of facades were installed at Grand Exchange, using a mix of Rockpanel Alder and Slate Oak surface designs from the manufacturer’s super realistic Woods range, along with RAL 2010 colour-matched deep orange accent panels. Versatile, resilient and sustainable design freedom Lightweight and highly versatile, and without the need for additional edge sealing, Rockpanel can be curved, perforated, engraved or routed, and will last for decades with minimal maintenance. Protect Plus further protects the panel surface from everyday wear and tear. The facades deliver outstanding performance characteristics which include fire safety, supreme durability, weather, temperature and UV. And when the time comes for a Rockpanel facade to be replaced, in fifty years or more, the removed panels can be recycled into new boards with no loss of quality. Versatile, resilient and sustainable design freedom Lightweight and highly versatile, and without the need for additional edge sealing, Rockpanel can be curved, perforated, engraved or routed, and will last for decades with minimal maintenance. Protect Plus further protects the panel surface from everyday wear and tear. The facades deliver outstanding performance characteristics which include fire safety, supreme durability, weather, temperature and UV. And when the time comes for a Rockpanel facade to be replaced, in fifty years or more, the removed panels can be recycled into new boards with no loss of quality. Stoneguard Managing Director, Nic Constantinou, spoke about the project, “Vascroft approached us early on in order to begin the design process and ensure the smooth delivery of panels throughout the build. The 11mm Rockpanel FX-Xtra System specified by the architect, with grooves at 300mm centres achieving the effect of wood planks perfectly, meeting the aesthetic requirement for the project, while offering the long-term performance and low maintenance advantages of Rockpanel. Although the majority of panels were cut off-site, the flexibility of Rockpanel meant the more complicated architectural features of the build could be cut to size on site easily. The lightweight nature of the material ensured it could be distributed swiftly around the complex shaped build.” The ultimate facade systemThe facades were fixed to a concrete frame with bespoke Protec SFS system infill, which Stoneguard design and manufacture themselves. The project also utilised FSI cavity barriers and ROCKWOOL Duo Slab® insulation, which offers great thermal and acoustic values and achieves European fire class A1. Combined with Rockpanel A2 and an aluminium or steel substructure it fulfils the most rigid fire safety requirements and is required in achieving A2-s1,d0 Euroclass rating to secure the ultimate protection and safety for the building’s users.Rockpanel facade panels and ROCKWOOL insulation products share common characteristics, including their inherent sustainability and non-combustibility, which is due to the naturally occurring and replenishing volcanic rock used in the manufacture of the stone wool that forms their core. Grand Exchange Building Manager, Adam Spiers, “I must commend the design team for their outstanding work on the facades of the building. The exterior looks stunning. The attention to detail and the architectural finesse are truly commendable. The residents are exceptionally pleased with both the building and its exterior. Their positive response reaffirms our belief that the Grand Exchange has not only met but exceeded expectations in terms of design and functionality.”Rockpanel offers specifiers design freedom, enabling virtually unlimited colour matching and an unrivalled range of surface design finishes, from the super-realistic natural Woods used at the Grand Exchange, through Metals and Stones collections to specialist ranges including unique, transformative Chameleon, which changes hue depending on the way light hits its surface and the angle of view. 

Being positioned along The Highway, a major east-west route into central London, Ensign Court is a 14-storey high-rise build that symbolises the beginning of London’s heart, welcoming people into its urban core and existing as an important representation of its character.With this metropolitan embodiment in mind, the development is a statement of modernity and urbanity, requiring contemporary designs and cutting-edge materials to establish a framework of quality and character, to accompany its remarkable location.Project BreakdownHaving been previously occupied by commercial space, Ensign Court was rebuilt to offer 65 residential units designed to accommodate for affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale, as well as 7 units of new commercial space on the ground floor. To support its modern appeal, the project was intended for Class A use and therefore required an effective non-combustible balcony solution that would enhance its stylish aesthetic and ensure durability for the safety of its residents.The SolutionBeing compliant with the latest fire safety law, Hyperion Aluminium 145 Pro-Grip aluminium decking was used to furnish the 520 m² of balcony and terrace areas on this build, complete with fire-rated edging, joists, pedestals and screws. This beautifully engineered A2 fire-rated aluminium decking board was used in the colour Dusty Grey, perfectly fitting the contemporary aesthetic of the Ensign Court build with elegance, simplicity and style. With market-leading value and Qualicoat certified power coating, this non-combustible decking system was the ideal addition to this exquisite development, offering assured safety, high slip resistance and refined aesthetics.EnviroBuild will continue to push towards the ever-improving innovation of non-combustible systems, and strive to lead the rise of safer, fire-rated solutions for both commercial and residential construction.Project DetailsSize: 520 m²Product: Dusty Grey Hyperion 145 Pro-Grip, MESA Non-combustible Pedestals, MESA Aluminium Joists, Aluminium Edging, MESA Protective Membranes, Screws, FastenersContractor: ENGIEArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonDeveloper: L&QLocation: London

Bluebell Park extra care development in Huyton, Merseyside, was designed to be used by residents who could be living with Dementia or other impactful health conditions. Adexon were delighted to work in conjunction with United Living and PRP to provide a solution which gave staff, residents and the emergency services 60 minutes of guaranteed fire escape time while still allowing the use of design features that increased natural light within the building.

THE PROJECTPoplar Riverside is an exciting new regeneration project located on the picturesque banks of the River Lea in East London. This modern development offers a diverse collection of luxurious riverside apartments, including studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units available for both private rentals and shared accommodation. Residents are provided with their own private outdoor spaces and access to a beautifully landscaped 2.5-acre riverside park, enhancing the overall living experience with a touch of nature and serenity.To complement the high-end design and architectural vision of Poplar Riverside, JA Stott Carpentry Limited and St William enlisted The Safety Letterbox Company to create a bespoke mailbox system. Our task was to design and supply mailboxes that not only met the practical needs of the residents but also seamlessly integrated with the development’s aesthetic and contributed to the overall elegance and functionality of the space. This project underscored the importance of marrying functionality with design excellence to enhance the appeal and value of the development.THE CHALLENGEThe client presented us with the complex task of designing a fully bespoke mailbox system that would perfectly complement the luxurious aesthetic of Poplar Riverside’s main entrance and lobby area. This required creating custom-made cladding for the internal supports and ensuring all fixings were hidden to achieve a seamless, polished finish. The goal was to integrate the mailbox system flawlessly into the sophisticated design of the main entrance, maintaining the architectural integrity and visual appeal.In addition to the main lobby, the project required a secondary mailbox design for the stairwell areas. These mailboxes needed to be fire-rated to meet stringent safety standards, while still featuring custom cladding and stands that aligned with the overall design theme. This presented a unique challenge of balancing high safety requirements with the need for aesthetic cohesion.OUR SOLUTIONTo address the unique challenges of the Poplar Riverside development, we collaborated closely with both the client’s design team and our own R&D department to craft a mailbox solution that seamlessly integrated with the project’s sophisticated aesthetic while meeting rigorous safety standards. This partnership was crucial in developing innovative solutions that addressed both the functional and visual aspects of the project.For the main entrance and lobby area, we chose our MODA mailbox system. The MODA range was selected for its contemporary design and premium finishes, which align perfectly with the luxurious nature of Poplar Riverside. MODA mailboxes offer a sleek and stylish appearance with customisable options that allowed us to incorporate custom-made cladding, ensuring a seamless integration into the building’s elegant design. This system features:Modular Design: Allowing for a flexible and tailored installation that fits the precise dimensions and design requirements of the lobby area.High-Quality Finishes: Available in various materials and colours to match the architectural vision, ensuring that the mailboxes contribute to the overall aesthetic harmony of the space.User-Friendly Features: Including easy access and secure compartments, enhancing convenience for residents while maintaining the stylish look of the development.For the stairwell areas, which required compliance with stringent fire safety regulations, we selected our Fire Rated 2 mailboxes. These mailboxes are specifically designed to meet the highest safety standards, featuring:2-Hour Fire Rating: Complying with BS EN 1363-1:2019 industry regulations, ensuring that the mailboxes provide critical fire protection in the building’s escape routes.Robust Construction: With fire-resistant materials and design to prevent the spread of fire, enhancing the overall safety of the building for residents.Custom Cladding: To match the aesthetic requirements of the stairwell areas, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding design while providing the necessary safety features.Throughout the project, our team conducted rigorous testing and refinement to ensure that both the MODA and Fire Rated 2 mailboxes not only met all design and safety specifications but also exceeded the client’s expectations for quality and elegance. The result is a bespoke mailbox system that enhances the functionality and visual appeal of Poplar Riverside, aligning with the development’s high standards and architectural vision.THE BENEFITSFor the Client:Enhanced Aesthetic Integration: The bespoke MODA mailboxes, with their custom cladding and sleek design, seamlessly blend with the luxurious aesthetic of Poplar Riverside, elevating the overall visual appeal of the main entrance and lobby area.High Safety Compliance: The Fire Rated 2 mailboxes provide a 2-hour fire rating, complying with BS EN 1363-1:2019 industry regulations. This ensures that the development meets the highest safety standards, particularly in critical escape routes like the stairwells.Client Satisfaction: The successful implementation of both the MODA and Fire Rated 2 mailboxes not only fulfilled but exceeded the client’s expectations, reinforcing trust and satisfaction with The Safety Letterbox Company.For the Residents:Luxurious Living Environment: The mailboxes contribute to the overall high-end feel of the development, offering residents a visually pleasing and sophisticated entrance experience.Convenience and Accessibility: With user-friendly features, the mailboxes offer easy access and secure compartments, making the process of retrieving mail both convenient and efficient for residents.Enhanced Living Experience: The combination of safety, convenience, and aesthetic appeal provided by the bespoke mailbox system enhances the overall living experience at Poplar Riverside, contributing to a desirable and comfortable residential environment.Through the close collaboration with the client’s design team and our own R&D department, The Safety Letterbox Company delivered a tailored solution that exceeded expectations. The result is a mailbox system that enhances both the visual appeal and functional safety of Poplar Riverside, reflecting the project’s commitment to quality and excellence. By marrying elegant design with practical safety features, we have contributed to a development that not only offers a premium living environment but also upholds the highest standards of security and design integrity. This project highlights our dedication to providing innovative, high-quality solutions that elevate residential developments and enrich the living experience for all residents.

Specifiers looking to minimise maintenance requirements yet maximise cleanliness need look no further than Crown Trade’s innovative Clean Extreme Anti-Bacterial Scrubbable Matt. Clean Extreme Anti-Bacterial Scrubbable Matt is enhanced through the use of the independently tested SteriTouch® silver ion technology which not only inhibits the growth of any bacteria that comes into contact with the surface, but also prevents bacteria from multiplying. Unlike other anti-bacterial paints that can be prone to the problem of leaching, the ‘built-in’ silver ion protection can’t be washed off no matter how many times the surface is scrubbed clean.

Patalab architects were commissioned to convert an intriguing building off Acton High Street in the London Borough of Ealing into a new certified school for children with Special Education Needs and one with a special focus on pupils with severe autism. Snowflake School is an Ofsted-outstanding teaching environment in a building which was originally a purpose-built hall for the Salvation Army before being turned into an animation studio. Inserted steelwork mezzanines over a herringbone-floored hall contributed to a mishmash of conversions. Given the nature of the school and the links between autism and noise sensitivity, Troldtekt’s acoustic wood wool panelling was specified to minimise sound reverberation and to promote a healthy sound environment and calmness.Project Architect Sophie Fuller explains “The double-height central space works really well as the school’s main hall. In order to minimise sound reverberation, we chose to clad the upper half in acoustic panelling made from wood wool. The texture and neutral colour of the panelling also help to make this tall space feel friendlier and warmer.” Following design guidelines, as well as meeting fire protection and safety requirements, meant many aspects of the building’s history had to be covered although glimpses remain. For example, the original parquet floor used in the assembly hall, original metal handrails protruding from new plywood balustrades and relocated doors as internal windows. At the same time, ramps and a platform stair lift have been added to create accessibility. Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept, Troldtekt’s natural and inherently sustainable panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED ratings. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, they offer high durability and low cost lifecycle performance. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour.

The London Science Museum is one of London’s major tourist attractions, attracting 3.3 million visitors annually. Now using, interior glass balustrade. The museums’ collections comprise of both permanent and temporary exhibits. So, when they design each exhibit, they must consider how easy it is to change and adapt the space for any new collections. Displays can be created from many things, including an interior glass balustrade. The Science Museum aims to provide inspiring exhibitions to its visitors. The museum approached Pure Vista while looking for a barrier to protect an extremely valuable exhibit, an original prototype of the Brougham carriage. They required an interior glass balustrade in this London location, that was secure enough to prevent visitors from touching the exhibit but didn’t spoil the viewing opportunities. This also needed to be easy to move and adapt. Knowing that Pure Vista specialise in easy-to-adjust glass balustrade for both interior and exterior projects, they approached us for a solution.Pure Vista proposed a POSIglaze solution for this project.The force loading required for interior light-commercial balustrade is 1.50kN, according to UK building regulations. Which can be achieved with POSIglaze using the right type of glass (19mm or 21.5mm laminate SentryGlas). The real benefit of POSIglaze is that it’s the most adjustable balustrade system on the market, all thanks to our patented screw-clamp technology. This meant that the museum could easily remove a panel of glass in order to move exhibits in and out of this space. The adjustment of this system doesn’t require special skills or tools. 

Castell High School in Flintshire supplies co-education to 1300+ students promoting strong levels of well-being.The original school building was established in 1958 and as the student intake grew extensions were built in 1974 and 1992 to accommodate.2021 saw the latest extension, Y Celtec building, completed. Problems soon became apparent with the walls within the new area being clean and damage free.The school’s Site supervisor, Paul Muncey explained “Keeping the white painted walls clean was becoming a nightmare for our cleaning team and within 12 months of the building coming into use the walls along the corridors required repainting.”Business Manager Emma Manning had come across Yeoman Shield wall protection solutions in a previous position and got in touch with regards to protecting the new building’s wall before the impact damage became too great.Yeoman Shield directly employed fixing operatives installed Mid-Grey FalmouthEx, 2500 x 1250 mm wall protection panels along the corridor walls.The panels once in place not only protect from damage but are easy to clean down and will prove over the years to reduce repair and maintenance costs. They also look good sustaining a bright, clean, and welcoming environment for staff and pupils at all times.Paul Muncey concluded, “I was very pleased with the quality of work provided by the Yeoman Shield installers who showed consideration to the environment that they were working in.”

Jacksons' Barbican Imperial vertical bar railings and double and single leaf gates were installed around the Catholic church with its freestanding bell frame - a significant local landmark. The fencing enhances demarcation provided by the existing shrubs, hedges, and low brick piers, and adds security.

A new gem has taken its place in the architectural playground that is Salford Quays in Manchester. Between the towers of MediaCityUK and Michael Wilford’s The Lowry, sits a small but perfectly formed gold parcel – a new home for The Alchemist, an innovative cocktail bar and restaurant.

Location: LondonMain Contractor: Berkeley GroupLocated on the banks of the River Lea, Poplar Riverside by Berkeley Group is set to become one of East London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.It will feature over 2,800 new homes, a new 2.5 acre park and world-class resident facilities, including a commercial gym, a relaxing spa, and a public piazza for community events.As part of the façade package, OCL Façades installed the OBEX Class B Interface Sealing Membrane system, as specified for this project.Landmark Brickwork Ltd also installed the same system, namely 0500FR Class B Interface Sealing Membrane, complete with 0771FR Class B Paste Adhesive, ensuring that this development has the ultimate fully compliant, fully tested, façade interface sealing system.New Apartments: 2700Riverside Park: 2.5 AcresResidents Facilities: 16,000 Square Feet

Location: BirminghamMain Contractor: WinvicBuilt on the former Kent Street Swimming Baths site in central Birmingham, the development will be home to four residential blocks, providing a total of 406 purpose-built apartments.The site once housed Kent Street Baths which opened in 1851 and was subsequently heavily damaged in the Second World War bombing of Birmingham.OBEX supplied the CORTEX 0270FR Score'N'Snap Cement Board system, ensuring the project had a robust, durable cement-based sheathing board, but without the considerable cost of traditional cutting equipment and dust extraction.Purpose-built apartments: 406Blocks: 4Storeys: 18

Location: StockportMain Contractor: Willmott DixonStockport Interchange is a mixed-use development that will create a new state-of-the-art transport interchange, a two-acre town centre park and 196 new, high-quality residential apartments.The multi-million-pound project includes a rooftop park along with cycle paths and a footbridge linking the development with the town’s famous railway station.OBEX CORTEX 0270FR Score'N'Snap Cement Board system was specified, ensuring the project had a robust, durable, cement-based sheathing board, but without the considerable cost of traditional cutting equipment and dust extraction.Residential Apartments: 196Rooftop Park: 2 Acres

St Pancras International is a key London interchange and the very definition of a ‘destination station’. Managed by Network Rail High Speed Ltd this buzzing regional, national and international travel hub has been part of Britain's railways heritage for the better part of 150 years.Designed by William Barlow in 1863, it gained instant fame for its “Barlow Shed” train shed arch that spans 73 metres and is over 30 metres high at its apex; at the time, the largest enclosed space in the world. The Grade 1 listed red brick Gothic landmark façade fronting the station was the result of an architectural competition in 1865 and became the Midland Grand Hotel. In 1935, the hotel was closed and the building became railway offices, renamed as the St Pancras Chambers.One of the largest transport hubs in Europe, St Pancras International now has 13 platforms, six of which are around one kilometre long and serve the international Eurostar services. The station also incorporates 47 retail outlets and designer boutiques, plus stylish Eurostar arrivals and departure lounges, and a further ten shops on the station platform level. It also boasts a daily farmers' market and, at 90 metres, the longest champagne bar in Europe. However, thanks to careful attention to detail and a sensitive understanding of the architectural importance of the National Heritage building, St Pancras International remains one of the greatest Victorian buildings in London.Recently named one of the UK's most used stations with around 50 million people visiting the station each year for travel and retail experiences, safety of staff and passengers is of the highest importance.Following a site safety upgrade, the Eurostar terminus at St Pancras International in London bristles with the latest high-performance fire detection and alarm technology, including no fewer than 5,000 Hochiki ESP – Enhanced System Protocol – analogue addressable devices, installed throughout the site. A variety of Hochiki devices were selected, each chosen for its proven ability to combat fire risks in the huge multi-activity station. They included optical smoke sensors for back office and main passenger concourse areas; multi-sensors for more challenging environments such as plant rooms and workshops; heat detectors in kitchens and toilets; audio visual devices and base sounder beacons.They are all automatically re-calibrated every 24 hours to compensate for any environmental contamination and to ensure that they continue to operate reliably at the specified sensitivity. Indeed, a key factor cited by the installer for the decision to opt for the Hochiki solution was the flexibility of the devices to be compatible with other products already installed. For example, Hochiki's ESP protocol devices are configured to share system information and event details on a highly fault-tolerant secure network.The success of the installation can be judged by the fact that the same solutions were also adopted to protect two other stations on the UK side of the London-to-Paris rail link. The Ebbsfleet International Station near Dartford in Kent, and the Stratford International Station near the City and Canary Wharf that was also central to the 2012 Olympic transport strategy, with forecasted passenger volumes of 25,000 a day to and from the Olympic Games' venues.However, technical performance was not the only consideration with which the installer had to contend“We had to take great care when installing the fire detection equipment, as it was vital to minimise any adverse aesthetic impact on the highly decorative Victorian architecture. Another major challenge was the need to install the new system in a station that was to remain open and be used daily by thousands of passengers. So, the fire safety system had to be always fully functional.”Error-free detectionThe life safety installation is managed in the station's main control room where, around the clock, a 1.2-metre LCD screen displays the entire station and its fire detection system. This provides an overview of the whole installation, or a drill-down, showing various levels of detail; if necessary, pinpointing information on any specific device. If, for example, a fire is signalled, the precise location can be viewed on screen, where devices can be interrogated. The screen can even display the best evacuation routes.With huge numbers of people converging on the station's platforms at peak travel times, and the travelling public's ever-present concerns regarding terrorist activities, ensuring the minimum disruption from false alarms was a paramount consideration. In the event of a confirmed fire, the system directly controls and monitors the station's voice evacuation system, which is audible in all the station's public areas. However, in places where high levels of ambient noise may make it difficult to hear voice alarms, such as toilets, Hochiki beacons were also fitted.Famous for helping to reduce false alarms, Hochiki's ESP protocol uses a combination of sophisticated algorithms that reduce data corruption. Additionally, with parity and checksum error detection principles applied to every set of data, unwanted external “noise”, such as EMC interference is eliminated.Hochiki optical smoke sensors are designed for both efficient detection and the virtual elimination of false alarms. The sensor's chamber incorporates uniquely angled baffles which allow air and smoke to circulate within the chamber but reduce the ambient light entering the chamber, thus improving the response of the optical elements. The sophistication of the sensing elements in the chamber enables it to also sense a wider range of fire types, so providing a more balanced response to different types of smoke particles. This is an Hochiki-developed technology that the company calls its “high-performance chamber”.The sensitivity of each device is set to match the prevailing conditions, additionally, to allow the most suitable sensing mode to be adopted for a particular environment, the multi-sensors can be set to heat only, smoke only or a combination of both sensing elements working together to determine a real fire.An Integrated SolutionThe main control panel was designed and engineered to meet High Speed 1 requirements. It incorporated 196 fire zone indicators, and several firefighters' control switches to allow the plant to be managed anywhere in the network via Hochiki loop output relays. A repeater panel, with an emergency fire telephone, was incorporated into the system for use by the fire brigade should an emergency condition occur within the main control suite.Summarising on the St Pancras International project the installer said:“Over the years we have used many different fire detection devices and we can truly say that Hochiki has time and time again proved to be the most reliable and best performing of them all”.Explaining in more detail:“The key elements that we look for in a fire system are reliability, flexibility, good quality control, high performance and false alarm management. The last thing we need on a site such as St Pancras International is unwanted false alarms. Hochiki have delivered superior product performance and hands-on technical support.”Just as Eurostar trains speeding out of the rejuvenated St Pancras International have established Britain's credentials in world-class high speed rail travel, so too has a new European benchmark for railway station fire safety been established.The Transport sector has a duty of care for its passengers and staff as well as having to provide constant protection of its property and assets from the threat of fire.

As a consequence of the Grenfell tragedy, an assessment of the building envelope was carried out on the 275nr residential apartment block in the centre of Leeds. It was found to be non-compliant with current regulations and in urgent need of replacement.The VariAL-SF system was selected as it complied with an A2 fire rating, with EN13501-1 classification by third parties, and satisfied the detailed planning constraints.The importance of the cladding refurbishment and replacement on this high-rise residential building cannot be understated. The building was identified by West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service late in 2019 as being high risk from the perspective of residents safety, due to the fact it was clad in flammable panels and onus was placed on the building owner to take swift action to make the building safe. As such, an ambitious 52 week programme for complete removal of the existing cladding and replacement was set out and achieved by the project team, despite significant limitations in terms of access and logistical challenges.To the passer-by, there is barely any discernible difference in the aesthetic of the building’s new facade, the colour-matching of the panels is incredibly accurate and allowed for a seamless transition to a much safer environment for the building’s residents.The apartment block was in the middle of a built up residential area. The contractor needed to obtain road closures from Leeds city council for two main roads which ran the full length and one side elevation.Furthermore the other main elevation was a pedestrian walkway with access to the apartment block , a hotel and several commercial buildings therefore safe access routes and segregation had to be installed and coordinated with the various parties involved.In addition, the building had to be reclad using 125ft cherry pickers working off the main road and pedestrian walkways therefore protective tracking systems had to be laid over the tarmac and paving to protect the existing materials.Throughout the building refurbishment, which took exactly 52 weeks, access to all the various buildings was maintained and contractor site personnel worked closely with adjacent building owners and especially the management team of the apartment block which accommodated 270 apartments to ensure minimal disruption.

750 metres deep inside a Welsh mountain lies the biggest stored power plant in Europe. With its remote location and harsh operating environment, Engie First Hydro contacted the Latchways team at MSA Safety to provide the complete solution for all its operational and maintenance fall protection needs. 7 million cubic meters of water are pumped through the giant turbines to generate power and then reversed as pumps to return the water to the reservoir. This tough working environment presents unique safety challenges for the electrical & mechanical operational and maintenance teams when working at height.

This is a BLASTguard glass balustrade installation by Miller Fabrications at the University Station in Birmingham. As a busy train station, a top-of-the-range balustrade was required to provide the highest quality of safety. More and more transport locations are upgrading their sites in order to improve the security of the public. This could be as a result of the new upcoming Protect Duty that is coming into force as a result of the terror attack at Manchester Arena in 2017. Pure Vista developed an anti-terror glass balustrade system with two variations. BLASTguard to withstand a bomb blast and BULLETguard that utilises bullet-proof glass. The BLASTguard balustrade system was designed in line with Pure Vista’s range in being a frameless system where the glass is only required to be held by the base shoe. A through-glass handrail can be added as required on many projects, such as this one. The glass can be at 1800mm high and still withstand the 3kN public area loading and achieve the blast testing. For this station development, the design team specified that a blast-proof system needed to be installed. Miller Fabrications took part in this large project and were the team who successfully installed BLASTguard, they stated that the installation was successful because the system is straightforward to install.  At University Station BLASTguard can be found of staircases around the main entrance. Within crowded spaces, anti-terror barriers can be used to protect different groups of people. By positioning the product on stairs and walkways, a blast will be more contained and therefore, the area becomes safer. If you would like to know more about Pure Vista’s anti-terror balustrade products, we run a CPD session on these products and how they can be used. As well as the key information on Martyn’s Law (protect duty), you’ll discover the fundamentals of Protect Duty, PALs, and the key information on anti-terror glass balustrade products. Learn about our commercial strength balustrade channels including the fire rated balustrade which can be used on installations over 11m high. The session will end with a Q&A where we can discuss your upcoming projects and ensure you leave this CPD with an increased knowledge of Martyn’s law and anti-terror glass balustrades. 

ASF's Building Protection Corner Bollard was used in the above project. The bollard is set up so that there is one quarter missing on the upright plane so that it fits perfectly on a 90 degree outside wall. The pattern can be adapted to other angles if necessary. Once in place the bollard acts as a wheel buffer for any vehicles getting too close to the corner - thus reducing the risk of damage to either the building or vehicle.

In a stunning architectural statement, CUPA PIZARRAS R17 slate has been specified to meet the design challenges of a former Georgian windmill renovation at Fort Green, near Aldeburgh in Suffolk. The first project of its kind in the UK, the natural slate was individually cut and fixed through expert craftsmanship to accommodate the building’s exterior curve while also providing crucial protection from the harsh coastal environment. Originally, the windmill walls were going to be clad in cedar shingles however, contractor ELC Roofing recommended using the rectangular CUPA R17 slate from CUPA PIZARRAS as a more weather-resistant alternative. ELC Roofing Owner, Edward Carlo, explains: “The R17 is a natural, non-carbonated blue-black slate with non-rusting metallic particles and thin laminations. From our perspective, it’s a tried and tested product that we specify and install on a lot of our projects – especially in coastal situations like this.” The slates, which protect against the salt water and wind, have been fitted on both the windmill’s curved wall, its pitched roof and elsewhere adding design details to the property’s walls. He goes on to say: “Aesthetically, the ocean environment has inspired the material choice with the slate mirroring the scales of a fish. This gives the windmill a dramatic architectural style; one that also sympathetically ties into the slate roof of the neighbouring cottage, which we replaced with CUPA R17 the previous year. “As far as I am aware, nothing like this windmill has been done in the UK. It was a case of starting from scratch to devise the optimum installation method, which involved a lot of detailed calculations.” For the tower, which has a 15m circumference at the base tapering to 11m at the top, the team initially removed the thick render on the windmill wall, taking it back to the original brickwork. Next, to meet the challenge of the curve and tapering of the wall, 50mm counter battens were fitted to the tower’s brickwork. Then, multiple strips of ply were cut and glued together to create the curve. These panels were screwed to the counter battens to provide an anchor for the fixing system. The ply was also primed to protect the surface from water ingress and a breathable membrane applied to protect the brickwork. In terms of fixing the slates to the panels, Edward said: “For a more corrosion and wind-resistant solution, I decided on the French technique of a stainless steel hook fixing system to install the slate, as opposed to nails.” Ensuring the layout worked exactly with the curves, the slate was lasered from top to bottom to perk it out, which took five days to do. Horizontal tiling battens were also marked to ensure the slates were fixed at the right height. Every single slate was cut and fixed individually to accommodate the curve and ensure they aligned with the building’s inset windows as well as other architectural details - a very precise process that required expert levels of craftsmanship. Preventing the slates from getting smaller at height, the team designed-in a series of lead bands that go all around the building at each storey level. These sit underneath the windows to create a consistent appearance visually. The windmill’s domed copper roof existed already and the adjoining tower, which is horizontally clad in a white weatherboard, features a slated pitched roof. ELC Roofing has again used CUPA PIZARRAS spanish slates. In this instance, the roof curves to the back end with four leaded hips to one end and two to the other with a connecting lead ridge. This time the slates were fitted to 20 x 50mm battens with a layer of permeable membrane. This part of the roof also features a striking onion-shaped finial. Expertly crafted by ELC Roofing, the finial is produced out of a patchwork of small pieces of soft copper, topped off with a fish that acts as a weather vane and includes stunning marble eyes. To the other side of the clad tower, CUPA PIZARRAS slate has been used to create a vertical square panel detail to the front of the building and fixed using the hook system again. Commenting on this challenging project, Edward said: “Work on site started before the first Covid-19 lockdown so as well as the challenging weather conditions that a coastal location like this presents, the team also had to complete the work with government guidance and restrictions in place. Regardless, the client is overwhelmed with the end result and so are we.” To find out more about the CUPA PIZARRAS range of natural slate visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/natural-slate-roofing/

ASF were initially approached to supply the standard ASF 5002 bollard to use in the protection for car charging units situated at motorway services across the UK. After some initial discussion it was decided that a variation on that bollard would be best, offered at 2 standard diameters (101mm and 114mm) and as both straight and cranked bollard profiles.This allowed a standard spec to be circulated around several installation contractors that was at once consistent whilst also having the flexibility to be used on individual sites that typically have slightly varied needs.The bollards are finished polished with a green visibility band in a machined recess and off a robust and effective barrier whilst being relatively unobtrusive not displeasing to the eye.

The fire station and training centre at Edinburgh Airport worked with Flowcrete UK to identify and install a floor finish that would be able to cope with the difficult on-site conditions. A new floor was required as the previous quarry tile surface was incorrectly laid to a fall, this caused water to run in the wrong direction - ending up at the back of the building as well as ponding between the bays.

Chartek 7 was specified for this project, as an epoxy intumescent coating with an outstanding track record of protection against hydrocarbon fires dating back to 1995. The PFP system had to be able withstand explosion loads in excess for 4bar while maintaining its integrity, and Chartek 7 easily met these requirements. Using Chartek also provided productivity benefits, due to its high build and simple meshing system, along with a low weight per unit area, helping to reduce transportation costs for pre-fabricated units.Pre-fabrication played an important role in this project, due to the harsh environmental conditions and remoteness of the site. Steel components were constructed at locations across Europe, with the emphasis on minimizing installation and delivery costs. The ability of AkzoNobel to provide standardized global products and a high level of technical support helped to streamline and add value to this process, complementing the productivity benefits of Chartek.

Wexham Park Hospital, an acute NHS hospital situated near Slough in Berkshire is protected by a network of 20 MxPro 5 fire panels.The 588-bed hospital is one of three managed by Frimley Health NHS Foundation trust, one of the top performing NHS trusts in the United Kingdom. As well as the main hospital building, the site has a large post graduate building, ambulance station, staff accommodation and a new £49 million, state-of-the-art, four-story Emergency Assessment Center. Responsible for the design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the system was Advanced’s partner, Static Systems Group.In addition to the MxPro 5 panels, the system also comprises 18 MxPro 5 repeater panels and 2,000 Apollo field devices which are installed in a number of hospital buildings and departments including Intensive Care, Sterile Services, Radiology and its new 9,300 sq. meters Emergency Assessment Center.