1st Safety News

Draeger appoints Peter Silk and further increases industry expertise

collins2 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:25:03 +0000

Peter Silk, formerly a technical advisor to Firebuy and Assistant Divisional Officer with the London Fire Brigade (LFB), has joined Draeger Safety as Manager of its new Southern Safety Centre. He joins a team of industrial experts focused on delivering high quality solutions to customer problems as a result of in-depth knowledge of different industrial applications.

He comments, “I am pleased to be given the opportunity to be part of the Draeger team and to contribute to the company’s continuing success. I see this as a fantastic opportunity for me to use the skills and knowledge that I have gained in my previous roles to develop and grow the Southern Safety Centre. By establishing this Centre, Draeger is reinforcing its commitment to its customers by offering specialist aftercare and service from experienced professionals.”

Based in Redhill, his first task is to establish the premises and services that will operate from the Centre. Aimed at all areas of industry across the South of England, these will include training, maintenance, servicing and the sale and rental of Draeger respiratory protection, personal escape and gas detection equipment. As well as managing the Centre, he will also be representing Draeger in various regulatory bodies and will be actively involved in a number of fire and rescue service organisations as well as similar customer groups throughout industry.

With 4 years experience in the specification and evaluation of firefighting equipment in line with the Firebuy framework, Silk also spent five years with HM Fire Service Inspectorate where he was involved with product development and technical issues relating to all forms of operational fire and rescue service equipment including appliances, PPE and RPE.

Previously with the London Fire Brigade where he began as a firefighter before becoming Station Commander at various stations and Assistant Divisional Officer, he has also had experience of running the BA Workshops and Service Centre as part of the LFB Protective Equipment Group.

For further information contact Customer Service, Draeger Safety UK Limited, Ullswater Close, Blyth Riverside Business Park, Blyth, Northumberland, NE24 4RG. Tel: 01670 561200, fax: 01670 356266, www.draeger.com.

Brian Hesler Joins Draeger Safety

collins2 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:21:37 +0000

Brian Hesler, former Fire Chief at Northumberland Fire and Rescue, has joined Draeger Safety as Head of Service and Training UK. Based at the company’s head office in Blyth, Brian is no stranger to customer requirements for high quality service having served 33 years in the Fire Service. He will now be heading up Draeger’s extensive training, after care and support service across the UK.

He comments, “Draeger not only manufactures a high quality range of products but it also offers excellent training, service, maintenance and support via experts from all areas of industry. I am delighted to join the company and to bring my knowledge of the emergency services as well as industrial hazards to the service and support team. I am looking forward to developing our new Safety Centres in Surrey, Aberdeen and Plymouth to maintain and improve our service, training and support across the UK. We are considering the development of further local Safety Centres across the UK in support of our expanding business. We want to be more local to our customers to help us be more responsive.”

As well as preparing for possible terrorist attacks and avian flu outbreaks, he has managed many industrial incidents involving fire, explosive gases and toxic substances. He was a national strategic adviser, working with the Government on major emergency incidents and was also the national fire and rescue adviser to the Local Government Association on resilience and emergency planning. This level of expertise will prove invaluable when understanding customer problems and recognising the need for fast, efficient turnaround of equipment.

He adds, “Whether we are training personnel, carrying out service and maintenance, or recommending equipment for sale or hire, Draeger offers a service that is not only personalised and professional but it is pertinent to the task. Our extensive knowledge of hazards and their effects, the workplace environment and its dangers and, of course, financial restraints mean that we can offer an ideal solution that is workable, cost effective and, above all, safe. My intention is to bring this level of knowledge and expertise to our customers on a local basis via our regional Safety Centres.”

Awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service and dedication to improving community safety, Brian spent 7 years at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service as Chief Fire Officer, and before that, four years as Deputy Chief. His previous experience includes a further 22 years with various Brigades including London, Oxfordshire, Cleveland, Fife and County Durham, as well as 3 years seconded to the national Fire Service College at Moreton-in-Marsh as Head of Operational Command, Offshore Firefighting and International Training.

DRAEGER SAFETY AT EMERGENCY SERVICES SHOW

collins2 — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:09:51 +0000

Stand 165, Hall 2 and Stand 426, Hall 3

Well known for compressed air breathing apparatus, Draeger will be demonstrating its Total Safety system solution which incorporates abroad portfolio of integrated products and services for use in a wide range of different applications. Of particular interest to the fire and law enforcement sectors, these include ATEX approved thermal imaging cameras and gas tight suits, new rescue helmets, ASDUs and gas detection monitors and tubes, as well as full service and maintenance, on and off-site bespoke training packages, and access to long and short term product hire.

Visitors to stand 165 in Hall 2 can see demonstrations of the latest in non-invasive saliva based drug testing alongside examples of Draeger’s extensive personal protection equipment such as facemasks and safety eyewear for use in situations such as forensic investigations. In addition, visitors to stand 426 in Hall 3 can win an iPod Touch in the interactive “Draeger Tube” and receive a demonstration of “on-site training” in Draeger’s Confined Space Entry mobile trailer.

Providing flexible and improved access to safety solutions via newly opened Safety Centres across the UK, Draeger is keen to listen to its customers, be accessible on a local basis, and support customers’ safety needs.

Dräger. Technology for Life^®

The Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. Dräger products protect, support and save lives. Founded in 1889, in 2008 Dräger generated revenues of around EUR 1.9 billion. The Dräger Group is currently present in more than 190 countries and has about 11,000 employees worldwide. Please visit www.draeger.com for more information.

WARNING – Roof Safety Systems must not be used without testing!

collins2 — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 20:09:54 +0000

Leading manufacturers of roof access and safety systems, SAFETYWORKS & Solutions are also authorised to provide inspection and maintenance of systems in accordance with the appropriate HSE legislation.

In order to ensure the continued safety of operatives and maintenance personnel who have to access roof areas, it is a legal requirement that the roof safety systems are inspected regularly and re-certified annually.

SAFETYWORKS & Solutions personnel are fully trained to undertake inspections, testing, and re-certification, and if so required, can supply and install replacement systems.

To discuss your roof safety systems annual inspection requirements, please contact SAFETYWORKS & Solutions on 01487 841400, email beth@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk or visit www.safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk

FIRST-EVER PERSONAL EMERGENCY SERVICE FOR BRITISH TRAVELLERS LAUNCHED

collins2 — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:34:29 +0000

Skyguard International creates instant back-up across 36 countries
Emergency response specialist Skyguard has today launched the first-ever personal emergency service for British travellers and lone workers abroad.

Skyguard International (www.skyguardgroup.com) gives travellers the power to summon help at the press of a button if they find themselves in trouble overseas. Initially the service is live across 34 European countries, the Russian Federation and South Africa.

The launch comes hot on the heels of the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office’s British Behaviour Abroad report, which revealed 19,228 Brits have needed assistance overseas during the past 12 months, with Spain producing the most incidents.

Travellers can activate the emergency Skyguard International service using a key-fob sized device called MySOS. The MySOS is the smallest GPS alarm of its kind in the UK, and can be discreetly attached to keys, a belt or worn on a lanyard. Skyguard’s service also runs as an app on a BlackBerry, with the handset’s convenience side key acting as the alarm button.

Alarms containing the user’s location and identity go directly to Skyguard’s Incident Management Centre in the UK, where trained controllers can listen in, talk if it’s safe to do so and co-ordinate a timely response by summoning the national emergency services of the country in question, and contacting the victim’s relatives or employers. Skyguard customers can provide detailed personal information through an online portal, such as medical conditions, medications taken and even a photo, which can be passed to the emergency services, often proving live-saving.

Skyguard, which launched in 2000, already offers a similar service nationally in the UK, used by thousands of individuals and companies, and more than half of the UK’s police forces to protect the most vulnerable in society.

Said James Murray, chief executive of Skyguard: “We believe we’ve created the ultimate peace of mind solution for travellers.

“I travel frequently, often with my family, to countries where I’m not familiar with the language or destination. I wondered what I would do if we ended up in a difficult situation that required immediate emergency assistance. That’s why we developed Skyguard International – to give travellers peace of mind, knowing their location is exactly pinpointed and they can communicate immediately in English.

“After years of successfully managing hundreds of life-threatening situations affecting individuals at risk in the UK, we’re excited to be the first company in the world to offer an overseas service with this level of coverage. Initially we’ve got nearly all of Europe covered, together with Russia and South Africa, and we look forward to adding further countries in the months ahead.

“When we receive an alarm we can immediately locate the person using advanced GPS technology and can then quickly assess their needs. Our trained staff can communicate with the individual via their device or Blackberry, or not make direct contact if the situation so dictates.

“We can alert local police, paramedics or fire units to be with our customers as soon as possible.”

Skyguard International is available to existing Skyguard customers as an additional service.

“The service also works across borders so travellers will have back-up and cover every step of their journey,” added Murray.

Skyguard International is available from £24.95 (ex.VAT) per month*. To find out more visit www.skyguardgroup.com

Easy, Convenient Viewing With Draeger Mobile Display Vehicle

collins2 — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 14:45:57 +0000

Checking out safety products has never been easier than with the new Draeger Mobile Display Vehicle. Allowing employees, safety professionals and end users alike to see, feel and try out the latest technologically advanced safety products at their convenience, the vehicle can be parked right outside the workplace to suit specific shift requirements. Once “on board”, personnel can then view a wide variety of equipment including new chemical protection suits, respiratory products, personal gas detection equipment, transportable area gas detection monitors and thermal imaging cameras. Along with educational videos of relevance to industrial environments, they can also see the Draeger Rental Robot in action and receive an all-encompassing shutdown management system demonstration.

Designed with the safety of the user in mind, this travelling exhibition also provides details on equipment hire and rental, the Draeger Training Academy and maintenance and calibration services.

Bookings can be made by calling 01670 561 200 or email marketing.uk@draeger.com

Continued growth prompts major expansion

collins2 — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 15:35:58 +0000

Hughes Safety Showers have opened an additional manufacturing unit close to the Company’s existing factory and head office in Bredbury, Stockport. This follows more than 10 years of sustained growth that has seen the Company become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Emergency Safety Showers and Eyewash Equipment.

The new unit includes 40,000 sq ft of production space, office accommodation and training facilities. Production of Tank Showers and the Company’s Premium Range of Unheated Showers is now centred on the site together with Fabrication, Stores, Dispatch and Service. Research, development and engineering service, together with the manufacture of other products including Decontamination Equipment and rapid deployment Emergency Shelters remains at the original factory.

The increase in production facilities coincides with a major re-organisation of manufacturing and assembly to improve productivity and efficiency leading to shorter lead times from receipt of order to dispatch. Tank Showers, for example, are now built on a production line and move through separate dedicated assembly zones. A Just-in-Time strategy from stores to factory floor ensures the efficient delivery of stock materials and components to the manufacturing and assembly areas. At the heart of production management is a computer system that links all aspects of the manufacturing process from receipt of raw materials to dispatch of finished products. It provides more effective control and better co-ordination of resources.

“We were bursting at the seams in the old factory.” says Managing Director Tony Hughes. “Sales have grown enormously over the years, especially exports. The extra space was essential but to sustain this growth we have to be even more competitive and that means some fundamental changes in the way we run our business. We still have a bit to do but are already seeing the benefits. At the end of the day, it is our aim to supply the safest Safety Showers in the world, both at very competitive prices and on time! “

QUALITY AND RELIABILITY ARE KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR SAFETY

collins2 — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 15:31:50 +0000

A+A 2011 Düsseldorf Germany 18 – 21st October 2011 – Hall 6 Stand D15

Hughes Safety Showers, together with its German subsidiary Hughes Notduschen, will be showing a wide range of Emergency Showers and Eyebath/facewash units at A+A 2011.

The stand will include a range of products with DVGW certification. This confirms that they fully meet the new DIN EN -15154 (part 1 and 2) Standard. Hughes has more than 25 certified showers and eyebath/facewash units and is currently one of the only suppliers offering such a wide choice of DVGW approved units.

Hughes Safety Showers is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of emergency safety showers and eyewash equipment. It offers the largest range from any supplier including models designed for indoor and outdoor use in hot and cold climates.

The company currently exports to more than 130 countries and supplies Emergency Safety Showers to global engineering contractors for use in major projects around the world.

Hughes Safety Showers is at the forefront of technical developments. The results of a recent project to develop an advanced control valve for emergency showers will also feature on the stand. Suitable for use on all makes of shower, the new valve outperformed every competitive valve in recent tests.

Uniline Queen’s Award for Enterprise

collins2 — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 15:07:05 +0000

High flying Redditch business wins Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2011

A quadrupling of export earnings over six years has led to Redditch-based Uniline Safety Systems today (21st April) being granted a Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

Uniline, which designs and manufactures fall protection and rescue equipment for people working at height, has a strong customer base in the UK but it is its extraordinary growth in its markets in North America, Europe, Australia, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and China, which caught the eye of the Queen’s Awards Office.

The young business also recently grabbed the attention of major competitor Capital Safety Group who decided at the end of last year that, if they couldn’t beat Uniline, they should acquire them to really steal a march on the global market.

Simon Luke Managing Director, who founded Uniline Safety Systems in 2000, praised his team, “The global and domestic markets have been very tough and, you could argue, we have achieved our growth against the odds. But our secret weapon is our workforce.

“We have brilliant people working here in Redditch with some really inspirational designers and a business development team who have given their all to help build the business. I’d like to congratulate all of the Uniline staff on everything they’ve achieved”

Uniline have utilised their considerable experience in engineered fall protection risk control to win favour and project installation contracts with international architects, building custodians, risk managers and constructors on recent prestigious projects such as the Zayed University (Abu Dhabi), Gamesa Wind Turbines (Worldwide) Dubai Business Village, Alliander, Dutch Airforce (Netherlands), Sacramento Airport, (USA), Durban World Cup Stadium, and others across Europe, Asia, America, Africa and Australia.

New Draeger Webshop Makes Safety Easier

collins2 — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 14:38:49 +0000

Designed to make safety easier, the new Draeger Webshop provides easy access to a wide range of industrial safety solutions. Found at www.draegershop.co.uk this interactive, secure on-line web facility forms part of Draeger’s ongoing commitment to understanding and working alongside its customers. Enabling UK customers to source Draeger products 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, the site offers fast delivery on thousands of personal protective equipment, occupational safety products, portable and fixed gas detection equipment as well as spares and accessories.

Serving general industry, oil and gas (upstream and downstream), fire and rescue and the water industry, this convenient website has both quick and extended search facilities and also allows visitors to browse via extensive industrial application and product catalogues. By using Draeger’s deep knowledge and understanding of the safety issues and risks that are faced every day, the site can also assist with product selection for those industries. When searching via industry sector, for instance, visitors are automatically directed to the most appropriate products for their working environment. Product catalogues are quick and easy to access and, for those who require further assistance or information, the site contains convenient product-specific enquiry forms and direct email links as well as telephone, fax and instant message “chat” facilities.

Fully committed to customer care and support, Draeger’s move into eCommerce means that customers can now source Draeger products, services and “know-how” at a time convenient to themselves. Quick and reliable, the new Webshop complements Draeger’s extensive team of UK sales and technical support personnel.

Existing Draeger account customers can access the site straight away and registration for new customers is quick and straightforward. For more information visit www.draegershop.co.uk or email enquiries.shop.st.uk@draeger.com