News

Hart Door System’s wind-resistant, high-speed, industrial rolling door, Speedor Storm, is ready for business be it a factory, warehouse, storage facility or any kind of plant operation writes Chris Dobson.

With wind resistance available up to ‘wind class 5’, as defined by DIN EN 12424, in the closed position this high-speed door is ready for openings to a maximum 8 metres width or height subject to 48 square metres.

The ability to withstand substantial wind pressure means major entrances open/close automatically so avoiding a less than optimal working environment and the escape of heated air important with Winter on its way.

Speedor Storm helps industry specifically by;

·Aiding productivity – because entering and leaving a building can be done more rapidly.

·Helping to create a better working environment through its high-speed operation which means there are no unnecessary open periods.

· By saving on the substantial cost of heating.

· Made in the UK at Hart’s Newcastle headquarters from where its teams of engineers are available throughout the UK for installation of Speedor Storms and subsequent servicing and maintenance thereafter.

Speedor Storm’s strength and wind resistance comes from its multi-layer PVC and textile, both long-lasting and tear-resistant and its inbuilt horizontal curtain braces and no external cumbersome and noisy external wind bars.

There is a colour choice as well as ‘a with or without vision panel ’ which combine to deliver a good appearance, operational effectiveness and a performance product.

Safety features are of course paramount, and here they include a state of the art safety light curtain, anti-fall protection and sensors to activate the door. There is a range of operating methods that include hands free, floor loops, radar, photo beam, radio operation, movement sensors, handheld or vehicle-mounted radio transmitters,  or simple push button and pull cords.

The automatic operation can be set to include or exclude pedestrians as desired. If warning lights or klaxons are required, these can be incorporated in a complete door system and control panel which are designed for any conceivable need including integration into a Building Management System if necessary. This is delivered via its unique guide system in combination with other carefully designed features.

Visit Hart Doors for more information.

www.hartdoors.com

Process filter manufacturer Amazon Filters is set to feature at this year’s Oil & Gas Asia (OGA) industry conference and exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The UK firm is teaming up with regional distribution partner, a Bumiputera company and Petronas-registered vendor, Diamond Offshore SDN BHD.

Together the pair will share a stand and look to engage face to face with key decision makers in the oil, gas, energy and petrochemicals sectors.

Among the Amazon Filters exhibits on display will be a specially shipped 3D printed model of a mobile rental skid containing housing vessels and filter cartridges.

Mobile filter skids are versatile, integrated filtration units designed for rapid on-site deployment and emergency treatment across various applications.

In the oil and gas industries, skid usage includes reactor and catalyst protection, final product depollution, high-value process liquid recovery (amine), the maintenance of process water quality and proof of concept.

Specific filters under discussion on the stand will include SupaPleat, a high-flow, nylon-pleated cartridge product that supports fluid process applications at refineries including the filtration of solvents, acids, iron fines and hydrocarbons.

SupaPleat was the key product underpinning a solution implemented recently in a hydrotreating and hydrodesulphurisation process at a Malaysian petrochemical plant. Process engineers there had reported that their original filters had to be changed frequently.

Amazon Filters experts worked with them to test SupaPleat at production capacity and support their installation. Later analysis showed the solution had extended continuous onstream operational life by 600%.  

Also being highlighted is a liquid/gas coalescer, SupaSep, designed to enhance efficiency and drainage performance in high-flow filtration and separation processes. It is ideal for the removal of entrained liquid droplets such as water, condensate, oil, glycols and amines from natural gas. SupaSep is shown to be 99.99% efficient at removing aerosol particles, enabling liquid levels down to 1ppbw (parts per billion by weight).

Other products under discussion include newly launched sustainable polypropylene versions of Amazon Filters’ flagship meltblown filter ranges SupaSpun II, SupaGard, Contour and Contour Gas which are all used in critical filtration processes in oil and gas.

In harsh offshore conditions, SupaSpun II’s SRP-optimised grades provide essential pre-filtration for sulphate reduction membranes. The cartridge structure is designed for optimal seawater membrane protection through decades of development. This ensures longer operating life and higher levels of performance compared with cartridges not tailored against this specific application. 

And both SupaSpun II and the spun-bonded, nominal-rated SupaGard are supported by KilBac technology, featuring high-performance antimicrobial and antialgal additives. KilBac harnesses micron-sized particles containing active silver, zinc and copper which, combined with a base polymer, combat the growth of bacteria or algae. The resistance to biological growth extends the operational life of the filters by addressing the risk of ‘grow-through’ and subsequent downstream contamination.

Members of Amazon Filters’ Kuala Lumpur-based sales team, Mohamed Nizam Mohamed Hanifa and Muhamad Syakir Samsudin, will be at OGA along with senior representatives of Diamond Offshore.

Nizam said: “We look forward to speaking face to face with oil and gas operators, from upstream to downstream, including oilfield service companies who support FPSOs and deepwater drilling. It’s all about helping customers to maximise processing and refining performance, improve output purity and stay cost effective. By aligning with the imperatives of durability, energy savings, sustainability and local support, we aim to position Amazon Filters and Diamond Offshore as not only suppliers but long-term partners.”

Fazli Ibrahim, Diamond Offshore’s Malaysian-based Chief Executive, said: “Together we will demonstrate a suite of advanced filtration products designed to meet the demands of global oil and gas operations. We will highlight the benefits of innovative, energy-efficient filtration solutions for performance, productivity and sustainability in the most challenging operating environments and across upstream, midstream and downstream processes.”

Now in its 21^st year, OGA includes exhibitions, conferences and networking sessions with involvement from partners such as the Malaysian Petrochemicals Association and the Malaysian Oil, Gas & Energy Services Council. 

OGA takes place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia, on 2 to 4 September 2025.

For more information on how Amazon Filters benefits the oil and gas sector, visit www.amazonfilters.com/oil-and-gas-filtration.

With the arrival of new methane emissions standards and legal reporting dates, the detection and monitoring of environmentally damaging gases is the spotlight like never before. For residential, industrial and utility applications, Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) is offering vital assistance with its new MethaSense range of battery-powered methane detectors, which allows users to take advantage of cutting-edge NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensor technology. All three models in the versatile, autonomous new product family - MethaSense, MethaSense XP and MethaSense Trace - feature patented NDIR sensors for reliable and precise methane detection. To suit residential and commercial applications, MethaSense is a compact, wireless natural gas detector with a range of 0-5 % volume.

High methane selectivity and immunity to sensor poisoning ensure accurate detection without false alarms, making this state-of-the-art detector ideal for preventing gas-related incidents in homes and small businesses. Integrated audible and visual alarms provide immediate alerts to safeguard occupants and property, while its compatibility with advanced metering infrastructure supports smart home integration. Progressive signal processing algorithms ensure MethaSense detects, alarms and monitors methane at concentrations as low as 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL) for enhanced safety.

Optional wireless (LoRaWAN) connectivity enables real-time gas detection visualisation, further boosting safety and efficiency with clear, actionable insights. Offering low cost of ownership, MethaSense delivers both affordable protection and peace of mind. In addition, 10+ years of battery life means MethaSense operates independently for continuous protection, even during power outages.

Also part of the product family is MethaSense XP, which is engineered for industrial environments where robust performance and reliability are essential. MethaSense XP’s rugged design and reliable detection capabilities ensure worker safety and operational continuity, especially in areas where maintenance access is limited. It combines the same advanced NDIR sensor technology with enhanced durability and wireless communication options, including LoRaWAN, NB-IoT and Bluetooth. MethaSense XP again features audible and visual alarms, while its 10+ year battery autonomy and immunity to corrosion and saturation make the detector ideal for continuous safety monitoring in demanding conditions. With ATEX and IECEx certifications, MethaSense XP operates reliably in hazardous zones.

Completing the family is MethaSense Trace, a high-performance methane detector for LDAR (leak detection and repair) and utility applications, where accurate and autonomous methane monitoring is essential for regulatory compliance and environmental protection. A rugged build with IP67 ingress protection rating for outdoor use ensure uninterrupted performance in harsh conditions, reducing operational risks and maintenance costs. Exceptional methane sensitivity provides 10× higher methane selectivity than previous-generation sensors, 1/2 with a detection range that extends from 50 ppm to 100% volume for both low-emission environmental monitoring and high-concentration safety thresholds.

A fast and comprehensive solution, the detector delivers 24/7 methane emission monitoring, detection and quantification across large-scale industrial sites. By combining real-time sensing, cloud-based analytics and automated reporting, MethaSense Trace enables operators to detect, localise and measure methane emissions with precision.

This not only helps reduce emissions but also ensures full compliance with new methane regulations. As of 5 August 2025, operators in the EU must submit detailed reports on their annual source-level methane emissions in accordance with the EU Methane Regulation (previously Regulation 2024/1787). The reports need to include comprehensive data on methane emissions from all relevant sources within the facility. Independent verification is also necessary. “NDIR technology, as utilised by all three detectors in our new MethaSense series, offers high selectivity, fast response times and long-term reliability,” explains Régis PREVOST, Product Line Manager, Teledyne GFD. “Users benefit from natural gas detectors that provide a low-maintenance, cost-effective, versatile solution for continuous methane monitoring, supported by key features that include up to 10+ years of battery life, zero recalibration requirements, wireless connectivity options, and suitability for smart infrastructure and safety critical environments.”

www.teledynegasandflamedetection.com

FLIR Si2x-Series enables reliable detection of pressurized gas leaks, mechanical faults, and partial discharge in explosive vapor and dust environments.
 

FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, has announced an IECEx certified version of the Si2x, an advanced industrial acoustic imaging camera purpose-built for professional inspectors who need fast, accurate compressed air and gas leak detection in hazardous environments. Now certified to both ATEX and IECEx standards, the FLIR Si2x is engineered for safe operation in explosive atmospheres while delivering industry-leading performance and usability.

Compressed air and pressurized gas leaks, mechanical faults and partial discharge are all common and costly issues in industrial sectors such as chemical processing, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals, where safety and reliability are paramount. The FLIR Si2x empowers maintenance professionals to identify and quantify these issues with unmatched precision and speed, even in environments where traditional tools are not permitted.

Key features of the FLIR Si2x-Series include:
• ATEX and IECEx Certified: The Si2x is fully certified for use in hazardous locations, enabling safe and compliant inspections in explosive atmospheres.
• Best-Performing Acoustic Detection: A highly sensitive microphone array delivers pinpoint accuracy for fault detection up to 200 meters away, making it ideal for high ceilings, hard-to-reach assets, and noisy plant floors.
• On-Device Quantification: Instantly view leak size and estimated annual cost, as well as partial discharge severity, enabling prioritization of repairs and fast ROI. Data can be used to support ESG and sustainability reporting initiatives.
• Bandpass Filtering: Customizable bandpass filter allows users to target specific ultrasonic frequencies, cutting through noisy environments to detect the most subtle leaks with clarity.
• High-resolution visual documentation: Integrated 12 MP visual camera with 8× digital zoom and built-in LED lighting helps users capture detailed contextual images for reports and maintenance workflows.
• Safe and Easy to Use with Minimal Training: Built for demanding field conditions, the Si2x is lightweight, compact, and easily operated with one hand. A large touch-screen interface and intuitive UI reduce training time and increase inspection throughput.
• Seamless Data Transfer and Reporting: Use Wi-Fi, USB, or the new secure data transfer cable to move images and analytics to FLIR Thermal Studio or FLIR Acoustic Viewer. Support for Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware updates ensures continuous improvement and compatibility.

“The Si2x is a breakthrough for inspectors who need high-performance acoustic imaging in the most safety-critical environments,” said Darrell Taylor, Global Acoustic Business Development Manager at FLIR. “It empowers teams to work safely and efficiently, detect leaks faster, and reduce energy waste — all while meeting the industry’s most demanding standards. With its rugged design, precision performance, and intuitive operation, the Si2x is built to handle real-world challenges.”

Two versions of the Si2x are available: the Si2x-LD, designed for detecting pressurized gas leaks and mechanical faults, and the Si2x-Pro, which includes all the capabilities of the LD model plus the ability to identify partial discharge. All other features remain the same.

To learn more about the FLIR Si2x-Series, please visit: www.flir.com/Si2x-Pro

Counterfeit ATEX-certified equipment is flooding industrial supply chains, putting workers and businesses at serious risk of explosions, injuries — and even death.

ATEX certification is essential for explosive environments in Europe, but it is only valid if verified through official channels. Terry McDonald, Technical Sales Manager at Thorne & Derrick International says businesses should take steps to reduce the risk.

 “As businesses, it’s natural to seek the best price for a product, but this is where unscrupulous distributors and manufacturers are callously risking lives. There are a number of checks that procurement and purchasing departments can and should do to prevent purchasing a falsely ATEX certified product,” said Terry.

ATEX-certified equipment is specifically designed for use in explosive atmospheres — environments where flammable gases, vapours, mists or combustible dusts may be present. Genuine ATEX products undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure they meet stringent European safety standards. However, counterfeit versions bypass these checks entirely, often masquerading as certified and flameproof equipment.

Fake equipment lacks proper design and safety controls, increasing the risk of sparks or overheating that could trigger explosions in hazardous environments.

Beyond the immediate threat to life and limb, such incidents can cause major disruptions to operations, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. Tragically, industrial explosions contribute to over 16 incidents per day globally and resulting in approximately 380,000 fatalities annually due to industrial accidents.

There are steps businesses can take to mitigate the risk:

• Verify Certification: Always cross-check product certifications with the relevant authorising body. For ATEX equipment, this involves confirming documentation through official EU notified bodies.
• Use Official Channels: Purchase equipment exclusively through reputable suppliers who can provide full traceability and certification documentation.
• Stay Informed: The EU Safety Gate system provides a public database of recalled products. Checking this portal regularly can help identify known counterfeit or unsafe items.
• Raise Awareness: Educate procurement teams and site managers about the risks associated with non-compliant equipment and the importance of due diligence.

The rise of fake ATEX equipment is more than just a supply chain issue, with lives and livelihoods at stake, companies must prioritise safety over savings and take proactive steps to ensure every piece of equipment entering hazardous environments is fully compliant and certified.

As Thorne & Derrick mark their 40th anniversary, its team are proud to keep delivering safe, fully certified equipment worldwide, where compromising on safety is never an option.

Thorne & Derrick | UK & Exports | Electrical Process Instrumentation Eqpt.

German world market leader for intrinsically safe mobile devices expands local presence in key UK market

Lauda-Koenigshofen, 05. August 2025. i.safe MOBILE GmbH announced the successful acquisition of 100% of shares in Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, effective 1st July 2025. This strategic acquisition reinforces the company's commitment to strengthening its presence in the UK market.

The acquisition of Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, an established distributor of ATEX certified equipment and hazardous area solutions, provides i.safe MOBILE with enhanced local market access and direct customer relationships in one of Europe's most important industrial markets. For customers, nothing changes: Exloc Instruments UK Ltd will continue to operate under the same name with all current team members remaining in their positions. An important priority for i.safe MOBILE is to maintain this seamless continuity, preserving the established operational structure of Exloc Instruments UK and the valuable customer base built up over the years.

"This acquisition represents a decisive moment in our international expansion strategy," said Martin Haaf, CEO of i.safe MOBILE GmbH. "The UK market is important for our growth plans, and Exloc Instruments UK brings us established customer relationships and deep local market expertise. We see tremendous potential for further market development through this enhanced local presence."

Andrew Tither, Managing Director of Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, commented: "Joining the i.safe MOBILE family represents an exciting new chapter for Exloc Instruments UK. Our customers can expect the same dedicated support they've always received, now backed by i.safe MOBILE's innovative technology solutions and global expertise."

By combining i.safe MOBILE's innovative device technology with Exloc's established UK market presence, the partnership is positioned to capture significant growth opportunities in the expanding market for intrinsically safe and rugged mobile communication.

The integration will focus on combining the strengths of both organisations whilst maintaining the personalised service approach that has made Exloc Instruments UK successful in the market. Customers can expect enhanced product offerings, improved technical support, and continued commitment to meeting the demanding requirements of hazardous area applications.

www.isafe-mobile.com

In data centres, uptime is crucial. Uninterrupted operation is essential for all critical services. A key factor in maintaining this, often underestimated, is a standardized and reliable identification system for all infrastructure components. Discover how a leading automotive manufacturer revolutionized their operations and minimized risks by implementing a robust identification system. Learn how Brady's innovative labeling solutions delivered clearer infrastructure, fewer errors, and rock-solid reliability.

In data centres, uptime is crucial. Uninterrupted operation is essential for all critical services. A key factor in maintaining this, often underestimated, is a standardized and reliable identification system for all infrastructure components. Discover how a leading automotive manufacturer revolutionized their operations and minimized risks by implementing a robust identification system. Learn how Brady's innovative labeling solutions delivered clearer infrastructure, fewer errors, and rock-solid reliability.

 The Challenge: Reducing Downtime Risks

Datacentre professionals constantly aim for high service levels. A significant risk to continuous operation is human error, particularly disconnecting the wrong cable. The complexity of modern datacentres, with dense cabling, makes this risk higher. To minimize the risks of incorrect cable disconnection, clear, reliable, and consistently applied labels for racks, servers, and cables are vital.

The Solution: Durable Labels and Efficient Processes

One of important automotive manufacturer recently addressed this by implementing a comprehensive identification approach. They used industrial-grade labels designed for datacentre demands. These labels, like Brady's B-425, B-427, and B-461, use specially developed materials and adhesives, ensuring they stay attached even to curved surfaces like UTP cables.

Beyond the labels, the solution included advanced design and printing capabilities. Brady Workstation label design apps let technicians create and customize labels easily from various devices. For on-site printing, the handheld M610 Label Printer is practical. For larger volumes, the BradyPrinter i7100 Industrial Label Printer provides efficient batch printing.

 Crucially, the implementation included on-site consulting to help standardize labels and support the datacentre's overall identification strategy. This ensured the new labeling system integrated smoothly with existing operations.

Results: Preventing Errors and Enhancing Uptime

Brady labels and identification solutions have delivered clear benefits. By ensuring labels remain securely attached, the risk of cable patching mistakes has significantly decreased. This directly contributes to improved datacentre uptime and service levels. Additionally, the streamlined process for designing, printing, and applying labels has made standardization practical and easy to implement.

In an industry where uptime is crucial, a reliable identification system is not just good practice; it's one of the fundamental elements of operational resilience.

Discover how Brady can optimize your data centre's uptime. Find out more about dedicated identification and labelling solutions for datacenters >>

Ready to enhance your datacentre's reliability? Speak with a Brady expert to discuss your data centre's specific needs.

Brady Corporation

www.brady.co.uk

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Challenge: Reducing Downtime Risks

Datacentre professionals constantly aim for high service levels. A significant risk to continuous operation is human error, particularly disconnecting the wrong cable. The complexity of modern datacentres, with dense cabling, makes this risk higher. To minimize the risks of incorrect cable disconnection, clear, reliable, and consistently applied labels for racks, servers, and cables are vital.

The Solution: Durable Labels and Efficient Processes

One of important automotive manufacturer recently addressed this by implementing a comprehensive identification approach. They used industrial-grade labels designed for datacentre demands. These labels, like Brady's B-425, B-427, and B-461, use specially developed materials and adhesives, ensuring they stay attached even to curved surfaces like UTP cables.

Beyond the labels, the solution included advanced design and printing capabilities. Brady Workstation label design apps let technicians create and customize labels easily from various devices. For on-site printing, the handheld M610 Label Printer is practical. For larger volumes, the BradyPrinter i7100 Industrial Label Printer provides efficient batch printing.

Crucially, the implementation included on-site consulting to help standardize labels and support the datacentre's overall identification strategy. This ensured the new labeling system integrated smoothly with existing operations.

Results: Preventing Errors and Enhancing Uptime

Brady labels and identification solutions have delivered clear benefits. By ensuring labels remain securely attached, the risk of cable patching mistakes has significantly decreased. This directly contributes to improved datacentre uptime and service levels. Additionally, the streamlined process for designing, printing, and applying labels has made standardization practical and easy to implement.

In an industry where uptime is crucial, a reliable identification system is not just good practice; it's one of the fundamental elements of operational resilience.

Discover how Brady can optimize your data centre's uptime. Find out more about dedicated identification and labelling solutions for datacenters >>

Ready to enhance your datacentre's reliability? Speak with a Brady expert to discuss your data centre's specific needs.

Brady Corporation

www.brady.co.uk

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Leading PR and marketing agency, Clear B2B, has announced the appointment of Allyson Higgins as its new Managing Director, marking the start of an exciting new growth chapter for the agency.

 Established 35 years ago, Clear B2B is a specialist in business-to-business communications, delivering PR and marketing services to major UK and international brands across key target sectors – aerospace and defence, construction and built environment, and automotive.

Ally, who first joined the agency in 2010 as an Account Manager, has steadily risen through the ranks, holding a Director role for the past four years. Her appointment to Managing Director is testament to her commitment, talent, and clear-sighted leadership. In her new role, she will drive Clear B2B’s strategic vision and lead the agency into its next phase of growth and transformation.

With over two decades of industry experience, Ally is highly respected for her deep expertise in PR and media relations, as well as her ability to inspire teams and build lasting client relationships. She brings a rare combination of strategic insight and creative energy that has consistently delivered meaningful results for both clients and the business.

“I’m incredibly excited to be taking on this role,” she commented. “Clear has been an integral part of my professional journey, and I’m immensely proud of everything we’ve achieved. We have an exceptional team, a powerful track record in delivering results for global clients, and a laser focus on the B2B sectors where we excel. I’m looking forward to a really exciting future.

In addition, Director Chris Wall will take on an expanded role, leading the agency’s creative output across all client work. With over 15 years’ experience delivering standout campaigns, Chris brings a deep understanding of how to blend strategic thinking with bold, imaginative execution. His new remit will see him working closely with teams across the agency to elevate creative standards, inspire fresh thinking, and ensure Clear B2B continues to deliver distinctive, award-winning work that drives real impact for clients.

Julie Clare, Chief Executive of Clear B2B, added:

“I’m absolutely thrilled for Ally and Chris. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion have made a huge impact to Clear over the years. Ally’s promotion is so well deserved, she’s the ideal person to lead the agency into its next phase. Clear B2B has grown into something very special - with passionate people and world-class clients - and I’m excited for what lies ahead.”

www.clear2b.com

The BSIF Height Safety Special Interest Group (BSIF HSG) offers an overview of the new Personal Fall Protection Equipment Standard, BS 8681, and outlines its implications for the industry and those it impacts.

Fall protection equipment plays a crucial role in safeguarding workers from the risks associated with working at height, which remains one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and injuries in the UK. The use of proper fall protection systems, combined with rigorous training and adherence to safety standards, is essential in mitigating these dangers.

The introduction of the new British Standard, BS 8681, marks a significant step forward in this area. Officially titled "BS 8681 - Personal fall protection equipment – Anchor systems – Specification for provider competence", this Standard sets out clear guidelines for the industry, emphasising competence and safety across all aspects of fall protection systems. By focusing on the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required at every stage of fall protection—from design to installation, inspection, and training – BS 8681 aims to enhance safety and reduce the high number of accidents and fatalities associated with working at height.

A complement to BS 7883

BS 8681 has been designed to work in tandem with the existing BS 7883 standard, which focuses on the technical aspects of designing, installing, and inspecting personal fall protection anchor systems. While BS 7883 addresses the hardware and structural integrity of these systems, BS 8681 broadens the focus to include the competence of all professionals involved.

This new Standard emphasises that every person in the "safety chain"—from system designers to installers, inspectors, and trainers—must have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to ensure that fall protection systems are safe and effective.

Competence and responsibility

One of the key objectives of BS 8681 is to raise the competence levels across the industry. The Standard aims to ensure that those involved in the design, installation, and inspection of fall protection systems are thoroughly qualified. 

For instance, System Designers, whose role was first introduced in BS 7883, must ensure that the systems they design are not only compliant with safety standards but also fit for purpose throughout their operational life. This includes considering factors such as safe construction, use, rescue, and inspection.

BSIF HSG member Elizabeth Rickard of Spring Structural Ltd comments: "BS 8681 is a promising step forward in addressing industry challenges, particularly in the realm of personal fall protection systems. Generally, it takes two years to train a System Designer to simply provide the pertinent information. 

"Given my experience in training system designers over that two-year period, BS 8681 could significantly streamline onboarding by offering a clearer framework for competence. It also has the potential to improve collaboration with other stakeholders by establishing shared expectations. Furthermore, by ensuring that upstream information is more reliable and standardised, it can help reduce both rework and risk throughout the design and implementation process."

BSIF HSG member Harvey Dun of Time Consulting adds: "BS 8681 is a good start to assist in setting the benchmark of competency for people involved in the fall protection industry. 

 Dun explains: "The Standard provides the purchasers of products and services, often referred to as the duty holder, with guidance check lists to confirm the provider they engage is suitably competent. These checklists may be adopted by Safety Schemes in procurement (SSIP) when assessing those providers operating in the fall protection industry."

 Manufacturing and testing

Manufacturers also play a crucial role under BS 8681. The Standard provides clear guidelines on the necessary steps to ensure that anchor devices and other components meet stringent safety requirements. This involves rigorous testing, certification, and documentation to guarantee that these products can withstand the demands of real-world use in high-risk environments.

Training and qualifications

Training and competency are central themes in BS 8681. The Standard supports the development of qualifications, such as the Level 3 apprenticeship and NVQ Level 3 for permanent fall arrest technicians, which is part of a broader effort to professionalise the industry. This initiative, driven by BSIF HSG, aims to close the skills gap and ensure that all workers in the fall protection industry are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience to perform their roles effectively.

BSIF HSG member, John Hynes of Autumnal Services Ltd, comments: "Formal, sector-specific qualifications, such as the NVQ Level-3 for installers, should raise the quality of installers and inspectors.  And the introduction of BS8681 will make it clear to Duty Holders and others that there are minimum acceptable competency levels."

Inspection and auditing

BS 8681 emphasises the importance of thorough inspection and auditing processes to maintain the integrity of fall protection systems. Inspectors must be highly skilled and knowledgeable, capable of identifying potential hazards that could compromise safety. Regular audits, both internal and external, are recommended to ensure ongoing compliance with the Standard, thereby ensuring that systems remain safe throughout their operational life.

A positive impact on the industry

The introduction of BS 8681 is expected to have a profoundly positive impact on the fall protection industry. By setting higher standards for competence and safety, it aims to drive a cultural shift towards greater accountability and professionalism. Duty holders can now have greater confidence that they are working with competent professionals who can deliver safe, compliant, and effective fall protection systems. 

BSIF HSG member Ben Haughton of Ocean Technical Safety Services Ltd comments: "The fall protection industry is entering a new era; with the publication of BS 8681and the support of BSIF, professional competency standards within the industry are going to be raised and in turn, greatly improve worker safety."

Hynes adds: "There will be a period where these new expectations and requirements are a challenge to our sector, but in the long term, they are completely reasonable and readily achievable, and they should lead to a significant improvement in the quality of design, installation and record keeping we see for fall protection systems."

Dun concludes: "My message to the companies and people who procure installation, inspection and consultancy services is to use BS8681 as part of the tools available in their due diligence process of selecting competent contractors."

To view the BSIF's overview of BS 7883, designed to help the understanding of best practice for those designing, installing, maintaining and inspecting anchor devices and systems, visit: www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org

The BSIF (HSG) has produced a webinar that brings together industry experts to discuss the requirements of providers within the industry. The webinar is available via the following link:- BS 8681:2024 Personal fall protection equipment – BSIF HSG Webinar – BSIF Height Safety Group.

For more information: https://www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org/