Buildings
to Deliver a Key Element of Government's Energy Policy Targets
BRE
reviews and comments on the government's recent Energy White Paper.
The government’s Energy White Paper, published on 24th February,
sets out its goals and targets for reducing emissions of carbon dioxide
by 60% by 2050. In achieving this long-term target, and an intermediate
target of reductions of 15-25 Million tonnes of Carbon (MtC) by 2020,
energy efficiency is identified as delivering half of the necessary improvements.
For the first time, increasing the energy efficiency of buildings is identified
as the cheapest, cleanest and safest way of achieving the government’s
policy objectives - a view that BRE strongly endorses. However, there
is a real risk that this important commitment will be forgotten in the
more contentious argument associated with nuclear, renewable and conventional
electricity generation.
Increased use of renewable energy sources are expected to deliver a further
saving of 3-5MtC. While much of this will come from wind and other large-scale
generation, there is significant scope for integrating renewable energy
technologies directly into buildings. The White Paper also identifies
the need to improve metering so as to manage embedded generation.
Of the energy efficiency improvements needed (beyond those already committed
as part of the Climate Change Programme) half are expected to come from
households and half from business and the public sector. This implies
a very challenging doubling of the rate of energy efficiency improvements
achieved over the past 30 years.
The White Paper identifies a number of measures that the government proposes
to use to achieve these aims. Those related to buildings include:
* Extending (to possibly twice the current level) the Energy Efficiency
Commitment (EEC) which requires fuel utilities to support measures such
as the installation of cavity wall insulation in dwellings and possibly
extending the EEC to cover some non-domestic customers.
* Bringing forward to 2005 the next revision of Part L of the Building
Regulations, to further tighten standards for all new buildings, refurbishments
and improvements such as boiler replacements. The last revision of Part
L took seven years to implement and given previous experience in persuading
the industry to sign up to such improvements, the two year target for
implementation will be very challenging.
* Implementing the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, with
ODPM taking the lead, supported by DTI and DEFRA.
* Working with the European Commission and industry to. encourage higher
efficiency standards for traded goods such as household appliances and
office equipment.
* Increasing the funding available for grant support to renewable energy
generation.
* Developing the emissions trading scheme on an EU-wide basis.
* Linking the drive to a low carbon future to the wider work on sustainable
construction - in particular looking at opportunities for carbon reduction
associated with off-site construction.
* Developing the energy services market as a means for providing efficient
services to a range of customers.
* Requiring, as part of the forthcoming Housing Bill, a sellers pack which
promotes energy efficiency to ensure all homebuyers have information on
the energy performance of the homes they are buying.
* Holding a Better Buildings Summit, chaired jointly by DEFRA, DTI and
ODPM, to address all these issues. It will clearly be important to engage
with all those organisations with something positive to contribute, and
to maintain the momentum generated; BRE is keen to play its part.
The White Paper also proposes a vision of new homes which consume very
little energy, and even perhaps result in zero carbon emissions. It highlights
the benefits of community heating schemes and of the use of local renewable
generation.
However the White Paper does not promise any additional funding to achieve
the very challenging doubling of the past rate of energy efficiency improvements
and there is no clear commitment (other than further consultation) regarding
the introduction of new fiscal measures to promote greater energy efficiency.
BRE is also concerned by the reliance placed in the White Paper upon promising
but unproven technologies, such as micro-CHP. After 20 years the market
penetration of condensing boilers (evolutionary in technology terms) in
the UK is still only 12%. A major investment in research, development
and market transformation will be required to achieve a significant take-up
of radically new technologies, particularly if there are major infrastructure
issues to be resolved.
Dr David Strong, Managing Director of BRE’s Energy Division says,
'BRE welcomes the main provisions of the White Paper. Despite the lack
of detail regarding how the declared energy efficiency improvements are
to be achieved or funded, we look forward to working with the government
and other stakeholders to develop the implementation plan which will detail
how the energy efficiency strategy will be delivered.'
OFT
Launches Codes Regime to Business
The
OFT recently unveiled its new ‘approved code’ logo at the launch
of its consumer codes approval scheme to UK business. The new regime will
benefit consumers by driving up standards of customer service and will
reward qualifying businesses by helping to build consumer confidence.
The Association of British Travel Agents Ltd (ABTA) is the latest trade
body to have successfully completed stage one of the two-stage process
for OFT approval of its consumer code of practice. This means that its
revised code of practice meets the core criteria set out by the OFT. The
next stage will involve ABTA demonstrating that the promises made at stage
one have been delivered in practice.
ABTA is the fourth trade association to achieve stage one status for its
code of practice and joins the Vehicle Builders and Repairers Association
Ltd (PN 69b/02), the Ombudsman for Estate Agents Company Ltd (PN 69a/02) and
the Direct Selling Association (84/02).
The code approval scheme consists of two stages:
Stage one – the code sponsor makes a promise that its code
meets the OFT’s core criteria in principle. The sponsor must make
sure its code contains measures designed to remove or ease consumer concerns
and undesirable trading practices in its sector
Stage two – the code sponsor must prove its code lives up
to the initial promise. The burden of proof lies with the sponsor. The
sponsor must show that the code is being effectively implemented and that
consumer disputes are properly resolved.
Codes that successfully achieve the second stage will be able to carry
the OFT ‘approved code’ logo and receive official promotion.
The OFT will only approve and promote codes that are shown to safeguard
and promote consumers’ interests beyond the basic requirements of
the law. The first approved codes are expected to be announced in the
autumn.
Acknowledging the work already carried out by ABTA and other code sponsors,
John Vickers, Director General of Fair Trading, said:
‘Rigorous codes of practice are a key plank of effective self-regulation.
The Enterprise Act empowers the OFT to help self-regulation through promoting
good codes which are of real value to consumers and fair-dealing businesses.
The OFT’s new codes regime is now well under way.’
The OFT is currently developing a dedicated codes website which will be
operational later this year and will be promoting the codes approval scheme
through a programme of events targeted at UK businesses throughout the
UK. A launch promoting the scheme to consumers is planned for later this
year.
Over
1000 Catch the CAB Standards
More
than 1000 copies of the Council for Aluminium in Building's 'Setting the
Standard 6' guide have been sold in just two months highlighting the demand
for clear, concise and practical information on working with Part L.
Endorsed and vetted by BRE on behalf of the Government, 'Setting the Standard
No. 6' is the latest in a series of technical guides published by the
Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) as part of its package of benefits
to members and the wider aluminium industry.
Aluminium's monopoly as the definitive material for the commercial fenestration
sector and a resurgence of interest in the domestic sector, mean that
the guide has become an essential tool for specifiers, manufacturers and
fabricators.
Indicative window U-values; measuring thermal performance; calculations
and presentation of results are all covered along with guidance on the
implications for curtain walling; rooflights and overhead glazing; shopfronts
and conservatories.
The CAB is committed to promoting the use of aluminium in building and
a vast array of technical and business support, such as the unique 'Setting
the Standard' guides, is available to its members, which are drawn from
all sectors of the industry from supply to manufacturing and installation.
'Setting the Standard No. 6' can be obtained by calling the CAB on 01453
828851 or by fax on 01453 828861.
Web: http://www.c-a-b.org.uk
Group Deceuninck enters new premises in Czech Republic
Group Deceuninck, worldwide producer of PVC-U window systems and building profiles, has moved its Deceuninck Spol subsidiary into a brand new office, warehouse and training centre in the Czech Republic. An investment of 3.5 million euro is involved.
The new premises are located in Popuvky near Brno, on an almost two-hectare area. The 3.5 million euro investment covers the construction of a 4,400 m2 new office to accommodate the administrative, commercial, technical and logistical services. 'The Czech subsidiary of Deceuninck developed well in 2002. To be able to keep customer service, performance and long-term development at a high level, investments had to be made', says CEO Clement De Meersman.
The industrial premises in Popuvky are approximately five times larger than those in Veversk Bitöka where Deceuninck had its office in the past. Special new services, like the bending of PVC-U profiles, will be developed and offered to the window fabricators. Apart from this, SynergeBuild, the Deceuninck e-commerce application, is being introduced to the customers. Deceuninck Spol employs 32 people.
The Central and Eastern European Deceuninck subsidiaries did well in 2002. Together they increased their sales by 7.4%. In the Deceuninck Group they realise 15% of total sales.
The Deceuninck Group is an integrated group of world format, specialised in compounding, design, development, extrusion, finishing and recycling of PVC-U systems and profiles for the building industry. The company is active in 32 countries, has 18 subsidiaries (production and/or sales) and is supported by 1786 personnel, with 560 in Hooglede-Gits. Deceuninck are number three in their sector world-wide and achieved consolidated sales of 362.4 million EUR in 2002.
sdea
Sponsors International Display Week
sdea
is to sponsor the niche London display show, International Display Week,
for the first time. The show will be held at the Business Design Centre
from 5th to 7th March. Visitors will see over 80 specialist retail display
companies; many are sdea members. The show is a haven for creative talent
– great for retailers and visual merchandisers sourcing new and interesting
display ideas.
Visitors to the sdea stand can also claim a free copy of the latest sdea
Directory. Packed full of innovative and exciting products and services
for retail display, it has plenty to offer the most discerning buyer including
an informative editorial section, comprehensive supplier contact details
and descriptions, an extensive full colour photo gallery offering a visual
interpretation of the products and services offered, and quick reference
guides.
Companies within the industry will also find information on sdea membership
and those who join at the show will receive a free showcase in the new
Directory being published in May. Companies will benefit from the many
sales leads, savings and services sdea provides.
Web: http://www.sdea.com
Staff
at Shepley didn't realise how many of their colleagues were famous until
launching a look-a-like competition in their employee newsletter. 'We
had lots of entries for the competition,' comments James Brisbane, marketing
manager of Shepley, 'so many, we felt there had to be two winners. Shrek
and Mini-me won the day.' To see more famous look-a-likes working at Shepley
please visit http://www.shepley.com
or download the PDF here.
PS: At the Gl@zine, we think Ming the Merciless (aka Brian MacDonald)
deserves a special mention (were they separated at birth or what?). We
also think a special prize for 'wishful thinking' should go to MD Gary
Torr who hopes he looks like Bill Clinton (or perhaps it's the boardroom
antics with Monica where the similarity lies...).
PPS.
We're still not sure what the point of it all was either.
Tel: 0161 339 2433
Email: mailto:james.brisbane@shepley.com
If
only Brian had scowled like Ming, and not tried to smile.
Italian
Hardware Giant Forms UK Company
AGB
spa ofItaly has announced the formation of Alban Giacomo UK Ltd (AGB UK
Ltd).
Having recently moved into its UK Warehouse AGB UK Ltd is able to offer
the full range of multi point dobr bolts suitable for use on PVCu and
timber systems together with the full range of system dedicated keeps.
In addition AGB UK will carry stocks ofthe Alfa shoot bolt espagnolette
system developed specifically for the UK market.
'Our aim is to build on and improve our existing service into the UK'
says AGB UK.
Phone (01603) 716009
Email: mailto:clemmett.tim@agb.it
Schott
Makes Good Start to Year - 250m Euros Invested in Capital Equipment
The
Schott Group recorded an increase of 5% for both order intake and sales
in the first four months of the 2002/03 fiscal year (to Sept. 30th). 'We
have made a good start and, in spite of difficult background conditions,
we have the chance of seeing the current fiscal year turn successfully
in business terms', said Chairman of the Board of Management Dr. Leopold
von Heimendahl at the annual results press conference in Frankfurt am
Main. As regards the year as a whole he felt that sales growth in the
low single figures was conceivable, but pointed to a number of uncertainties
which could have an influence on the way the business developed.
The technology group’s current business is marked by the weak world
economy. In some areas negative influences from the semiconductor and
telecommunications industries are being felt. Overall the picture differs
widely in the various markets and regions.
In the 'Home Tech' Strategic Business Unit 'Ceran' glass-ceramic cooktops
and processed flat glass products are continuing their growth pattern.
Sales of Ceran® in Europe and Japan are positive, while the market
in North America is turning out to be weaker than in the previous year.
In the case of television glass, the core activity of 'Display Solutions',
Schott has consolidated its position as a partner to the most important
European tube manufacturers. The trend towards large and flat screens
continues.
In the 'Advanced Optical Materials and Components' Strategic Business
Unit there is good demand for reflectors for digital projection, while
the slack period in the semiconductor industry is being carried over to
the growth tempo in components for chip manufacture.
The 'Opto-Electronics' Strategic Business Unit is showing good demand
in electronic packaging components for automotive and consumer electronics
and also for fibre optic components for automobile lighting and medical
technology. Demand from the telecommunications and semiconductor industries
continues to be unsatisfactory.
There has been a slow-down in the many years of growth for the 'Pharmaceutical
Systems' Strategic Business Unit. In the case of ampoules and vials for
the pharmaceutical industry the expansion of production facilities in
Indonesia and a new factory in the United States are expected to contribute
to a further improvement in the group’s global position. Business
continues to be unsatisfactory in special glass tubing for microelectronics,
chemistry and lighting.
To strengthen existing businesses and for new activities Schott will be
maintaining its comprehensive commitment to research and development and
will press on with its innovation offensive. On top of this in the 2002/03
fiscal year it will be making an investment in tangible assets amounting
to some 250 million euros.
Focal areas in the building up of future businesses are several high-tech
areas. These include TFT glasses for notebook screens and flat television
sets. Schott will be making an entry into this growth market around the
middle of the year. At that time the world’s most modern float glass
plant producing high quality thin glasses will go on stream in Jena.
The technology concern also sees some highly promising prospects in the
field of solar energy. In photovoltaics RWE Schott Solar GmbH already
occupies the leading position in Germany. A manufacturing facility with
a 60 MW annual production capacity is currently being built at Alzenau
(Bavaria). With this the company will have at its disposal an integrated
production facility for silicon wafers, solar cells and solar modules
that is unique in the world.
In the case of solar heating technology Schott is building up manufacturing
capacity for its innovative vacuum tube collector.
Other products in the technology concern’s spotlight include optical
materials for the semiconductor industry. Here Schott Lithotec AG occupies
the pole position worldwide with calcium fluoride monocrystals in these
key components for chip manufacture.
Future areas of business also include coating solutions for adding value
to plastic components. The Schott range covers both full-scale production
to customer orders and also the building of complete coating plants. Examples
of products which can be treated in this way include display covers for
mobile telephones and lenses with anti-scratch and/or anti-reflective
coatings. A further application is the barrier coating of PET bottles,
which prevents premature release of carbon dioxide from drinks.
Schott Defied the Weak World Economy in 2001/02
In the 2001/02 fiscal year Schott performed better than could have been
expected at the beginning of the fiscal year. The technology concern achieved
sales of 1.956 billion euros (2000/01: 2.004 billion euros). The foreign
share of this remained unchanged at 79%. The annual surplus improved by
8 million euros to 60 million euros. Cash flow before profits taxes was
299 million euros, i.e. 15% of sales. At 216 million euros investment
in tangible assets and other areas remained at a high level. As at September
30, 2002 the Schott Group employed 19,900 people, just under half of these
being in Germany.
Schott is an international technology-driven group that sees its core
purpose as the lasting improvement of living and working conditions through
special materials and high-tech solutions. Its main areas of focus are
the household appliances industry, optics and opto-electronics, pharmaceuticals,
information technology, consumer electronics, lighting, automotive engineering
and solar energy. Schott has a presence in close proximity to its customers
through highly efficient production and sales companies in all its major
markets. It has 19,900 employees producing worldwide sales of 2 billion
euros. The company’s technological and economic expertise is closely
linked with its social and ecological responsibility.
AFG
Announces a $30 Million Coating Facility in Abingdon, Virginia
AFG
Industries of Kingsport, TN, announced on February 4th the selection of
a site in Abingdon, VA, for its new coating plant. The 97,500 square foot
facility will be built in the Oak Park Center for Business and Industry
and will employ about 70 upon completion in mid-2004. The new plant will
house a vacuum coater used primarily to fabricate AFG’s Comfort Ti®
family of low-emissivity and solar control coatings for the residential
and commercial window markets.
AFG’s coaters are also used to coat front surface mirrors (projection
televisions), touch panels, plasma displays and solar panels for geothermal
(heating) and photovoltaics, and electro-chromic coatings for smart windows.
AFG also has coating facilities in Hampton, IA, Victorville, CA and Toronto,
Canada.
D. Roger Kennedy, president and CEO of AFG said, 'Our home and headquarters
is in Northeastern Tennessee, and we are excited to have our third coater
in this region. We appreciate the extraordinary joint effort of Virginia,
Washington County, Virginia’s Corridor and the City of Abingdon in
bringing us this opportunity to prosper together.' Kennedy further stated,
'AFG is dedicated to growth by creating sustainable value for our flat
glass and technology customers. Our Comfort Ti family of products, which
will be produced at this plant, are among the most effective energy savings
products in the world today, and this new coater will provide us the opportunity
to serve the growing Southeastern market by providing a low cost technology
to reduce air conditioning loads.'
Kennedy also announced that Ed Wegener would be the plant manager. Wegener
has had 15-years experience in glass vacuum coating and will be re-locating
from Tucson, AZ to Abingdon with his wife and son. Mr. Wegener joins AFG
from Apogee Enterprises where he was most recently, Vice President and
General Manager of TerraSun LLC that is an Apogee joint venture. Previously,
he had been Vice President of Viracon’s Coating Division where he
had started in 1985 as a materials manager. Mr. Wegener holds a BBA from
the University of Memphis and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas
in St. Paul, MN.
The coater is being manufactured by Applied Film Industries Longmont,
CO, and will be built at their plant in Alzenau, Germany. This will be
AFG’s third, state-of-the-art, coater, and will provide AFG customers
with leading edge, energy savings coatings. AFG is the second largest
flat glass manufacturer in North America and a part of the Flat Glass
Company of the Asahi Group, which is the largest flat glass manufacturer
in the world. In the Tri-Cities, in addition to their Kingsport corporate
headquarters, AFG operates the Blue Ridge Plant in Kingsport and Greenland
Plant in Church Hill.
'Superwood'
Ready for UK Production - TimbaPlus takes Delivery of new Extruder to
Create new 'PolyTimba' Product
A
new building material, produced from a combination of wood and thermoplastics,
with all the positive benefits of both wood and plastic and none of the
problems traditionally associated with each, is now in production.
PolyTimba can be produced in up to an 80/20 wood/polymer mixture which
requires zero maintenance. It overcomes the negative aspects of wood moisture
absorption leading to movement and rot, and termite attack - while also
eliminating the thermal and UV instability associated with plastic.
The
product, produced in the UK by TimbaPlus of Coleshill in Birmingham, which
took delivery of new extrusion equipment just before Christmas, can be
produced using waste wood and fully recycled plastic, making it very environmentally
friendly.
'Used outside, untreated, PolyTimba will weather in much the same way
as oak, developing the typical grey patina in a relatively short time,'
says David Mattia (pictured), managing director of TimbaPlus, 'Our extruded
profiles produce minimal waste but any that may occur can be returned
for recycling.'
Price comparisons reveal that PolyTimba is competitive with soft wood
and plastic but substantially less expensive than the hard woods it so
closely emulates. The product can be worked in the same way as wood and
has very similar properties.
TimbaPlus is making a £2 million plant and machinery investment
in the production of PolyTimba.
'UK responses, from the doors, windows and building industries, have been
extremely favourable and we have also received interest from house builders
ain other parts of the world, including Australia and South Africa where
wood suffers from constant termite attack,' says David Mattia.
Web: http://www.timbaplus.com
Fischer's
Undercut Anchoring System Wins CTRL Endorsement
The
Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL) has become the latest major construction
project to specify undercut anchoring systems from fischer's department
for Advanced Curtainwalling Technology.
The CTRL has specified both the fischer Zykon Panel Anchor (FZP) for use
in stone, as well as the Micropoint FZP-G undercut glass anchoring system
and System One Profile bracket system.
This will now be the third major London construction project to use the
FZP-G. This new system features patented technology to enable building
designers to achieve a totally flush glass facade which has no fixings
penetrating through to the outside of the glazing.
In addition to using FZP undercut anchors on 2,100sq m of stone, CTRL
is the largest infrastructure project anywhere in the world so far to
specify the new FZP-G glass anchor. The consortium developing the project,
Rail Link Engineering, has specified Micropoint for use in glass facades
at both Ebbsfleet and Stratford International stations.
Benefits of the Micropoint system include the elimination of expansion
stresses and sealing problems within the glass, as well as reduced thermal
bridging and a lack of dirt accumulation on the panel surface. The system
is likely to be used on glass lift shafts within the station complexes.
In such applications, the fact that there is no protrusion through the
glass will offer a big safety advantage.
Force
8 Roll Call Pays Dividends
Window
and door manufacturer, Force 8, has made life easier for its employees
by investing in a Rotox machine, which is currently helping to reducing
labour by approximately 20%, allowing staff to concentrate on other areas
of the profile manufacturing business, which is resulting in a saving
of time and costs.
The technologically advanced machine, imported from Germany, is used by
Force 8 strictly in conjunction with its supplier, Veka 's PVC profiles
which arrive on the premises with pre-inserted gaskets. The Rotox is used
to machine the corners and transomes under the gasket seals reducing the
risk of glass breakage and ensuring a perfect finish. The continuous welded
seal eliminates potential problems with shrinkage around windows and doors
so reducing the need for what can be expensive service calls.
The functionability of the recently purchased Rotox, which means that
Force 8 can order profiles with pre-inserted gaskets, takes away the time-consuming
job of inserting the gaskets manually - cited as one of the least popular
tasks for the workforce.
Managing Director, Dennis Sumner reports an increase in productivity since
acquiring the machine: 'By using the Rotox and benefiting from what is
now a more efficient use of time, we are fulfilling our customer service
pledge, which is a guaranteed one-week turnaround on all orders. One day
all profiles will be made with rolled-in gaskets. Until then, by taking
the initiative and being one of the first to invest, Force 8 has one of
the happiest teams in the UK, with a consistent level of high-performance,
and we don't have any complaints about sore thumbs!'
Force 8 Fabrications is a family-owned and operated business which manufactures
and supplies windows, doors and conservatories to installers and fabricators
all over Europe. Its product portfolio includes a range of design variations
to meet all requirements, including arched and unusually shaped styles.
Dennis Sumner will be unveiling the company's latest offering at Glassex
2003, which is intended to surprise and delight installers and builders
nationwide. The one-piece Georgian bow window consists of an easy-to-fit
single frame rather than an assortment of pieces to be fitted together.
Tel: 0161 483 1997
Web: http://www.force8.info
NFB
Sets Sights on Smaller Firms
The
National Federation of Builders has announced the introduction of a lower-priced
subscription fee designed to attract smaller building firms into membership.
The new £200 fee, to be launched in the spring, will apply to companies
with a turnover below £200,000.
A spokesperson for the NFB said: 'We’re keen to work with smaller,
professional companies to help them raise their sights and standards and
compete in new markets as they grow.
'Many of these firms could operate as sub-contractors to our existing
members, so it’s in everyone’s interest to help them improve
their businesses and so improve the overall quality of the supply chain.
Today’s building companies need more than just a badge if they’re
going to stay in business.
'Encouraging such companies to join will also give them the added benefit
of being able to participate in the NFB programme which helps firms achieve
Quality Mark registration.'
The spokesperson added: 'We were encouraged by the recommendations made
in the Atkins report into Quality Mark and we do not share the Luddite
response of at least one trade association.
'In the words of the DTI, it’s time for those organisations to put
up or shut up.
'Those who wish to ignore market developments should not be allowed to
hinder the industry’s development.
'The DTI’s patience is commendable, but we’re keen to see them
take action and give an ultimatum to such trade associations who can only
snipe at the scheme rather than play a constructive role.
'Quality Mark will provide a route into other markets beyond the domestic
marketplace.'
Glass
Training explains how Proskills works
The
Editor of the GTL newsletter made the following comments:
'We have been asked by some employers to describe how the new Proskills
organisation will work with employers. Proskills primarily, will be an
'enabling organisation', that means enabling employers to enhance what
they want to do to reduce skill gaps in their workforces. It will also
help employers to identify present and future skill shortages and do something
about them in conjunction with other employers and the Learning and Skills
Councils in England, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise
in Scotland, ELWa in Wales and The Department for Employment and Learning
in Northern Ireland. On most occasions Proskills will work with groups
or clusters of employers nationally or regionally in England, Wales, Northern
Ireland and Scotland.
'Proskills will work through Glass Training Ltd (GTL), Federations and
regional clusters of employers to get things done. It will also deal directly
with employers if required to do so. It will attempt to identify the concerns
with the present arrangements for provision of training in the sector.
It will also identify the issues that need attention to ensure employers
invest in training to meet their own needs. Proskills core services staff
will be funded by Government through the SSDA. To receive this funding
we need to show that employers are contributing cash direct to Proskills
or through GTL or via a Federation. This cash needs to be used to directly
support Proskills Strategic Development Plan. For whatever reason, if
this is not a workable proposition then the Government has the authority
to ask Proskills to raise funds from employers through a direct training
levy. The arrangements for raising levy are already on statute.
'Proskills has to produce Labour Market Information and the resulting
definition of skill requirements both now and in the future. Proskills
also has to produce a Sector Workforce Development Plan that will identify
the priorities for the next 18 months. The priorities will be decided
from employer issues. Priorities will lead to sector projects, many of
which, will span the six industries coming together to form Proskills.
'Employers should now start to contact Proskills to let them know what
they think the issues are, so that, an early start can be made in finalising
the projects for the first 18 months. A strategic development plan for
Proskills has been developed and widely circulated. This document is required
by the Sector Skills Development Agency so that Proskills can receive
a Licence to operate as an SSC.
'Glass Training Ltd will continue in existence for the foreseeable future
as it is this subscription income that allows the glass industry as a
whole, to be part of the alliance of Proskills. The Glass and Glazing
Federation (GGF) has underwritten the GTL bid to be part of Proskills
by offering the shortfall of funding required to take part. Without both
the GTL and GGF cash contributions the glass industry would not be part
of the Proskills organisation.'
Other highlights of this issue include the following:
Workforce Development Plans
Workforce Development Plans are more than the traditional training plans.
There are significant benefits that can result from an effective company
workforce development plan. For more information contact mailto:alan@glass-training.co.uk
Management and Supervisory Management Qualifications
Many experienced managers have not received any formal learning in management.
GTL has developed a distance learning programme in Management or Supervisory
Management. Those companies, who for regulatory reasons, require their
managers to hold a recognised qualification in management need to apply.
Quality standards regulatory bodies request evidence that all employees
including managers are competent to do the job. Construction skills cards
are also required of managers and supervisors as well as those directly
working on sites in the commercial sector of the construction and building
industry. For more information contact mailto:mike@glass-training.co.uk
Training the Trainers
Training officers would be a luxury for many organisations although someone
with the responsibility for co-ordinating training and development could
benefit from the GTL programme 'Training the Trainer'. Many people support
the training of new starters and ensure that all employees progress through
a range of tasks to a high standard. We suggest that each of your sections
will have someone who trains others to ensure the work is completed to
a high standard. This programme provides support to the on-line trainer
as well as the training co-ordinator. For more information contact mailto:denis@glass-training.co.uk
Mobile Phones Switch Young People On To Learning
Young people could soon be using mobile phones as a learning tool to help
improve their English and maths, according to the findings of new research
from the Learning and Skills Development Agency (LSDA). In a survey of
young adults' use of mobile phones, almost half expressed an interest
in using a learning game on their mobile to improve their reading, spelling
or maths. More than half also indicated that the mobile phone had transformed
the way in which they communicate with others. For more information visit
http://www.lsda.org.uk/home.asp
SSDA Issues Invitation To Tender
The Sector Skills Development Agency has issued an Invitation to Tender
for a feasibility study to be undertaken into the development and implementation
of a database of National Occupational Standards. More details at: http://www.ssda.org.uk/cgi-bin/go.pl/news/show_latest.html?uid=84
More employers back unions
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has hailed a big increase in the number
of employers recognising unions, although it says there are still some
"resistant ones to crack". For more information visit this
link
Survey Reveals One In Two Brits Plagued By Distressing Dreams About
Work
Britain is officially a nation of work worriers, reveals a new survey
released today by learndirect, the UK's largest e-learning network. Longer
working hours and additional job pressures are penetrating the subconscious
as more than one in two adults (57 per cent) admit to suffering nightmares
about their jobs. For more information visit this
link
Glass Processing Consumables from Ken
Bohle
is now the exclusive UK distributor of BEVELOX the premium grade chemical-mechanical
cerium oxide bevel polishing compound, now to be called 'BEVELOX by Bohle'.
To complement 'BEVELOX by Bohle', additional supportive products have
been introduced to the Bohle range. These include 'VELOX by Bohle' an
economy version of bevelling grade cerium oxide and 'Super-Nova', ready
mounted bevel polishing felts which eliminate messy glueing and time wasting
drying time, just bolt them on and go.
These
products - and many others are now available through Ken Timperley, either
by phone of via his new website:
Tel: (0044) 0120 282 6407
Email: mailto:ken@glassequipment.com
Web: http://www.glassequipment.com
Improve
your Sales - Colour Rendering and Fabrication for Conservatories
PST
is offering its colour rendering software at the discounted price of £200.
Traditionally
known for providing manufacturing and fabrication software to conservatory
roofing companies in the UK, PST has long been able to superimpose a conservatory
onto a digital photograph.
This special promotion is to target existing customers of PMR-3D, the
fabrication software but who currently use other sales presentation software
in addition to PMR-3D.
'It makes no sense to use two different pieces of software for the same
contract' claims Marketing Director, Alastair Breckon. 'Our customers
already use PMR-3D to design, estimate and fabricate their conservatories
and sidewalls. We are giving them the opportunity to integrate their IT
strategy and avoid duplicating work. A realistic colour image helps sell
more roofs and this in turn will help drive fabrication.'
The software is easy to use and slots neatly alongside the existing software,
PMR-3D. The colour rendering addition to PMR-3D is supplied on a CD and
a help manual, both on-screen and in paper format is supplied.
The software has many features including:
- the ability to change the intensity and colour of the lighting
- choice of colours, finishes for profiles, flooring, dwarf walls, glass,
polycarbonate etc.
- saving the image using the jpeg format which can be open in many other
software packages
- importing a digital photo to be used as a backdrop
- easy positioning of the conservatory onto the backdrop using dragging
and zooming.
- no training required
- uses a design from PMR-3D, therefore no need to redraw to produce cutting
lists, estimates etc.
Contact Alastair Breckon
Tel: 0114 221 7070
Email: mailto:info@pstonline.co.uk
Web: http://www.pstonline.co.uk
New
Track Systems from DR Services
To
ensure the smooth operation of sliding panels, DR Services now offers
its Series 700 and Series 700 Junior range of sliding track hardware for
frameless glass systems. The Teufelbeschlag HSW Series 700 Standard Track
accommodates an extensive variety of panels up to a maximum weight of100kg
and a maximum size of 1OOO x 3000mm.
Aluminium
cover plates are available in a choice of anodised or powder coated options,
and can be clad in stainiess steel or brass for heightened visual appeal.
All double and single action doors feature a lock in the bottom door rail
for security and all sliding panels have an end or side operated shoot
bolt.
Alternatively, a self locking system can be substitute. Top rails are
fitted with one horizontal brush with the option of a bottom rail brush
if required. 10 and 12mm toughened glass with polished vertical edges
is recommended for the Series 700.
The Teufelbeschlag HSW Series 700 Junior Track has corner fittings with
aluminium cover plates at the top and bottom of each panel and is suitable
for panels up to 80kg in weight. The track is designed for end pivot leaf
for floorspring, end pivot leaf with floor bearing and sliding panels,
with 8 and 10mm toughened glass po.lished all round.
All double and single action doors have a shoot bolt lock with an internal
surface fixed shoot bolt for sliding panels. Anodised, powder coated and
stainless steel cover plates are standard with brass available as an option.
DR Services specialises in distribution and installation of equipment
to the construction industry with five main areas of expertise, including
frameless glass fittings. The company assists in design and provides a
product range from full sliding/stacking systems to simple pivoting systems
complete with all seals and latches.
Tel. 01992 447122
Email: mailto:drservices@themail.co.uk
Hunter
Douglas to Sponsor Archiprix
Hunter
Douglas, the producer of window coverings (Luxaflex) and a major manufacturer
of architectural products (Luxalon), has concluded a cooperation agreement
with The Archiprix Foundation, to become the main sponsor of the prestigious
'Archiprix Nederland' and Archiprix International prizes.
Archiprix International selects the world's outstanding university graduate
projects in the fields of architecture, town planning and landscaping
and presents them to an international jury of experts which will reward
the best with the Hunter Douglas Award.
The Archiprix Foundation initiated the first Archiprix International Prize,
in the Van Nelle factory, at the occasion of 'Rotterdam 2001 Cultural
Capital of Europe'. Hunter Douglas, as its main sponsor, used this venue
to organise an Architect's Day for its international relations in the
field of architecture.
Both organisations share the desire to promote young architects and to
internationally further creative architecture and design.
Hunter Douglas has its Head Office in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and
a Management Office in Lucerne, Switzerland. The Group is comprised of
151 companies with marketing organisations in more than a 100 countries.
The shares of Hunter Douglas are traded on the Dutch, Swiss and German
Stock Exchanges.
Tel.: 00 31 10 486.9510