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Renowned Keynotes and Expert Panels Chart Practical Paths to Decarbonise the Built Environment at _shift 2024

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The _shift conference returned for its third edition on November 7, 2024, at Newcastle University’s award-winning Henry Daysh Building, continuing Space Group’s mission to aid in the decarbonisation of the built environment. Building on the momentum of previous years, this year’s sold-out event brought together hundreds of in-person and online attendees, fostering collaboration among built environment professionals, environmental leaders, and those eager to drive positive change across the North East and beyond.

The day began with registration and networking, providing attendees the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals. Rob Charlton, CEO of Space Group, opened the conference with a warm welcome, striking a thoughtful balance between the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and marking the industry’s progress. Chris Hines MBE, Founder of A Grain of Sand and a returning chair for _shift, then introduced the program. Known for his ability to spark meaningful dialogue, Hines outlined the goals for this year’s event: to explore practical solutions for decarbonisation, foster collaboration, and inspire attendees to lead change within their organisations and communities.

This year, _shift was honoured to welcome John Elkington, Founder of Volans, renowned inventor of the triple bottom line and a globally acclaimed authority on sustainability, as its keynote speaker. Widely referred to as the “Godfather of Sustainability,” Elkington delivered an inspiring presentation titled Regenerating Our Future: The Challenges and Opportunities. Elkington explored the paradigm shifts needed to combat the climate crisis, emphasising that the next 10–15 years will be the most transformative period of our lifetimes. Reflecting on the global landscape, including recent political developments in the United States, he encouraged optimism and resilience, reminding attendees that the momentum for sustainability is a global movement too robust for any single political regime to reverse. His insights touched on the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic challenges and the critical role of regeneration. Elkington’s ability to distil complex issues into actionable strategies left the audience energised and ready to engage in the sessions ahead.

The spotlight then shifted to industry pioneers. Alex Cropley, Head of Business Development and Partnerships at Low Carbon Materials, presented on the company’s mission to decarbonise construction. Building on their impactful involvement in the inaugural _shift conference, Cropley shared updates on their groundbreaking work, including innovative case studies demonstrating how their materials are reducing carbon footprints across major UK projects. Cropley’s presentation underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving sustainability goals, inspiring attendees to rethink traditional practices in construction and material sourcing.

Up next, Catherine Sinclair, KTP Associate and Architect specialising in Zero Carbon at SPACE Architects, took the stage to discuss the vital role of early-stage design decisions in reducing whole-life carbon. Drawing on her work through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Northumbria University, Sinclair shared research findings and practical approaches for integrating sustainability from the outset of projects. Her insights were particularly valuable to architects and designers seeking to align their practices with net-zero targets. Sinclair’s recognition as one of RIBA Journal’s Rising Stars 2024 further highlighted her contribution to the field, making her presentation a standout moment of the day.

The morning session concluded with a panel discussion titled The Hidden Footprint: Reducing Embodied Carbon. Moderated by Chris Hines, the panel featured Catherine Sinclair, Alex Cropley, and Stephen Dam, Retrofit Lead at Sewell Group. Together, they explored the often-overlooked challenge of embodied carbon in construction and shared strategies for reducing its impact. Audience members engaged the panel with thoughtful questions, seeking advice on balancing sustainability with client priorities and navigating the complexities of early-stage decision-making. The panel’s practical insights provided attendees with actionable takeaways to implement in their own projects.

Following a networking lunch, our second keynote, Emily Penn, Founder and Director of eXXpedition, delivered a captivating keynote titled What’s Your Superpower? Penn, who graduated from Cambridge with a degree in architecture, shared her transformative journey from aspiring architect to ocean advocate. Her story began with a decision to travel to Australia by boat rather than plane—a choice that exposed her to the devastating impact of microplastics on the ocean. This experience led her to found eXXpedition, a groundbreaking initiative focused on removing microplastics from the ocean and inspiring systemic change. Penn’s presentation highlighted the power of individual actions in creating collective impact. Her call to action resonated strongly with the audience, driving home the importance of personal accountability.

Following Penn, Sophie Simpson, Associate Director and Sustainability Engineer at Cundall, presented on Sustainable Smart Societies. Her session delved into the current performance of cities and explored strategies for future-proofing urban environments. Simpson’s expertise in sustainable engineering provided a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology, design, and sustainability, offering a roadmap for creating smarter, greener cities.

Joining us from Northern Ireland, Deborah O’Hanlon, Group Sustainability and Quality Manager at Henry Brothers, delivered the last presentation of the day titled Sustainability, Our Golden Thread. She highlighted the company’s award-winning net-zero projects and the initiatives that earned them the prestigious King Charles Award for Business in Sustainability this year. O’Hanlon’s session showcased real-world examples of successful sustainability initiatives, providing attendees with inspiration and practical guidance for implementing similar strategies in their organisations.

The final panel discussion, Sustainability by Design: Tackling Carbon at Every Stage, brought together Deborah O’Hanlon, Sophie Simpson, and Oliver Heidrich, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Newcastle University. The panel explored the challenges and opportunities of designing for sustainability across the building lifecycle. Audience questions sparked a dynamic conversation, with panellists offering insights into integrating sustainability during the design and construction of infrastructure. The discussion underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving net-zero targets.

Rob Charlton, CEO of Space Group, closed the event with a heartfelt thank-you to the speakers, panellists, and attendees. Reflecting on the inspiring conversations and ideas shared throughout the day, he celebrated the conference’s continued impact in driving meaningful change within the built environment. The conversations and connections made at the conference will certainly fuel progress in the months and years ahead. As shift 2024 came to a close, it was clear that the event had achieved its mission: to inspire, educate, and empower attendees to take bold steps in the fight against climate change.

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MIKROFILL LAUNCHES MINI, MIDI & MAXI AP FOR BEST-IN-CLASS PUMPED PRESSURISATION UNITS

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LEADING pressurisation systems manufacturer Mikrofill has launched new and improved products to support customer needs. The new Mikrofill Maxi AP for large capacity systems will bring together the best of engineering from both the current Mikrofill Maxi and Aquatech Pressmain AP unit – both of which brands are part of the Stuart Turner Group.

Following feedback from customers, the Maxi AP has also been redesigned internally to make the system easier to use and service, with more flexible fittings and easily accessible controls and is available in four size options.

The new advanced Ai100 system microcontroller also helps retain precise pressure control and offers a more intuitive user interface with simplified feature access. With the inclusion of ModBus, the unit can be easily connected to building management systems.

Stuart Savill, head of engineering for Stuart Turner Group, said: “We have listened to feedback from customers and with Stuart Turner Group investment, we are proud to be bringing the Mikrofill Maxi AP to market, utilising Aquatech Pressmain – well known in the specification market for its engineering excellence. Combining the Aquatech Pressmain AP unit with the Mikrofill Maxi, we have designed and developed a best-in-class pressurisation unit that meets and exceeds customer requirements.

“Alongside the Mikrofill 3 (CAT 4 approved for commercial use) and the range of Aquatech Pressmain pressurisation units, we are confident we offer a family of pressurisation units that will fit and fulfil customer projects, backed by brands that are well known for quality and customer service and that are trade trusted.”

In addition, the Mikrofill Mini and Midi have undergone several improvements. This includes the switch to recycled ABS – a thermoplastic polymer that is strong, durable and versatile, suitable for vacuum-formed components such as the PCB and pump covers.

The units have also been given a makeover with additions such as plate brackets and fixing screws to secure the cover to the top of the tank, new fascias, and all will come in the signature blue colour to match the Mikrofill 3.

All manufactured in Britain, the Mini and Midi are compact and easy to install units that can be wall or floor mounted. They are suitable for maintaining pressure in large residential and small commercial sealed heating systems, chilled water systems, refrigeration units, and industrial cooling systems and are offered in two pump options each.

Stuart added: “The redesign and improvements made to these units is a marked step for Mikrofill, using industry-leading engineering and offering a range of solutions to support pressurisation.”

To find out more, please visit www.Mikrofill.com.

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RICS 2024 Sustainability Report: More NI respondents measuring carbon than UK counterparts

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  • 42% of NI respondents state that a lack of government incentives and policy uncertainty are a barrier preventing the widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.
  • 38% of respondents in Northern Ireland report that they currently do not measure embodied carbon, which is lower than the UK average, which sits at 43%.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has today published its global sustainability report for 2024. The publication outlines the state of the world’s green and sustainable real estate, while also highlighting essential policy recommendations to help drive the UK’s built environment sector towards decarbonisation.

While the UK has made strides in carbon reduction across buildings and infrastructure, RICS stresses in the report that further action is needed to meet national and global climate goals.

38% of respondents in Northern Ireland report that they currently do not measure embodied carbon, which is lower than the UK average, which sits at 43%.

Looking at factors deemed to be holding back the industry, in Northern Ireland, 42% of respondents state that a lack of government incentives and policy uncertainty is a barrier preventing the widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the industry. This is compared to the 31% seen at UK level.

In Northern Ireland, high initial costs of sustainable or green building practices and materials appears to be a barrier, with 46% reporting this as a challenge for adopting sustainable construction practices.

In Northern Ireland, 20% of respondents stated that they measure biodiversity on all projects, while 50% said that it is taken into account on some projects.

To accelerate progress, RICS advocates for a comprehensive sustainability approach that includes evidence-based targets, mandatory carbon assessments (such as WLCA) for all new projects, and enhanced training for built environment professionals. The report also recommends that policymakers set clear, national targets to aid decarbonisation, alongside the enforcement of minimum energy performance standards, building codes, and climate resilience benchmarks.

To support Government and the industry’s shift toward sustainability, RICS standards, including our Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA) and Retrofit standards, provide valuable frameworks to assist government efforts. These standards align with national goals by offering practical pathways for achieving sustainable outcomes.

Additionally, the recently launched ‘Net Zero Carbon Building Standard’ builds on this, creating clear guidelines to complement government initiatives and bolster the transition to net zero.

These figures could also increase further in the coming years due to the UK’s recent biodiversity net gain legislation. This legislation requires developers to improve the biodiversity of their sites by a minimum of 10%. The regulation became mandatory in February 2024 and is expected to extend to include major infrastructure projects in 2025.

RICS President, Tina Paillet, commented:
“Last year, I described the RICS Sustainability Report as a wake-up call to our industry, pointing out that our progress on sustainability was lagging behind what is required. Despite that, I expressed confidence that the 2050 net-zero target was still within reach, if we pursued it wholeheartedly. This year’s report, however, suggests that the level of commitment necessary to meet these goals is still lacking, presenting a mixed but underwhelming picture overall.

“Credible policy interventions are essential, and regulation remains a significant factor driving green real estate investment and shaping construction practices. RICS will continue to champion effective regulation and the adoption of common standards across jurisdictions to simplify processes, ensure a level playing field, and ultimately drive meaningful progress on climate goals.”

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Company fined following death of nursing home resident

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Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), a Belfast-based health care company, Harmony CCS Limited, were today fined £50,000 following the death of a resident who suffered injuries resulting from a fall.

The company earlier pleaded guilty to a single health and safety breach following the death of a patient at Rose Lodge Nursing home in Lisburn in 2020.

The prosecution arose following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), into the fall of a resident, Mrs. Mary ‘Pat’ Thompson on 18 May 2020. The court heard that while receiving personal care, Mrs. Thompson was left sitting unattended at the edge of a bed. She subsequently fell forwards onto the floor and suffered multiple injuries. She passed away a number of days later in hospital.

Speaking after the hearing, HSENI Inspector Kiara Blackburn said: “Care plans must identify the specific care needs of each resident and should be followed by all care staff. Staff should not be reliant on informal assessments to determine a resident’s needs.

“Any changes to a resident’s needs should be adequately risk assessed, documented and the information communicated to all care staff.”

The HSENI investigation found that the care plans for Mrs. Thompson indicated that she required the assistance of two carers for safe moving, handling, and transferring activities. No formal indication was provided within these care plans as to the level of assistance Mrs. Thompson required for personal care.

On this occasion a junior member of staff was directed by a senior member of staff to provide personal care for Mrs. Thompson on her own. As a result, Mrs. Thompson was moved by one carer and left unattended at the edge of the bed from which she fell.

The investigation found that there was no formal system in place to identify whether personal care was to be carried out by one or two carers. Instead, staff relied on a daily, informal assessment of the resident’s presentation to determine their needs. This practice highlighted the failure of the company to ensure that adequate systems were in place to ensure the safety of residents, and to ensure that all staff were adequately trained and supervised to carry out their work safely.

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ABM Celebrates Team Excellence at Dublin Roadshow

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ABM, the leading provider of integrated facility and aviation services, has announced the winners of its annual One ABM Awards, which recognise the outstanding achievements of its team members.

This year’s awards, which took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin Airport, were focused on growth and acceleration. Eight awards were presented to ABM team members, highlighting their commitment, dedication, and exceptional contributions to the company.

The event celebrated the following winners:

  • Respect & Integrity Award – Paul Woods – Site Manager
  • Trainee of the Year – Paula Gaspari – Site Manager
  • Excellence Award – Shahzad Sattar – Client Services Manager
  • Rising Star Award – Debora Trindade – Financial Accountant and FP&A Analyst
  • Shared Services Award – Michael Darcy – Head of Procurement and Supply Chain
  • Team of the Year – Health & Safety Team
  • Team Member of the Year – Darren James – Operations Manager
  • Team Leader of the Year – Gislane Goncalves – Site Manager

The Dublin roadshow is part of ABM’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence within the organisation. Attendees heard about the company’s key goals and objectives for the year ahead from ABM SVP and President, UK & Ireland, Richard Sykes.

The One ABM awards honour the extraordinary work of ABM team members across the UK and Ireland. Each winner of the regional events in Dublin, Glasgow, Manchester, London and Birmingham will now enter a shortlisting process for the upcoming One ABM: Growth & Acceleration UK & Ireland conference and awards in London in November.

ABM specialises in providing customised facilities solutions to clients in the healthcare, manufacturing, aviation, commercial, critical, retail & leisure, life sciences, transportation, and logistics sectors.

The company has over 2,300 employees across Ireland with clients including Blanchardstown Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin Bus, The Mater Hospital, Golden Island Shopping Centre, University Hospital Waterford, Brown Thomas Dublin, Tallaght University Hospital, and Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.

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How AI Security Innovations Can Combat Construction Site Theft

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In recent years, break-ins and thefts on building sites have surged, posing serious challenges for construction firms and property managers. With expensive equipment, valuable materials, and the vast, often isolated nature of building sites, securing these areas has become increasingly complex and costly.

According to a BauWatch report published in February 2024, a huge 70% of construction workers witness theft on site every year, which causes delays to at least a third of construction projects.

In response, companies are turning to new security measures, with a growing emphasis on AI-driven solutions to address these risks. Here, Integrated Fencing details how traditional measures are becoming enhanced by AI technology.

Traditional Security Measures

Many construction companies rely on tried-and-true security measures, such as physical barriers, temporary fencing, lighting, and security personnel. While these measures are essential in deterring and preventing thieves from accessing sites and stealing thousands of pounds worth of equipment, they can be dramatically improved with the integration of technology.

That’s why construction firms are now focusing on complementing traditional methods with more advanced technologies to create a comprehensive solution that covers not only the perimeter, but also internal zones of the construction site.

AI Integration With Construction Site Security

AI technology is playing an increasingly prominent role in addressing the complexities of construction site security. AI-powered surveillance cameras and monitoring systems can analyse video feeds in real time, detecting suspicious behaviour before it escalates.

This means that, rather than relying on human guards to monitor every feed, AI systems can send alerts only when unusual activity is detected – making the response time faster and more precise.

For example, some AI systems can differentiate between regular workers and intruders based on their movements or even the types of equipment they are carrying. Integrated with access control systems, these AI-powered solutions provide a layered approach to security, ensuring only authorised individuals enter specific areas, reducing the chances of internal theft as well.

Commenting on the role AI plays in construction site security, Hywel Davies, Construction Director and Co-Owner of Integrated Fencing, said:

“The rapid development of AI over the last few years means it is now a part of almost every industry, and security is no exception.

“We have to embrace the advantages of this technology now readily available and quite easily at our disposal to integrate with traditional methods.

“Real-time video analysis and alerts for unusual activity, coupled with strong perimeter security fencing and barriers, can help eliminate the possibility of thefts altogether.

“We strongly encourage construction firms to seek help from security professionals who will work alongside them to find bespoke solutions to prevent their valuable equipment from being stolen.”

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EnviraBoard Breaks Ground on Production Plant

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The UK-based manufacturer, EnviraBoard, has commenced construction work on its first mini production plant in Fårevejle near Copenhagen.

It is hoped that the mini plant will be fully operational by approximately the middle of 2025, and the business will use this R&D site to demonstrate the production process and to produce short runs of sample products for testing.

Using proven Danish technology (IP acquired), EnviraBoard utilises recycled paper sludge waste as the raw material for its sustainable building boards, aptly named “EnviraBoards”. This recycled paper sludge, a secondary waste material from the production of recycled paper that would usually end up in incineration or landfill, is free from toxins and environmentally safe.

The EnviraBoard product offers both a solution to the waste disposal challenges in the paper recycling industry and a new, sustainable, and totally circular alternative to widely used plasterboard products—typically made from gypsum.

The new EnviraBoards demonstrate a net reduction in carbon emissions (compared to disposing of the waste) and are fully recyclable, with the intention that any waste boards and off-cuts can be recycled to produce new boards. They also offer strong acoustic and fire-resistant performance, excellent impact resistance, and are flexible, clean, quick, and easy to install, handle, and finish.

Following the launch of a SEED funding round in July 2024, the business continues to seek investment to fully develop the mini plant. However, with funds already secured and additional support from the Innovation Fund Denmark, the project is already underway.

The business is forecasting significant international growth, with potential plans to set up further production facilities at up to 1,000 paper recycling sites.

About EnviraBoard

During the past 15 years, the EnviraBoard team has invested in developing, prototyping, and market-testing its carbon-negative building boards. The boards are made from secondary paper waste that cannot be recycled and would normally go to landfill.

The team has a wealth of expertise, technical knowledge, and industry experience to ensure the product range meets the sustainability and circular economy requirements of the construction industry.

Find out more and register at https://enviraboard.com/, and keep up to date with the latest developments by following www.linkedin.com/company/enviraboard/.

EnviraBoard’s launch is being supported by the specialist environmental incubator and accelerator 350 PPM.

About 350 PPM

350 PPM is on a mission to reduce the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere to 350 parts per million and reduce CO₂e (equivalent greenhouse gases) to similar levels. It operates as a central legal entity whose purpose is incubating and accelerating breakthrough environmental businesses, participating directly in the development of client companies to support success.

As a result, the companies selected for its portfolio are those that can make the biggest impact on reducing the level of CO₂ per USD invested.

If you’d like further information on the companies being incubated now, please register your interest at https://350ppm.co.uk/, and follow www.linkedin.com/company/350-ppm-ltd/ for regular news updates and access to its exciting investment network.

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3 Tips for Construction Companies Looking to Make Their Events More Sustainable

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According to the National Building Specification (NBS) Sustainable Futures Report, 54% of construction professionals state that environmental sustainability is an important aspect of the projects they work on. Nine out of every 10 respondents reported working on a project with sustainable outcome targets1.

However, sustainability is often prioritized during the design stages of a development or building. While 84% of construction professionals stated that sustainability is ideally considered at the strategy and brief stage of a project, this decreases to 59% at the design stage, 38% at the construction and handover stage, and just 36% when the building is ready for use.

This same decline in sustainability integration is present when construction companies exhibit at one of the UK’s 190 national and regional construction events and exhibitions.

Edward Marshall, Co-founder and Creative Director at custom exhibition stand company Motive Exhibitions, shares his knowledge on how construction and built environment companies can integrate sustainability into their events, from stand concept through to reuse.

1. Think Timber

Using timber for event stands is a popular choice due to its sustainability, aesthetics, and versatility. Incorporating timber in the stand structure, displays, and furniture supports sustainability efforts from the planning and design stage through to exhibiting on the day. Certified timber from organizations like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) ensures responsible forest management by sourcing from renewable forests that are replanted regularly.

Historically, wood has been widely used in the exhibition trade, particularly for larger custom builds, furniture, and flooring. However, a more eco-friendly option is to rent modular structures, timber flooring, and furniture to reduce environmental impact and CO₂ emissions.

Modular frameworks made with sustainable aluminum—lightweight, recyclable, and cost-effective for transport—can complement timber elements. These hybrid approaches combine modular and custom timber components with rental furniture and AV equipment to tailor stands to specific needs.

Timber also sequesters carbon during its lifecycle, making it a low-carbon alternative to materials like metal or plastic, reducing the overall carbon footprint of events and aligning with sustainability goals.

While some assume sustainable stands are more expensive, reusing stand structures can save money. For instance, a company attending five major events yearly could spend upwards of £6,000 per new stand plus setup costs. By recycling and tweaking their designs, they instead pay between £4,000–£5,000 per event. Over five years, this approach saved them approximately £125,000.

2. Hire Your Assets

The UK construction equipment rental and leasing industry, worth £8.6 billion in 20232, highlights the growing ease of hiring the right tools. This approach can extend to exhibition stands as well.

Hiring elements such as frameworks, furniture, AV equipment, video walls, lighting, and props is usually cheaper than purchasing outright. It allows companies to allocate budgets to higher-quality, sustainable products while switching up designs for each event.

At UK Construction Week 2024, the debut of Onsite On Hire—a showcase of rentable tools and equipment—demonstrated the importance of sustainability in the construction sector. Exhibitors such as Speedy Hire, JCB, and Hire Exchange reinforced the role of rental options in sustainable showcasing.

3. Make It Modular

Modular construction is gaining popularity for its technological advantages and sustainable solutions. Leading construction companies like Skanska and Bouygues invest in modular housing due to shorter timelines and lower material costs. This modular approach can also be extended to exhibition stands.

Modular stands are reconfigurable to suit any size, customizable to budgets, and designed to align with business objectives and exhibition spaces. They often combine purchased, rented, recycled, and reused components from previous events, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

Modular construction projects can cut timelines and costs by 60–90%. For construction companies striving for sustainability, showcasing modular designs demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility while aligning with customer expectations.

The Impact of Sustainability on Brand Reputation

Sustainability initiatives benefit construction companies by reducing harmful environmental impacts while enhancing brand reputation and credibility. By integrating sustainability into event marketing, companies can create a positive brand impact, attract more clients, and support the growth of a more sustainable industry.

Creating sustainable event spaces reinforces a company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, strengthens brand values, and fosters a sustainable future for the construction sector.

Footnotes

  1. National Building Specification (NBS) Sustainable Futures Report
  2. Industry research provider IbisWorld
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NFB: “Farmers have our support”

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As the farming industry gets ready to protest changes to agricultural property relief (APR), they can count on construction to understand their concerns.

Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said:

“Construction companies are also generational businesses operating on tight margins, uncertain cashflow and aging workforces. We therefore stand behind farmers who oppose this budget decision because the growth-hindering, anti-business tax changes also apply to our industry.

With so many construction companies being generational, struggling with regulatory burdens and a fifth of workers being over fifty years old, early conversations with members have highlighted that some will consider closing their businesses, changing operations, or cutting back the size of their operations.

This means fewer directly employed workers and more sub-contracting, so greater pressure on state pensions and public services. A reduction in new learners and reskilling, as SMEs train 8 in 10 construction apprentices. Rural areas disproportionately impacted, as local constructors are often major local employers. Fewer businesses to build our houses, especially council homes that are typically built by SMEs. Less capacity to deliver capital and infrastructure works. And a greater challenge to meet our carbon targets, especially to retrofit our 28 million buildings.

Some members said they will sell rather than pass on and while this ensures a future for those businesses, it comes with workforce insecurity, a loss of experience and talent, and unless bought by a local person, the loss of a local investor.

This Government is at risk of being remembered as the one which closed the businesses who keep us fed and build the homes, roads, rail, commercial premises, renewable energy, transport hubs, schools, hospitals, utility connections, drainage systems, and climate solutions. A rethink is desperately needed.”

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Abloy UK Creates Bespoke Locking Solution for Secure Information Boxes

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Abloy UK has supplied the Safety Letterbox Company Ltd with a bespoke Sentry CL811 Camlock for use in its Secure Information Boxes, assisting life safety and complying with new regulations and legislation for high-rise buildings.

The Safety Letterbox Company Ltd is a British manufacturer, designing, manufacturing, and supplying mailboxes and parcel boxes from its UK factory in South Wales for over 38 years. The company needed a bespoke locking solution for its Secure Information Box solution to meet a number of strict requirements.

Following the tragic Grenfell Tower disaster, the Fire Industry Association (FIA) and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) took decisive action by introducing The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which came into effect in January 2023.

These regulations state that existing high-rise residential buildings over 18 metres, as well as new builds over 11 metres or 7 storeys, must appoint a responsible person. This person is responsible for maintaining hard copies of the building’s floor plans, a single-page orientation plan, and the name and contact details of the responsible person.

All this essential information must be stored in a Secure Information Box (formerly known as the Premises Information Box), which should remain easily accessible for firefighters during emergencies.

These details are essential for fire responders during emergencies, and by offering quick access to this information, the Secure Information Box enhances safety and efficiency in critical situations. The Safety Letterbox Company Ltd’s Secure Information Box meets these requirements and is suitable for either internal or external locations.

It not only complies with the law but also adheres to the highest security standards, such as BS EN 1303, the European standard on cylinders for locks used for security and protection to keep belongings and dwelling places safe. It is also tested and certified to Secured by Design standards STS205 BR2.

Jon Parry, Commercial Manager at The Safety Letterbox Company Ltd, said: “Since the introduction of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, there has been a huge appetite for our Secure Information Box. We worked collaboratively with Abloy UK and valued them as a trusted advisor to create a unique and bespoke Sentry CL811 Camlock for use within the solution.

“We are proud to currently be the only British manufacturer producing this product in the UK. Our in-house research and development team has plans to evolve the range further in partnership with Abloy UK, and they are currently developing innovative new products that we are excited to launch in the future.”

Shaun Powell, General Sales Manager – OEM at Abloy UK, added: “At Abloy UK, we are committed to providing high-quality locking solutions that meet the strict safety and security standards required for critical applications.

“Working with The Safety Letterbox Company Ltd on the development of the bespoke Sentry CL811 Camlock for their Secure Information Boxes has been an exciting collaboration.

“We are proud to support their efforts in enhancing fire safety in high-rise buildings by offering products that comply with the latest regulations and ensure easy access for emergency responders when it’s needed most.”

For further information on products and services available from Abloy UK, visit https://bit.ly/3Z9GQvp, email info@abloy.co.uk, or call 01902 364 500.

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