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Modplan - The Secure Choice

Veka fabricator, Modplan Limited, has recently gained PAS 23 and 24 accreditation on its range of 58mm residential doors.

The company has held 'sold secure' approved fabricator status for some time now, which has proved successful for Modplan customers working in the domestic market. 'Installers have been able to take advantage of the benefits of 'Sold Secure' support' explains Darren Smart, quality and safety manager for Modplan, 'whilst the end user has enjoyed the assurance of enhanced security, plus the welcome benefit of discounted premiums from many insurance companies.'

Modplan says that the residential door range is just one very small example of how the team at Modplan is constantly trying to achieve what it considers to be its only true benchmark - total customer satisfaction.

'We know from working closely with our customers that consumers demand security as a priority from a residential door' continues Darren, 'achieving the PAS 23 / 24 standards can only enhance their peace of mind. But more importantly, it will be of particular interest to our customers working on private commercial and public sector applications.'

Conscious of the fact that end users require security without compromise to appearance, Modplan says that it goes to great lengths to ensure that the overall specification on its residential doors provides an appearance that is as pleasing as it is secure.

Combining quality profile from the Veka Matrix 58mm system, with a comprehensive range of panels and glazing options, Modplan offers a wide variety of styles within its residential door range. Security is enhanced through the use of a new hinge which provides added strength, combined with an anti-lift feature, whilst offering an adjustment facility that does not require the door leaf to be dismounted for ease of installation.

As you would expect from one of the largest Veka fabricators, there is a full range of colour options, available with co-ordinated door furniture and accessories to present the perfect finish. Low threshold solutions are also available for situations where ease of access is required for wheel chairs or prams.

Darren concludes, 'All components have been chosen to provide reliability, combined with a high quality, smooth finish, giving our customers the product solutions, durability and simplicity of installation they require to secure contracts with ease.'

Tel: 01495 246844

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Assurance for Swan from BM TRADA

Swan Windows and sister company, Swan Doors of Leicester place great emphasis upon the quality and high standards of their PVC-u and composite doors and windows ranges and as a long-term customer of BM TRADA, the importance of third party independent certification cannot be under-estimated, according to Swan's Systems Manager, Michelle Colman.

‘We have been working with BM TRADA for over five years and in line with its stringent testing procedures, have attained ISO 9000:2001 registration for the manufacture, supply and installation of our doors and windows,’ she comments.

‘Additionally, we have achieved Secured by Design on all our products, PAS 23 and PAS 24 weather performance and security, BS7412, BS7950 and FENSA accreditation. BM TRADA continually carries out site audits and provides the highest levels of service and support.’

For Swan Windows and Doors, third party certification is crucial for the company's clients, the majority of which are within the public sector. ‘Our impressive certification credentials are invaluable in securing a number of key contracts for housing associations and local authorities,’ continues Michelle.

‘Recent awards include: a five year contract with South Kesteven District Council for approximately 18,000 composite doors on a supply only partnership agreement; a two year contract for Charter Housing Association for PVC-u windows and composite doors on a supply and fit basis with partnering agreement; an eleven year contract with Linx Homes for PVC windows and doors supplying and fitting around 50,000 windows; and three contracts on a supply and fit basis with Oadby and Wigston Borough Council for approximately 500 doors.’

Tel: 01494 569607
Email: qmark@bmtrada.com
Web: http://www.bmtrada.com

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WindowPlus First in Scotland to Achieve Energy Rating

WindowPlus Ltd in Glasgow is the first Scottish PVCu window manufacturer to achieve a British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) energy rating. The company has achieved B, C and D ratings for its Spectus Elite 70 casement window range through BM TRADA Certification Ltd, one of only two independent agencies appointed by BFRC to carry out the scheme.

WindowPlus was established as a family business in 1984, manufacturing windows, doors, vertical sliders and conservatories for the replacement window industry. The company also supplies to housing associations, architects and the DIY market.

As Robert Tierney, General Manager, explained, 'The window industry is highly competitive and in response to this we decided to target the BFRC rating to add value to our products, with a view to giving both our customers and ourselves a further advantage over competitors.'

The company's decision has been fully supported by Spectus Window Systems. 'The Spectus Elite 70 is one of the most advanced window systems in Europe,' said Mr Tierney.

'That, plus the high level of marketing and technical support provided, will help us to spread the word and give us a further edge on quality.' Spectus in fact employs its own BFRC-certified simulators who produce the calculations required for the energy rating process, testimony to its own commitment to the scheme.

Robert Tierney, General Manager, WindowPlus (left) with Kirk Maxwell, area Sales Manager(Scotland), Spectus Window Systems

The BFRC scheme is gathering momentum in England, where it is already included in the Building Regulations. It is also supported by the Energy Saving Trust and Mr Tierney believes that it will soon gain a foothold in Scotland. 'We felt it was important for us to take full advantage of an excellent opportunity,' he added.

The scheme differs from other ways of measuring the thermal efficiency of windows in that it assesses the complete window to produce a single number to rank a specific window type. A higher BFRC Rating number indicates a more thermally-efficient window. The rating then falls into one of the BFRC A-G bands of the window energy label - similar to the brightly coloured label used on fridges, washing machines and light bulbs, now a familiar sight for consumers.

Robert Tierney said: 'Homeowners are now very well informed through marketing and media on the importance of conserving energy, both to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and to reduce the ongoing burden of ever increasing energy bills. The manufacturer or supplier who strives to secure the best value for money package for its customers will always put themselves in front of the competition.'

For further information on

* WindowPlus contact Robert or Colin on 0141 638 8141/ fax 0141 638 9982 or email office@windowplus.co.uk

* Spectus Window Systems contact Gareth Griffin on 01625 412749 or email gareth.griffin@spectus.co.uk

* BFRC Energy Rating Programme contact Andy Sumner of BM TRADA on 01502 679990 or email asumner@bmtrada.com. Visit also http://www.bmtrada.com.

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TWB Secure A Hatrick Of Awards

North Devon based Plastmo fabricator, TWB Ltd has recently gained a hat-trick of awards thanks to its overwhelming commitment to the trade and retail customer.

The company which is now in its 20th year in business has won the Quantal Regional Installer of the Year, gained the National Britannia Safecontractor accreditation and achieved Investor In People status. These awards are a reflection of the culture and commitment at the company which is run by managing director Paul Howarth.

Paul comments: 'We are no strangers to winning awards having won the Quantal Regional Installer of the Year award for the third time in a row. We believe that the success of the company is down to our staff and they can take much of the credit for these awards. If it wasn't for their dedication and commitment then we would not be offering such a high level of support to the customer.'

These awards can also be backed up by the fact that the company gains 88% of its business through recommendations and referrals.

Paul concludes: 'Our order book is a reflection of our overall ability as a business, but we are careful not to standstill. We continue to invest in training and development and in the infrastructure as a whole to ensure that we continue to maintain a high standard throughout the business. Our customers and staff are our most prized assets and at TWB that is something which we never forget.'

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Warmdor from Hallmark Meets Criteria

Hallmark Panels, in conjunction with Warmseal Windows, has achieved PAS 23-24 and Annex D accreditation for its Warmdor residential door range. The company has been producing the hugely popular Warmdor for many years and in order to confirm its performance, put it through the testing procedure to comply with the performance requirements specified by BSI for the award of Kitemark certification to PAS 23 and 24.

In November 2005 Warmseal became one of the first PVCu fabrication companies in the UK to achieve a Sold Secure Domestic Door Security award for the Warmdor: Bronze Level (full door) and Silver Level (handle assembly).

BSI PAS 23-1:1999, General Performance Requirements for Door Assemblies, tests a door for fitness of purpose to see how single leaf external door assemblies will stand up to general usage throughout its anticipated design life. This environmental standard for doorsets certifies that a particular doorset is fit for purpose with a basic security element.

BSI PAS 24-1: 1999, Doors of Enhanced Security tests for single leaf external doorsets to determine how difficult it is for a potential intruder to break in through a particular door or frame. This is an attack test standard that certifies that a particular door, framelock and hardware set has withstood a series of physical tests based on common methods of burglary using defined sets of tools and attack time.

In addition, the Warmdor was put through the new Annex D testing, an accelerated life span test involving the door being heated with halogen lamps, then cooled down, then the process being repeated continually over a certain time period. 'We are delighted that the product has met with success in the testing procedure,' comments Jimmy Wood from Hallmark. 'The Warmdor model is extremely popular, with over 500 sold in one month.'

Warmdor comprises two Hallmark skins that are bonded to Warmseal's sash and contain a solid core of envirofoam, which is HFC and CFC- free to offer a more robust, environmentally friendly product. The tough, GRP and thermoplastic skins are embossed to give the appearance of timber with a grain affect and are available in a variety of colours. A key element of Warmdor's construction is the bonding of the fully reinforced, twin-rebated 66mm PVC-u sash that is 50% thicker than normally used for a composite door. Enhanced weather performance is achieved by the use of twin seals.

As one of Hallmark's largest customers, the partnership agreement sees Warmseal fabricating the sashes, which are then transferred to Hallmark to be bonded. The doors are then returned to Warmseal for finishing, including the addition of hardware.

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ISO Award Underwrites WHS Halo’s IT Security

Systems company WHS Halo has become one of the few UK businesses to achieve accreditation under information security standard ISO 27001: Information technology - Security techniques - Information security management systems - Requirements. ISO 27001 aims to ensure that adequate controls addressing confidentiality, integrity and availability of information are in place in respect of customers, employees and trading partners.

WHS Halo customers will benefit from a more consistent approach to IT procedures and enjoy higher levels of IT efficiency, system ‘resilience’ and performance. Furthermore they will enjoy: comfort from the certainty that their management information is secure; increased credibility and trust when disclosing sensitive information; maintenance of WHS Halo’s competitiveness thanks to cost savings realised from the programme and knowledge that relevant laws and regulations are being met.

A key element of ISO 27001 is that management needs to get involved in a practical way to show that information assurance is being properly managed. This requirement is above all else, one of the biggest reasons for obtaining certification to the standard.

ISO 27001 was published in October 2005, essentially replacing the old BS 7799-2 standard; and provides a specification for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It is the first in a family of international information security standards that will underpin and protect IT world-wide over the next decade.

WHS Halo says that its IT department is already regarded as an industry leader amongst UK PVC-U systems companies – not least through its offering of a dedicated field IT systems division implementing for its customers a business management fabrication software package Panacea. Panacea is a versatile and sophisticated window and door production package exclusive to WHS Halo; and developed to cover every aspect of the fabrication process, from the initial design stages, right through to manufacture, sales, and installation. For fabricators who specialise in conservatories a conservatory design package is also available. Robotics, accounts and stock links, with custom management reporting, allows for a complete business solution.

Achieving ISO 27001 allows the IT department to run at more efficient levels and as business pressures, system requirements and user demands increase, the department can 'flex' without stress.

Achieving the standard took eight months of hard work from the company’s IT department, the team being led by IT Systems Consultant Michelle Currie, Senior Systems Analyst Mat Greenaway and Richard Pearce, IT Director for BBPL.

Tel: 0121 749 3000
Web: http://www.whs-halo.co.uk

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Norfolk Frames Certified By BM Trada

As a One Stop Shop for door and window replacement, Norfolk Frames Ltd prides itself on the quality and standards of excellence achieved by the company’s product range. The company uses BM TRADA as third party quality auditors for its City Collection of fire doors, and is a member of the prestigious Q-Mark Certification Scheme.

'The benefits of belonging to the Q-Mark scheme are many,' comments Anne Lewis of Norfolk Frames. 'It gives assurance that the product will perform to the standards demanded by the independent fire testing procedure and it gives manufacturers peace of mind knowing that they have delivered to the appropriate standards of performance. The service offered by BM TRADA is invaluable in helping us to maintain the quality and performance for which the company’s products are renowned.'

Although third party certification is not mandatory under the Building Regulations, Norfolk Frames insists that its City Collection of composite doors are certified by BM TRADA to meet the requirements of BS 476: Part 22: 1987, as well as achieving GRP 30 minute fire door test requirements. This entitles the Q-Mark identification plug to be placed on the doors, assuring end users, specifiers and building control officers that the doors correctly combine all critical components.

BM TRADA is a leading multi sector certification body accredited by UKAS and was originally established to develop quality assurance in the construction sector and now offers a portfolio of services that includes certification for quality, environmental and security, as well as health and safety management systems.

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Architectural Glass Industry Innovators Honoured With 2006 Crystal Achievement Awards

Glass Magazine has announced its first Crystal Achievement Award winners. Selected by a panel of 51 judges representing all segments of the industry, the awards recognize significant innovations and achievements in architectural glass technology, manufacturing and marketing.

'Manufacturers, fabricators, contract glaziers and glass-shop owners have so few opportunities to let their creativity shine,' says Nancy Davis, editor-in-chief, Glass Magazine. 'These awards reveal an unprecedented wealth of innovation in areas ranging from energy conservation to interior glass applications. Each of the nominations reported on a top-quality project, and many more of them will be described in future issues of Glass Magazine. We had excellent participation in this first award program for architectural glass, and we look forward to many more fenestration managers entering examples of their work in future years.'

Crystal Achievement Awards saw 114 entries; the winners are listed below:

Technology

Most innovative commercial window
Thermique Technologies, LLC, (medium and small companies)
Guardian Industries, (large companies)

Most innovative curtain-wall systems
Page Southerland Page, LLP (medium and small companies)
Guardian Industries Corp. (large companies)

Most innovative skylights, skylight systems, or overhead glazing components
Advanced Structures Inc.

Most innovative curtain-wall components
Centerbrook Architects and Planners, LLC (medium and small companies)
Vistawall Architectural Products (large companies)

Most innovative commercial doors or door components
C.R. Laurence Co. (large companies)
American Douglas Metals Inc., Savio Spa, Orlando, Fla. (medium and small companies)

Most innovative door applications
UltraGlas Inc. (medium and small companies)
ODL Inc. (large companies)

Most innovative curtain-wall applications
Goettsch Partners

Most innovative decorative glass applications
Innovative Structural Glass Inc. (medium and small companies)
Solutia Inc. (large companies)

Most innovative glass application that earns credit under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program of the U.S. Green Building Council
Northwest Glass Products Inc. (large)
Advanced Glazings Ltd. (medium and small companies)

Most innovative interior glass applications
Giroux Glass

Most innovative bath enclosures and related supplies and materials
Oben USA (medium and small companies)
Guardian Industries Corp. (large companies)

Manufacturing and fabrication

Best plants
Vistawall Architectural Products (large companies)
J.E. Berkowitz (medium and small companies)

Most innovative plant equipment
Maverick Specialized, LLC (medium and small)
Glasstech Inc. (large companies)

Marketing

Most innovative comprehensive marketing programs
Kawneer

Most innovative print media
Oben USA (medium and small companies)
Guardian Industries Corp. (large companies)

Most innovative Internet media applications or sites
Oben USA (medium and small companies)
Commercial Windows, University of Minnesota (large companies)

Most innovative technology article written for Glass Magazine during the past year
LightLouver LLC (medium and small companies)
TruSeal Technologies (large companies)

Each winner will receive a glass award at GlassBuild America: The Glass, Window & Door Expo, Sept. 19-21, in Las Vegas. A Crystal Achievement Awards Pavilion will be on the exhibition floor among booths representing all aspects of the flat glass and window and door industries.

For more information visit www.GlassBuildAmerica.com.

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Harnser Wins Accolade At Top Safety Awards Event

Just twelve months after its launch, the innovative new window lifting crane from Eazi Lift has been feted at the annual Health & Safety Awards in London.

The Harnser, available on contract hire or outright purchase allows frames or fully glazed windows to be lifted to upper floor openings safely and cost-effectively, was one of a small number of products to be short-listed in the 'best safety product' category.

The awards, in association with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), reward innovation, professionalism and excellence in all areas of construction safety. As finalists, the Harnser team was at the glittering ceremony at London's Park Lane Hotel to receive its accolade.

'For a small company in a specialist field, to be short-listed alone is a major achievement,' says Harnser inventor Jeff Crowder, 'and to take the runners-up spot against stiff competition is the icing on the cake.'

The Harnser is set to revolutionise the way frames are put into place on newbuild and refurb installation projects. Easily portable, and quick and simple to use, the low-cost crane offers not only safety benefits but also significant cost-savings as a result of the speed with which windows can be lifted, without the need for costly towers, scaffolding or cherry pickers.Commenting on Harnser's success, Stephen Williams, the HSE's chief inspector of construction, said: 'Work at Height and manual handling issues are critical to the safety of site personnel. It is good to see innovative products like the Harnser Crane being developed and brought to market to provide practical and effective improvements.'

To meet the growing demand for the revolutionary new crane, Harnser Systems Ltd, together with its distributor Eazi Lift, has recently moved to a new office and warehouse complex at Gorleston in Norfolk.

http://www.eazilift.com/

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BBA Datafile Online

Details of the new Agrément Certificates below are available at BBA's website, with many of the existing Certificates available in downloadable pdf format. Look for the symbol at the end of the Certificate summary.

New Certificates added between 13 June 2006 and 03 July 2006
06/4337 MULTIVAP 400 BREATHABLE ROOF TILE UNDERLAY - UBBINK UK LTD
06/4338 MULTIVAP 300 VAPOUR PERMEABLE ROOF TILE UNDERLAY IN ENERGY-EFFICIENT NON-VENTILATED COLD PITCHED ROOF SYSTEMS - UBBINK UK LTD

Amendments to Existing Certificates between 13 June 2006 and 03 July 2006
90/2442 ZENITH PVC-U WINDOW SYSTEM - BOWATER HOME IMPROVEMENTS LTD
90/2531 THYSSEN UPVC WINDOW SYSTEM - Alphaglaze Ltd

Certificates withdrawn between 13 June 2006 and 03 July 2006
02/3882 BRUGMANN PVC-U WINDOW SYSTEM - Jomar
04/4157 PREMIER PROFILES PVC-U WINDOW SYSTEM - CALENDAR HOME IMPROVEMENTS LTD
04/4106 PREMIER PROFILES PVC-U WINDOW SYSTEM - WELCOME WINDOWS LTD

Suspended Certificates between 13 June 2006 and 03 July 2006
99/3576 ULTRAFRAME CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM - Jackson Building Centres Ltd

Please visit the BBA homepage at http://www.bbacerts.co.uk and http://www.bbacerts.co.uk/mnthcrts.html for a full listing of new Certificates.

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GJB Developments Gains Secured by Design

Essex based GJB Developments PLC has gained Secured by Design member status for its BS7950 secure window system. Add this to the BBA accreditation already achieved and GJB Developments is set to be one of the top equipped fabricators to serve the new build market in the South.

GJB Developments believe achieving three industry-recognised accreditations is not just a bonus in today's market, it is a necessity and helps keep GJB's customers ahead of the game.

Already established as a key supplier to the new build market, the Secured by Design member status will add even more desire to GJB's secure window system, which is fabricated using Eurocell's Eurologik Ovolo sculptured window profile. The distinctive yellow and blue secured by design logo symbolises that GJB's secure window system has been approved by the Association of Chief Police Officers Crime Prevention Initiatives (ACPO CPI) and therefore meets the technical standards that are required to obtain member status.

The GJB team boasts more than 125 employees and is led my Managing Directors Gary Bristow and ken Blackman. With more than 17 years in the window manufacturing market, Gary is today as enthusiastic about the window fabrication business as he was when he started.

Commenting on gaining the Secured by Design member status Gary said: 'Looking to the future and developing products is what the GJB team do best. GJB isn't a company that wants to stand still; we make every effort to reach our goals and aren't frightened of the hard work and investment that achieving accreditations takes.

'With Secured by Design member status under our belts we are showing our customers that we want to give them the best quality products. We like to be market leaders and we've managed to raise our bid that little bit higher and are already reaping the rewards for our hard work.

'We've got a strong working relationship with our system supplier Eurocell who is keen to encourage their customers to develop their products. Eurocell achieved Secured by Design member status at the beginning of 2006 and put us in touch with ACPO.'

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Kitemark Success for Gloucestershire Company

In recognition of its long standing commitment to Service and Customer Care, High-Tech Windows Ltd has become the first Window company in Gloucestershire to be awarded the new BSI Kitemark License for Survey and Installation.

Suppliers and installers of Upvc Windows ,Doors and Conservatories to the domestic market of Gloucestershire since 1985, High-Tech Windows has always regarded the delivery of good Customer Service as the key to long term success and this philosophy over the years has seen the company grow from a small concern turning over £500,000 into the largest Window company in the County employing over 70 staff to service sales that now exceed £5m p.a.

High-Tech's Marketing Director - John Green - was extremely proud to have achieved the exacting standards the new Kitemark License demands. 'It's very rewarding for us all at High-Tech Windows,' he said. 'After years of Customer Care dedication our efforts have been recognised and the BSI Kitemark certification is a great testimony to our operation and our customers confidence in the service we provide'.

As the new Kitemark License for Survey and Installation was only recently introduced by the BSI, High-Tech Ltd have once again demonstrated their commitment to raise Window Industry standards throughout the U.K and set the best example of what Customer Care and Service is all about.

Caption Director of High-Tech Eric Cheshire, BSI Product Manager, Elaine Durno and Co Director of High-Tech, John Green.

Contact High-Tech Windows 01452 857057

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Local Factory Wins International Award

The JELD-WEN PVC-U window factory based in Darlington is celebrating its success in winning the ‘most improved factory’ award in an international competition run by its parent company.

Every year international door and window manufacturer JELD-WEN assesses its factories across nine different countries to find the one that deserves to win this prestigious accolade.  Darlington was commended for its Lean Management programme and major investment in new equipment, which has enabled the factory to upgrade its manufacturing efficiency and the quality of its end products.

Steve Williamson, General Manager for JELD-WEN Darlington said: 'We are delighted with this global recognition of our efforts and achievements.  Following the recent major investment, we are moving forward with new services and continuous improvements that have strengthened our position at the forefront of the PVC-U market.  Congratulations should go to our staff for the role they played in making this happen.'

The Darlington factory benefited from a £2.5m investment in 2005, with new equipment installed for producing windows and doorsets.  It also involved the re-organisation of production lines to maximise efficiency and provide a more consistent product quality.

Training played a big part in the factory’s success with large numbers of staff undertaking NVQ courses and following lean management programmes that have enabled the factory to remain competitive in an aggressive market.

This is an exciting time for JELD-WEN Darlington, which is currently pioneering a new supply and fit service for PVC-U windows for housebuilders.  The company has appointed two new sales specialists Rob Franklyn and Darryl Jackson, who will be responsible for increasing the number of windows and doorsets that JELD-WEN sells via builders merchants throughout the United Kingdom.

Steve Williamson explains: 'Both Darryl and Rob have extensive experience in the PVC-U industry and strong contacts with housebuilders and developers.  We are looking forward to developing this new service that should create a new market for our PVC-U products across the UK and are optimistic about the future.'

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RBD Up To Standard

RBD Glass Ltd of Great Yarmouth has recently been awarded the European Standard for sealed units - EN 1279 part 2 - which all sealed unit manufacturers must have by March 2007. Those companies without the standard in place by this date will have to stop manufacturing.

The fabricator has seen its 37th year as a prime quality timber and pvc-u frame manufacturer. The company set up its sealed unit division back in 2004 and is now well respected for the quality of its sealed units and reliable service. RBD has recently invested in a toughening plant to keep everything in house and to benefit from a greater level of control over it.

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Timely Energy Rating for Tradesmith

Tradesmith Ltd in Hailsham, East Sussex, has achieved a British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) 'C' energy rating for one of its window designs with BM TRADA Certification Ltd

The C rating for Tradesmith is timely. Government plans to introduce the controversial home sales pack may have been scrapped, but sellers will still require an energy efficiency rating. BFRC-rated windows will have an edge with homeowners looking to add value and help boost the energy rating of their homes.

Jason Smith, Managing Director, said the development was a logical step for the company, which started out 13 years ago manufacturing only 40 windows a week and is now producing around 300, along with external and patio doors, stable doors and conservatories. Growth in business is down to Tradesmith's sound reputation throughout the south-east.

The company is now promoting its rebranded 'Tradesmith Energy Efficient Window' and anticipates heavy demand. 'The energy rating has the added advantage that it will instantly mean something to the consumer. The coloured label is already familiar on white goods and other household items, so the homeowner will be able to appreciate at a glance what it means,' said Mr Smith. At the moment the window is available in white only, but other finishes will be introduced to meet demand.

The company has worked with leading window systems manufacturers WHS Halo from the beginning, drawing on the extensive technical and sales support offered by the supplier. 'We will work closely with our trade customers to put across the advantages the energy rating offers,' Mr Smith added.

For further information on
* Tradesmith telephone 01323 849123 or email jason@tradesmith.co.uk.
* BFRC Window Energy Rating Programme contact Andy Sumner of BM TRADA on 01502 679990 or email asumner@bmtrada.com. Visit also www.bmtrada.com.

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Budget Gains Quality Accreditation

Budget Windows has been awarded quality management system ISO 9001: 2000 after successful implementation to the company’s workplace.

The system ensures that Budget complies with quality standard attainment for its valued customers as well as itself. The award is further commitment to the company’s drive to ensure a complete customer focused system.

The company has introduced ISO 9001: 2000, management system model and achieved its requirements to develop its business. This quality policy forms part of a multi-tiered quality management system comprising-quality policy, quality procedures, company procedures and industry codes of practice and guidance documents.

Through achievement of this, Budget Windows is now registered within the BM TRADA Certification scheme for approved quality systems, which states that the system ISO 9001 : 2000 will help any enterprise improve efficiency and lift its performance. Ensuring that the key to a successful organisation is to focus on business and customer needs, whilst utilising practical common sense approaches.

After six months setting and establishing the procedures, Budgets investment in the quality standard is testament to the company’s belief in developing a quality and modern company, ensuring standards throughout all levels of its business, further underpinning the company’s recent growth since the management buyout on New Years day 2005.

During the buyout, Budget embraced the opportunity to switch to Synseal's SynerJy suite in order to strengthen its fabrication side to accompany the company’s already well established domestic business.

At the beginning of 2006, with help from The Consultancy, a marketing communications agency, Budgets trade fabrication department was re-branded to Eden Trade Systems which brought the company’s operation into the 21st century by offering its first online ordering system.

Budget Windows Managing Director Graham Jenny said: ‘In today's market customers are looking for quality in both product and pricing. By fully committing to IS0 9001:2000 accreditation customers get the reassurance that they are dealing with a first class operation, the benefits of which are visibly demonstrated throughout from initial enquiry to after sales service’.

Web: http://www.budgetwindows.co.uk

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GTL National Training Awards 2006

At its AGM, Glass Training Ltd made a number of award presentations to individuals and companies in the glass sector. These included ten individuals/organisations associated with the Glass Qualifications Authority (GQA).

§ A 'First Award' in Stained Glass Conservation was made to Helen Chick of Holywell Glass. Helen achieved, via the GQA Approved Centre Salisbury College, a Level 3 NVQ in Glass Processing assessed in the context of Stained Glass Conservation.

§ A 'Scottish Training Provider of the Year' award was made to R T Resources, a GQA Approved Centre based in Ayr.

§ A 'First Award' to celebrate its 1000th GQA national vocational qualification in Automotive Glazing was made to Autoglass and received by Steve Sinclair-Day (the company's GQA approved Centre Co-ordinator).

§ An 'English Training Provider of the Year' award was made to The Vocational College based in Merseyside. The award was accepted by Roy Pusey, a GQA approved Internal Verifier and Assessor. The Vocational College has recently achieved a high grade (2) in an ALI inspection.

§ Denis Goodwin, a GQA External Verifier received a 'Services to Training in the Glass Industry' award.

§ John Taylor, the Centre Co-ordinator and Head of the GQA approved International Glass Centre, received a 'Services to the Glass Industry' award. John is also a City & Guilds examiner of the ŒRaw Materials and Batch Mixing‚ certificate.

§ Peter Heyes, the Centre Co-ordinator of the GQA approved centre Blackburn College/Glass Creations received a 'Services for Education in the Glass Industry' award. Peter has an international as well as UK reputation having supported many educational provisions throughout the world.

§ Jim Kelly, a GQA Director and Company Secretary received an award for 'Services to the Glass Industry'

§ Askeri Kaplan, who achieved his GQA NVQ in Production of Glass Supporting Fabrications via The Vocational College, received an award in 'Fenestration Fabrications'. Askeri came to the UK from Turkey to continue a career in the glass sector with 1st Frame in Kendal. He was a runner-up in the Excellence in Cumbria Award (South West).

§ Birmingham City College received an award for its 'College and Employer Partnership' linked to the apprenticeship programme of Autoglass. The outcome of the partnership has lead to a successful outcome of Automotive Glazing apprenticeship completions.

Web: http://www.glassqualificationsauthority.com

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Eurocell Adds Two more BBA Accreditations to its List

Eurocell Profiles, one of the UK's largest PVC-u manufacturers, has recently achieved BBA accreditation for its Eurologik Ovolo and its Chamfered Cream Logik window systems.

Now with a total of 10 BBA accreditations, Eurocell is highlighting its determination to develop products to the highest level. Supplying a wide range of goods that have achieved industry-recognised accreditations is a fundamental part of Eurocell's customer support strategy that puts its customers in the best position to meet market and consumer demand.

BBA accreditation means that both window systems have been through rigorous testing relating to durability, endurance, wind resistance, installation and compliance with building regulations. Eurocell customers who are BBA accredited in their own right can benefit from the recent accreditations and broaden their market reach to areas such as housing association, new build and council work which often stipulate BBA accreditation in their supplier specification.

Eurologik Ovolo is a full suite of sculptured window and door profile that was launched in spring 2005 as an attractive, aesthetically pleasing alternative to regular window systems. Cream Logik has a look and finish which works well with new build and period style houses and is a way for homebuilders to differentiate their houses. Both windows systems strengthen Eurocell's customers' ability to reach a wider spectrum of the window and door market.

Window fabricators who are looking to achieve BBA certification can contact the Eurocell technical team on 01773 842165 for guidance and assistance on gaining these and other relevant accreditations.

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West Country Windows Passes EN1279 Part 3

Commercial fabricator, Rugby Windows, has achieved Kitemark accreditations BS7412 and BS7950 enhanced security standard on its casement windows manufactured from both Deceuninck 3000 and 1800 Series.

During the assessment process, Deceuninck worked closely with Rugby Windows to assist in all relevant areas. Key performance factors were determined during the initial discussions and Deceuninck was able to draw on its considerable experience to help fast track documents and give advice on sample set up during manufacture and testing at the BSI.

Director of Rugby Windows, Anthony Hopewell said: 'We are delighted to have achieved the Kitemark accreditations which are recognition of the high quality products we continually supply to the commercial arena. Deceuninck has been extremely helpful throughout the accreditation process and the company's expertise in this area has been invaluable. We are delighted to have passed.'

Leicestershire based Rugby Windows has successfully been manufacturing and installing windows within the commercial market for many years. This latest accreditation achievement will provide future success for the company in the quality driven commercial market.

Tel: 01249 816969
Email: carol.hearn@deceuninck.com

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A,B and C Energy Ratings for SWC Trade Frames

SWC Trade Frames Ltd in Scarborough has achieved a hat trick of British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) energy ratings for its PVCu window ranges, with BM TRADA Certification Ltd. The company's System 10 and Esthetique windows have achieved A, B and C ratings, enabling the company to differentiate itself still further from competitors.

According to Managing Director Paul Richings, the replacement window market 'can be too focused on price. As homeowners and specifiers become more conscious of the need to save energy, the BFRC ratings with their clear labelling system give customers different choices.' SWC intends to promote the C-rated windows as standard within the System 10 and Esthetique ranges, with A and B-rated options for those wanting an even higher specification.

Concern about the environment is probably the single most important driver for the changes taking place within Building Regulations and the BFRC scheme is not only called up in Part L1B of the Building Regulations, but is also supported by the Energy Saving Trust.

SWC - a manufacturer of doors and conservatories, too - has aimed to be at the leading edge of PVCu window manufacture for almost 17 years, producing some 1,000 frames a week. In a recent survey of installers by industry database specialists Window Base, SWC was cited as one of the top 24 fabricators in the UK - quite an achievement for a company which chooses to sell regionally rather than nationally. Its customers are predominantly in Yorkshire and the North-East.

Working within a 'strategic alliance' with extrusion supplier WHS Halo, SWC offers its installers a training and consultancy programme called 'In Business Together'. Training courses on offer include a range of industry specific disciplines such as retail selling, improving conversion rates, installation and surveying best practice.

'This has helped us to develop a close and loyal working relationship with installers. The new energy ratings will give them more options to offer to their customers and we will of course provide full sales support and training to help them promote the many benefits of the BFRC scheme,' said Mr Richings.

For further information on
* SWC Trade Frames telephone 01723 582666
Email: mark.catchpole@swctradeframes.co.uk
Web: http://www.swctradeframes.co.uk

* BFRC Energy Rating Programme contact Andy Sumner of BM TRADA on 01502 679990
Email: asumner@bmtrada.com
Web: http://www.bmtrada.com

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