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NI Chamber is inviting member companies to a Successful Sustainability event which will focus on the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping sustainability strategies. Delivered in partnership with AIB, it will take place in Mossley Mill, Newtownabbey on Thursday 13 October at 9.00am.

Michael Heron, Sustainability Lead at Gilbert-Ash will share how the company has built successful relationships with key stakeholders by understanding their expectations, outlining the positive impact these interactions have had on the business strategy.

Susannah Cooke, Senior Consultant within KPMG Sustainable Futures will outline what steps businesses can take to engage with internal and external stakeholders, as well as how to work with suppliers on tracking emissions.

Attendees will come away with a better understanding of how to integrate differing stakeholder perspectives into sustainability planning and the importance of engaging local communities when developing sustainability practices.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from speakers, as well as network with other business owners, sustainability managers, finance directors and managers in attendance.

This event is exclusively for NI Chamber members and is free for them to attend. To register visit the NI Chamber website.

Caption: Pictured: Phil Murray (NI Chamber); Seamus McGuckin (AIB) and Michael Herron (Gilbert Ash).

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Fontaine Fifth Wheel are presenting their latest range of fifth wheel couplings at this year’s IAA show.

The company works at the forefront of haulage technology and their specialist experience, knowledge and expertise enables Fontaine Fifth Wheel to offer a broad range of technically tailored options, to meet exacting operator needs.

Fontaine says that on top of their world-class products, the company support customers just as well as they service their fleets, doing the right thing, in the right way, at the right time to build valued long-term partnerships that go the distance. Fontaine combine their fifth wheel expertise and service ethos to ensure that operator fleets will always be fit for the long haul, which, say the company, breaks new ground in safety, reliability and efficiency.

TechLock:  No contact – No couple

As the inventors of the world-renowned TechLock® system, Fontaine Fifth Wheel work at the forefront of automotive safety technology.

Specifically designed to reduce mis coupling, their patented TechLock® system’s jaw height sensor will not allow the fifth wheel to close if the kingpin enters at the incorrect height or position.

The fifth wheels profiled protective forging safeguards the TechLock® mechanism from damage due to high-coupling errors. 360° kingpin surface contact extends the life of the kingpin and fifth wheel mechanism. A TechLock demonstration video is available to view at the Fontaine stand.

Also, on the Fontaine Fifth Wheel IAA stand:

The new, dual height 3000FFH Fifth Wheel

Fontaine’s new Dual Height Fifth Wheel allows both mega-trailers and conventional trailers to be towed using just one truck with a fast and simple height adjustment. Simple to install on most truck types (except construction), our Dual Height mounting option utilises the 3000 cast fifth wheel – imposed load (t) 18 tons and D-value (kN) 130kN

Key facts:

·        Height Adjustable Fifth Wheel —

·        Available in 3 models from 167mm up to 367mm —

·        2 height options with easy fast change —

·        Tested to 18T imposed load (U) and 130kN D-value —

·        Utilizes Fontaine 3000 cast fifth wheel —

·        Mechanism release available in manual or air operated —

·        Certified to ECE R 55-01

3000 cast fifth wheel with single green LED, exhibited on lightweight direct mount chassis brackets

Another safety-first innovation from Fontaine is the 3000 cast fifth wheel with extended handle and single safety clip sensor. The safety clip sensor ensures that the safety clip has been attached – a critical check for any driver. Only when the safety clip is attached, the safety clip sensor shows a green LED light which is clearly visible from beside the trailer.

If the green LED light is NOT on, then the driver has not done his check and the safety clip has not been attached. The LED light is a second fail-safe and can be routinely checked by security before the vehicle departs.

Additionally, the extended handle, which houses the sensor and LED makes it easier for the driver to reach and operate the fifth wheel.

Key facts:

·        Fit for… Long-distance haulage with silo, tank and volume carriers using both two and three-axle tractors.

·        Medium Duty, 2″ on-road & limited off-road.

·        Features patented TechLock® system with integral kingpin height sensor which prevents false coupling.

·        Rated at 150kN D-Value and 20T imposed load (U).

·        Designed with Finite Element Analysis for low weight and high strength (weight from 120Kg with DIN feet). 

·        Available with a wide range of handle and mounting options to suit any application.

·        Comprehensive 3-year warranty (subject to terms and conditions).

·        Our lightweight fixed direct mount removes the need for OEM chassis angles and is suitable for use with standard and medium duty Fontaine 2″ fifth wheels.

3000LM (Low maintenance fifth wheel), exhibited on a 150SF air operated slider base.

Fontaine’s 3000 LM coupler combines safety with low maintenance for hauliers throughout Europe and beyond. Featuring an interlock handle, which is an alternative to Fontaine’s safety clip system, which removes the need for a clip by integrating the safety mechanism into the handle.

The 150SF slider has an optional air operated mechanism which removes the need to manually operate the release handle, reducing the physical demand on the driver. For use with Fontaine 2″ fifth wheels, the standard and medium duty slider is designed for easy positional adjustment, enabling permissible axle loads and vehicle lengths to be achieved. It is also available in two positions for increased driver safety.

Key facts:

·        Fit for… Long-distance haulage with silo, tank and volume carriers using both two and three-axle tractors.

·        Medium Duty, 2″ on-road & limited off-road.

·        Features patented TechLock® system with integral kingpin height sensor which prevents false coupling.

·        Rated at 152kN D-Value and 20T imposed load (U).

·        Low maintenance replaceable grease free top plate bearing liners.

·        Designed with Finite Element Analysis for low weight and high strength (combined weight of fifth wheel and slider, from 241Kg).

·        Available with a wide range of handle and mounting options to suit any application.

·        Comprehensive 3-year warranty (subject to terms and conditions).

150SP2 fifth wheel with 3 sensor green LED, exhibited on a 40mm mounting plate.

The pressed steel 150SP2 3 sensor uses a three-sensor safety system both to assist the driver during the coupling procedure and to alert the driver of mis-coupling or tampering: The fail-safe system continuously monitors the connection and alerts the driver from inside the cab, using warning lights and a buzzer if the coupling is incorrect.

As with the 3000, the 150SP2 3 sensor uses an extended handle to make driver access and fifth wheel operation easier. Plus, the 150SP2 does not require a wear-ring and thus reduces king pin wear.

Key facts:

·        Fit for… Flexible haulage volume carriers using two and three-axle tractors.

·        Standard Duty, 2″ on-road fifth wheel.

·        Features patented TechLock® system with integral kingpin height sensor which prevents false coupling.

·        Rated at 152kN D-Value and 20T imposed load (U).

·        Supplied pre-drilled to fit all OEM chassis – the standard and medium duty fixed mounting plate is suitable for use with all Fontaine 2″ fifth wheels with DIN6 feet.

·        Designed with Finite Element Analysis for low weight and high strength (combined weight of fifth wheel and mounting plate, from 160Kg).

·        Available with a wide range of handle and mounting options to suit any application.

·        Comprehensive 3-year warranty (subject to terms and conditions).

3-Sensor safety coupling system – Key Facts:

·        Suitable for all current 2” fifth wheels.

·        When the trailer is coupled an amber LED on the fifth wheel will flash until the safety clip is in place.

·        When the safety clip is in place the amber LED is replaced by a continuous green LED.

·        The green LED indicates that the fifth wheel is correctly coupled with the king pin in place.

For further information on the Fontaine fifth wheel product range, including mounting options, lubrication, air-operated and sensor systems, please visit Fontaine Fifth Wheel on stand C09, Hall 26 from 20^th – 25^th September.

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Belfast Harbour has welcomed Belfast City Council’s decision to grant planning permission for a new high quality logistics warehouse facility located at Westbank Road on the Harbour Estate.

With sustainability at its core, the development of the new 50,000 sq ft warehouse represents an investment of £9m and will include provision of high efficiency chilled and ambient warehouse space with 17 loading docks, over 40 HGV parking spaces, and parking provision for both cars and bicycles.

The site on Westbank Road is in close proximity to the Port’s RoRo ferry terminals, providing unrivalled operational efficiencies for the occupier for freight travelling to and from GB and further afield.

The high-quality specification and occupier-led design of this new facility will allow for flexible use of the space, as well as energy and cost-efficient operations for users with the development being constructed to a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. 

With the volume of RoRo traffic moving through Belfast at an all-time high, the recent investments made by the Port in terminal infrastructure and StenaLine’s addition of new ships serving NI to GB routes, makes Belfast Harbour a compelling location for logistics operators. Opportunities exist for the development of further warehousing capacity in this location for operators seeking to leverage the competitive advantage of the location.

Michael Robinson, Port Director at Belfast Harbour said: “We are really pleased to see the new logistics warehouse receive planning permission as we believe the development will further cement Belfast Harbour’s place as NI’s key shipping and logistics hub.

“The decision to proceed with this project at the heart of the Port was driven by both an increase in customer demand, and the desire from logistics and supply chain businesses to improve connectivity and increase sustainability through reduced mileage. The warehouse will not only provide much needed new capacity in the sector but will also create jobs locally and support Belfast Harbour’s position as a world leading regional port and key economic hub for the region.”

The central location within Belfast Harbour, flexible leases and the connectivity of the location are key attractions and by putting sustainability to the fore of the development offers occupiers warehousing solutions that are net zero carbon ready.

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September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) 2022, an annual awareness day created to establish worldwide commitment and action on suicide prevention. With over 6,221 suicides registered in the UK in 2020 alone and on average two construction workers taking their own lives every working day, it is vital we open up this conversation.

We believe breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental ill-health is a crucial step towards providing a safe and healthy workplace environment, which can play a vital role in suicide prevention.

Michelle Wiles, Patron of Mates in Mind says: “This Suicide Prevention Day, it’s important to reiterate that early intervention is key regarding reducing the suicide rate within construction. It’s vital that individuals who are struggling with their mental health feel they are able to talk about how they are feeling and seek support before reaching that crisis point.

In 2019, my husband Chris suffered a mental health crisis brought on by severe stress, which developed at rapid speed and led to him taking his own life. No one should go through what Chris went through, and no family should go through what we have. Chris never experienced any mental health illness previously so I can’t emphasise enough that if it can happen to him it can happen to anyone.

Education on how to spot the signs that someone could be suffering from poor mental health and having the confidence to “start the conversation” is vital to breaking down the barriers that prevent individuals from reaching out to the available support. Mates in Mind helps everyone to understand their roles and responsibilities when it comes to mental wellbeing and importantly, their approach enables individuals to understand how, when and where they can get support.

No one should be afraid to ask or tell someone that they are struggling. Please do know that you can talk and there is someone there that understands your struggles, reach out to a manager or someone you trust if you are struggling, you are not a failure, there is always a solution”.

Research suggests that open and honest communication about mental ill-health supports steps towards suicide prevention, because these important conversations have the power to increase awareness and understanding, remind people they are not alone and help break the stigma which can be a barrier for those seeking help. In light of this, we are encouraging workplaces across the UK to use this opportunity to begin those vital discussions around mental health in an industry that is in need of change.

Sarah Meek, Managing Director of Mates in Mind says: “Opening up an honest conversation about mental health in the workplace continues to be the most immediate and effective starting point. We cannot underestimate this important first step – helping to provide clear language, create general awareness and supporting people to recognise that everyone has mental health which can vary depending on circumstances and life stresses. We cannot underestimate the impact that work related stress can have too and how a discussion with the line manager can often help and is not to be seen as a weakness or failure to cope.

Our experience in supporting over 650 organisations has shown us that the work we do at Mates in Mind can make a meaningful difference to the wellbeing of an organisation and its people. This awareness day provides an opportunity for workplaces and sites across the country to get involved, look out for your mates, and start a conversation which could in turn save a life”.

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Toomebridge based glazing and façade specialist, Topglass, who marked its 30^th anniversary this year, has further reason to celebrate as it is awarded the coveted Gold Status by Constructionline. Gold membership is awarded following stringent examination of a company’s health and safety standards, risk management strategy, policies and procedures and is recognised on a national scale.

To achieve the accreditation Topglass was required to demonstrate its adherence to and promotion of the highest industry standards.

Topglass Managing Director, Mark Mitchell said, “We are delighted to have achieved Constructionline’s Gold Status. It really is a testament to the high standards we set as a company and to the dedication of our staff to continually be the best we can be. As a family orientated group of companies the safety and welfare of our people, clients and end users is paramount and is why we uphold the strictest standards wherever we engage. Being independently assessed, audited and duly accredited by a third party industry body assures our clients that we operate on a level of excellence and are fully compliant. Achieving this recognition was important to us not only for the peace of mind it offers our customers, but also so we can be confident within ourselves that we are upholding these exacting standards across the board.”

Topglass is part of the MJM Group of companies and a sister company of MJM Marine, a leading international specialist in cruise ship refurbishment and Mivan, one of Northern Ireland’s best-known fit-out businesses working in the luxury land and marine sectors across the world.

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International Timber, a leading importer and distributor of bespoke, sustainable timber and panel products, has announced stocks of a new FSC^Ⓡ certified range of modified timber.

Rhino Wood, of which International Timber is the sole UK distributor, is manufactured from sustainable, plantation-grown pine. It undergoes a process of thermal modification which brings the moisture content down to below 5% and turns the pine from a yellow colour to a more aesthetically appealing walnut brown which will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-grey.

It is then pressure impregnated with a non-toxic compound which solidifies within the cells of the timber, creating a long-lasting low-maintenance timber which can rival the durability of traditional hardwood.

Their manufacturing process uses waste products as an energy source – using clean energy over fossil fuels. In recognition of their contribution to curbing deforestation, they received the WWF Climate Solver Award in 2014.

Kerry Wardle, Marketing Manager at International Timber, said: “We are delighted to be stocking Rhino Wood, with stocks due to arrive early in September. This timber is a game changer for the UK market which is struggling with global supply chain issues.

“Not only is Rhino Wood an environmentally responsible choice thanks to its sustainable sourcing, but it delivers when it comes to performance too. The impregnation treatment increases the strength of the pine timber by up to 60% without decreasing its bending ability or elasticity, resulting in a class 1 durability rating – making it ideal for endless applications such as cladding, decking, pergolas, gates and laminated beams.”

To place an order for Rhino Wood, contact https://internationaltimber.com/contact/

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NI Water is celebrating having been awarded the Silver Diversity Charter Mark by Diversity Mark. The prestigious award recognises the organisation’s ongoing commitment and continuous progress to advancing Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace.  The award recognised NI Water for expanding its Diversity and Inclusion focus into the communities it serves, becoming the first company in Northern Ireland to sign up to the UK governments Levelling Up goals to help drive social mobility and equality of opportunity across NI. NI Water are one of only two public sector organisations to achieve the Silver Diversity Mark.  They now join 12 other leading NI employers who have also achieved this important standard.

Sara Venning, CEO at NI Water, commented:

“Being awarded the Silver Diversity Charter Mark is a proud moment for NI Water, particularly being one of only two public sector organisations to have achieved this standard to date.  The Charter is recognition of how far we have come on our journey to create a culture where everyone is welcome and included, people are valued and respected for who they are and for the contributions they make in delivering what matters to Northern Ireland.

“NI Water is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and playing our part as a large public sector organisation to support social equality within the communities we serve.

“I would like to dedicate this achievement to the many people across NI Water who play their part each and every day in making NI Water a great place to work.”

Nuala Murphy, Director of Diversity Mark, added:

“Congratulations to Northern Ireland Water on achieving the Silver Diversity Mark Accreditation in recognition for their progress and ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

“The independent assessment panel noted a very high level of dedication, commitment and ownership to the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda across the organisation, championed by real leadership from the top. This has been critical to the level of success and achievements to date.

“We look forward to continuing to support them as they embed their plans in the future.”

Ms Venning concluded:

“We are very proud of all the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving this challenging standard of best practice. We have come a long way but we have more to do and exciting times ahead to get us to gold!”

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