Sarnafil launches green roofing guide
Sarnafil’s commitment to the sustainability agenda continues with the release of its SarnaVert Green Roofing Systems guide.
Giving an insight into the manifold applications and advantages of living roofs, the guide highlights the important role green roofs have to play in reducing the negative impact of climate change – especially global warming and flood risk – as well as enhancing the environment and improving a building’s performance.
As a company dedicated to instigating sustainable building practices, the guide also demonstrates how Sarnafil’s SarnaVert system and support services can assist in all phases of green roofing projects.
Marrying its market-leading single ply membrane with biodiverse, extensive or intensive green roof options, SarnaVert is an increasingly popular choice among clients searching for sustainable solutions. To illustrate the benefits the system brings, the reduced whole life costs and lower BREEAM ratings that can be expected on installation of a Sarnafil green roof are also laid bare in the guide.
Commenting on the launch, marketing manager Mark Harris says: “We’re passionate about raising the profile of green roofs, having recently sponsored a ‘Green Roofs and the Education System’ White Paper and played a lead role in the formation of the Green Roof Organisation (GRO), so this guide is as much an indispensible resource on green roofs as it is a product guide.”
For a free copy of the SarnaVert Green Roofing Systems guide, call Rebecca Crossfield on 01603 748985 or email crossfield.rebecca@sarnafil.co.uk. Alternatively, download the guide from www.sarnafil.co.uk.

PiMS Workspace locator enables businesses to optimise the use of space and reduce costs
New online portal service delivers instant access to schematics and occupancy reports for commercial properties
PiMS Workspace, the leading UK provider of tailored accommodation solutions, has today announced the availability of its Workspace Locator service. The PiMS Workspace Locator provides existing customers with a secure, hosted site where they have access to Computer Aided Design (CAD) building layout drawings and can view occupancy reports - empowering managers to control changes and make informed businesses decisions concerning space use, assets and personnel.
PiMS Workspace is already hosting information for over six million square feet of schematics and holds staff occupancy reports for commercial properties, for a large number of its clients, including a major global administrator. Traditionally, to make any changes and produce new reports for clients, it would take up to half a day, but using Workspace Locator, businesses can access the necessary information from any location and report relevant changes instantly.
“Plans and reports are an integral part of the work we carry out for our clients in order to accurately record space use, asset and personnel occupancy, especially for those companies with high space churn or open plan offices,” says Managing Director of PiMS Workspace, Martin Atkinson. “PiMS Workspace Locator enables our clients to enjoy complete transparency of space and assets. As a result, they can easily identify opportunities to cut costs and maximise the use of space. For example, a company might be able to reduce their total space requirement and hence other associated costs, such as energy.”
Users of the PiMS Workspace Locator service do not require technical expertise or costly specialist CAD software implementations on-site, simply a standard web connection and browser to access a secure hosted site. Using a username and password, managers are given real-time access to a comprehensive library of information. Users can then generate reports and associated drawings based on vacant space, space ownership, names of personnel on desks and asset location information.
Changes can be made by the user by ‘red lining’, a process where users can amend layout plans as necessary, such as adding a new member of staff or repositioning a desk. This information is immediately sent to the CAD team at PiMS Workspace so that the change can be implemented.
Comments Atkinson, “As a company, PiMS Workspace is committed to providing high levels of customer service and support, and the PiMS Workspace Locator is an excellent example of how we constantly strive to add value for our clients.”
PiMS Workspace Locator is available from PiMS Workspace today.

New coin sized HD camera from Sony
A high definition, 8.3 megapixel camera module the size of a £1 coin has been developed by Sony Europe’s Image Sensing Solutions Division (ISS), the latest addition to the range of MCB modules now available for industrial applications.
The 9.5x7.1mm camera module, entitled MCB1172, is the smallest camera capable of delivering 720p HD quality, high frame rate pictures available, particularly attractive to the security market.
The camera module delivers 30 frames per second (fps) at 720p resolution and its features include movie stabilisation, face detection, autofocus and motion autofocus. The MCB1172-P also comes with a high sensitivity mode and a smooth slow movie function, delivering 120fps, idea for security applications.
For inspection, biometry or medical applications, which need higher resolution, the modules can provide up to 8 megapixel still images with related features including a 16x digital zoom, image stabiliser, short interval shooting capabilities, an action capture mode and backlight offset.
The 1/3.2” type camera module consists of a lens, a feature-rich DSP and high quality Sony CMOS sensor. The progressive scan CMOS sensor delivers video support with YCbCr video or JPEG still image output.

7 Day Catering for Claire’s Accessories
National contract caterer 7 Day Catering have further strengthened their portfolio with a successful facility at the headquarters of fashion retailer Claire’s Accessories.
The company were awarded the contract to provide staff catering, hospitality and vending at the Birmingham, taking over from previous caterers Harrison’s.
Claire’s operates over 3000 stores internationally, and employ over 300 staff at the Midlands based head office. Their aim in tendering for a new caterer was to establish a service for employees that recognised the requirements of food, service and environment both now and in the future.
7 Day Catering’s approach was to modernise the service by installing a brand new Costa coffee bar, which as well as providing top quality beverages also serves grab and go sandwiches, snacks and desserts.
In the restaurant, lunchtimes have a new menu which features homemade soup, a choice of hot dishes included calorie counted healthier selections, filled jacket potatoes and speciality sandwiches. Customers are also offered breakfast specials, regular promotions and the company’s popular loyalty scheme.
Steve Williams, Supply Chain VP of Claire’s Europe praised 7 Day Catering for the great work and said that “everyone is pleased with the way the transition has gone and have commented on the food being much better.”
He added: ” I know the catering team can often feel like they are under-valued in this business, because it’s one of those areas which people just take for granted.
However, 7 Day Catering are very valued - the service, smiling and laughing demeanour serve as a real antidote when people are having a tough day in the office.”
7 Day Catering are rapidly increasing their presence both in the midlands and all over the UK, with their commitment to cooking with local fresh ingredients making them stand out in today’s market place.
For further information visit: www.7daycatering.co.uk.

LED Lighting Solution for G24I
G24 Innovations Limited are a UK company based in Cardiff. The company manufactures and designs solar modules and high value products using thin film technology. These products are ideal for integration with a wide range of products including mobile electronic devices.
G24i Operate from this large premises in Cardiff, South Wales.
The company occupies a 187, 000 square foot factory which is set on 23 acres.
G24i's factory will be the first facility ever to produce solar cells whilst relying exclusively on renewable energy, including solar, wind, geothermal and other green sources.
When G24i first acquired the Cardiff site, the plant, car park and exterior of the building were all lit by highly inefficient sodium discharge lamps.
The company realised that if they were to achieve their aim of running the plant solely on energy from renewable sources that this had to be addressed.
Eliot Abel, G24i’s Sustainability Programmes Manager, was given the task of making the plant as energy efficient as possible and he saw an opportunity to make significant savings on the existing lighting. That is when G24i made contact with iVision, a UK manufacturer of low energy LED lighting products. iVision conducted a full energy audit free of charge and suggested that over 80% energy savings could be made on 250 sodium discharge lamps by replacing them with state - of - the - art LED fittings. The installation of a sophisticated control system for the new lighting would also allow further savings to be made.
A total of 250 lights were replaced with these LED fittings:
> 12 x Lumos SL- 48 street lights are now used to illuminate the site roadways
> 38 x Lumos CP- 48 fittings are used to light the site car parks
> 200 x Lumos HB- 60 high bay fittings have been installed in the plant area
The total installed cost of the LED lighting solution including the sophisticated control system was £148, 824 which was fully funded by an interest- free loan from the Carbon Trust.
The monthly loan repayments that G24i are now making are outstripped by their monthly energy savings. The estimated payback period for the project is just 18 months, after which the new system will have been fully paid.
The life of the lights is up to 50, 000 hours after which time the client will have made savings in the region of £850, 000 as the lights are run on a 24/ 7 basis.
iVision have helped G24i to make carbon savings of 483 tonnes per annum, this is equivalent to taking 159 cars off the road.

The bar chart shows the huge energy savings that the project has achieved through the installation of the new lighting and control system.
Renewable Energy
G24i have recently been granted permission to build their own wind turbine.
With the new LED lighting from iVision now in place, G24i believe that once erected, the turbine will generate enough energy to power the company’s huge site as well as supplying power to surrounding homes and businesses.
Eliot Abel, G24i’s Sustainability Programmes Manager, comments: “We have worked incredibly hard to become a 100% ‘green’ factory and are delighted to have now received full permission to realise this dream. We have the backing of the local Government and environmental groups.”
Why did G24i choose iVision ?
> iVision has more than 25 years experience in the lighting industry
> Products have proven record of high quality, efficiency and reliability
> UK manufacturer, all products covered by a 3- year warranty
> iVision solutions include lighting control systems that deliver additional savings
If you would like further information on the G24i project, have any questions or queries about anything that you have read or you would like to hear more about us and what we can offer you then please get in touch...
Contact:
Chris Davies,
Business Development Manager
iVision UK Ltd,
Web: www.ivisionuk.com
E- Mail: chris.davies@ivisionuk.com

New Acrovyn Hydroclad sheet is ideal for hygienically sensitive locations
Ideal for hygienically sensitive locations such as clean rooms and pharmaceutical laboratories, Acrovyn Hydroclad from Construction Specialties (UK) Ltd is a new, easy-to-clean, impact-resistant cladding for internal walls. The product has a smooth, impervious surface, which harbours no germs, fungi or bacteria. It is available in white and also five other colours at no additional cost.
Supplied in 2mm thick sheets, Hydroclad is quickly and easily applied to the surface of a wall with adhesive. Jointing options include colour-matched C/S Mastic or Trim sections or, for a superior hygienic finish, sheets may be welded. Longer-lasting than paint, and moisture-resistant, Hydroclad provides a complete and cost-effective way of achieving a smooth hygienic surface.
Hydroclad is fire-rated to BS476 Class 1 and is resistant to chemicals, acids, alkalis and grease. Frequent cleaning will not damage the surface or degrade its anti-bacterial properties and anti-fungal properties.
For more information -
Website: www.c-sgroup.co.uk

Pressalit care meets changing places requirements
Pressalit Care’s Nursing Bench can be height adjusted using a hand control. It folds neatly against the wall after use.
Pressalit Care’s ergonomically designed washbasin can be power adjusted for height, meeting the requirements of Changing Places as detailed in BS8300:2009
Height-adjustable products, as specified for the new Changing Places facilities detailed in BS8300:2009 – ‘Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people’ - can be met from Pressalit Care’s range of specialist bathroom solutions.
With over thirty years experience of producing carefully designed accessible bathroom products for hygiene rooms, toilet and shower facilities, Pressalit Care’s ergonomic washbasins and nursing benches can be power adjusted to suit the individual requirements of users and their carers safely and comfortably.
The new British Standard (BS8300:2009) recommends the use of a “large power assisted height-adjustable washbasin” and a “height-adjustable showering/changing bench”.
The British Standard describes a Changing Places facility as a “combined toilet, shower and changing room for use by people with complex and multiple disabilities who require the help of up to two assistants.” It states that “any larger building where the public have access in numbers, or where visitors might be expected to spend longer periods of time, is a suitable venue for a Changing Places facility.”
It recommends that such a facility should be provided in buildings such as major transport termini, motorway services, shopping centres, sport and leisure facilities, civic and cultural buildings, educational and health establishments.
The ergonomically designed Pressalit Care Washbasin can be height adjusted either electrically or by gas cylinder level control, offering a comfortable position for the user. The concave front edge of the basin stabilises a standing as well as a seated user, while the rounded edges are easy to grip or lean against.
The Pressalit Care 1800mm Nursing Bench has a range of options that can adapt to the user or carer’s particular needs. It can be raised from a height of 300mm up to 1000mm by means of a wall-mounted lifting unit, easily adjusted with a hand control.
Suitable for use when showering or changing, and designed with maximum safety and comfort in mind, the Nursing Bench has a slightly curved profile with foam cushions preventing any discomfort from cold, hard surfaces, and a safety rail which folds away under the Bench when not in use. Importantly, the Pressalit Care Nursing Bench can be folded away against the wall after use, allowing for maximum use of available space.
The Pressalit Care range also includes hinged arm supports and vertical grab rails as recommended by the British Standard for use in a Changing Places facility.
Providing long-term solutions designed and produced to the highest standards, meeting best practice and offering value for money, the Pressalit Care range of adjustable products future-proof a bathroom, reducing the need for further adaptations or reconfigurations. Pressalit Care offers a free design and quotation service.
www.pressalitcare.co.uk

Net2 Hands-free Increases Safety, Security and Aids Disabled Access at National Star College
National Star College is a national independent specialist college for young disabled students.
The college helps students fulfil their potential through innovative programmes of education and independence training.
The improving facilities and considerable funds invested in accommodation allow students with more severe and complex conditions to attend from across the UK. A vibrant social community makes the college much more than a learning provider.
Gerald Noble, Projects Engineer and Lynette Barrett the Residential Services Manager, decided that improving security for the students should be part of the college development plan.
When Net2 from Paxton Access was recommended, the new hands-free capability was an added bonus as some of the students struggled to use conventional locks and keys.
Lynette said: “The Net2 system appeared to be very easy to manage, could expand with our needs and had the added advantage of offering contactless hands-free access.”
Many of the doors in the residencies are now hands-free enabled with automatic door openers, meaning that every individual benefits from the system.
Net2 hands-free is great for buildings that need to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act. Some of the students attach the tokens to their wheelchairs and the proximity readers pick up the signal and unlock the door as they approach.
Lynette said: “It’s a busy place and Net2 has helped to increase privacy and made students more independent - something they strive for and are proud of.”
For more information tel: 01273 811011 or outside UK +44 1273 811011

Reliance FM to provide ‘Joined-Up’ Service For Hospira
Reliance Facilities Management has secured an integrated services contract with Hospira Aseptic Services who provide chemotherapy and parenteral nutrition products from facilities in London and Aston, Birmingham.
Hospira has selected Reliance Facilities Management to provide an integrated service package. Leveraging the Reliance Group capability, this deal will see Reliance Facilities Management provide planned and reactive maintenance services and cleaning with Reliance Patrol Net as the service partner for mobile security.
Paul Crilly, Deputy Chairman, says “this contract further endorses the Reliance team’s capability to deliver a customer centric integrated service solution.”

Support for Whitehall streetscape
Purcell Miller Tritton is pleased to announce the completion of the first stages of a major programme of improvements to London’s iconic Whitehall, where the practice is appointed as project architect.
The £25m ‘Whitehall Streetscape Improvement Project’ sees the Cabinet Office and Westminster City Council working together to deliver a major reinvigoration of the urban environment in which people live and work, as well as tourist sites. The overarching aim of the scheme is to introduce more robust security measures in a manner sympathetic to the local environment and its historical setting, alongside other improvements, in order to achieve a truly world-class built environment.
Whitehall is one of the most important and best known streets in the UK. It is at the heart of an area of enormous historical significance and is home to the Cenotaph as well as the National Monument to the Women of World War II, which is why great care is being taken to protect its unique heritage. Best quality craftsmanship and traditional materials, such as Portland and York stone are being used throughout the scheme to ensure that improvements are presented in a manner befitting their historic location. English Heritage is also heavily involved in documenting the area’s rich past during the works.
The extensive improvements include; widening of pavements and public highways, alterations to traffic management, more pedestrian crossings and better access for buses, taxis and cycles. Further work allows for the provision of new and improved street lighting and safer viewing areas for visitors to the location’s many attractions. Streets benefiting from the alterations include; Horse Guards Road, Parliament Street and Victoria Embankment, as well as Whitehall itself.
In recognition of the project’s superior design, the excellence of the development and the effective and appropriate use of security systems within the public realm, the Whitehall Streetscape Project was awarded the prestigious, Institution of Highways and Transportation’s Security in the Public Realm Award, 2008.
Construction work has already begun and the entire scheme is due to be completed by late 2010.
Commenting on the scheme, Mark Hammond, Project Partner from Purcell Miller Tritton said
“This project shows that with sensitive design and good team work, significant interventions can successfully be made into the most important urban landscapes that integrate practical security requirements with historically important architecture”.