http://www.buyersguide.co.uk Local authority and public sector news and press releases on Buyers Guide en-gb With the increasing pressure on land, more and more people are going below-ground to create useable living or working space. Martin Freeman, Managing Director of ProTen Services explains, There are two major issues with below-ground accommodation that must be overcome; firstly, a dry environment must be achieved and secondly, the accommodation must be protected from radon gas. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/proton136.htm The new ECO BADGE developed by Hortons Badges and Emblems of Norfolk meets all sustainability and environmental policies recently put in place by UK public sector organisations. The badges are made in the UK from 100% recyclable aluminium. They are printed in the UK at Hortons workshop and are currently delivered to over 150 public sector organisations in the UK and to the Ministry of Defence in the UK and Germany. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/hortons-badges135.htm MW Services have been aiding and protecting organisations in the public sector since 1990. MW Services specialise in Water Treatment and Commissioning of Mechanical Building Services. They have successfully completed many projects throughout the U.K, working for a large number of M and E Contractors and also carryout annual planned maintenance programmes, for a number of Local Authority’s and blue chip clients. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/water-treatment134.htm A Poole police station, a hospital in Cheltenham, a Thurrock Council youth centre and Connexions office, a Liverpool Council building and a leisure centre in Belfast have all had the deadly bacteria, Legionella, found on at their premises in the last quarter. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/legionella-bacteria133.htm Tel-Aer Services Ltd has been at the forefront of audio and video signal distribution since 1974. As a member of the Confederation of Aerial Industries and an approved Sky Homes Authorised Agent, you can be confident that the quality of our work is of the highest standard. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/audio-video131.htm Based on research published by the BBC, employees are wasting up to 2 hours per day surfing non-work related sites. For an organisation with 10 employees, on an average salary of 1000 pounds per month, this could be costing the organisation up to 32000 pounds per year. To combat this problem, managers are increasingly turning to web filtering as a means of improving employee productivity and increasing security. Web filtering technology allows managers to monitor internet activity, block access to undesirable web content and improve web security by avoiding threats such as viruses and malware. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/web-security132.htm BarriersDirect.com specialise in the supplying of quality security equipment, access control, shelters and other Street Furniture nationally, and are now fully equipped to offer local authorities 30-day accounts, live quotes and Pro Forma's with easy online access. Public Sectors benefit from Trade prices offered, bulk discounts, and free delivery with easy on line access. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/barriers-direct130.htm There are many things that can be done to prevent flooding, but once the waters enter a house there are other issues that need to be addressed as quickly as possible. First, contact your insurance company, then make sure the property is safe to enter. Once this is established, the more quick the owner takes action to prepare the property for repairs the better. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/flood-relief129.htm Award winning supplier to the education and early years sectors, The Consortium continues to enjoy considerable success supporting the development of the biggest ever school buildings investment programme. The Building Schools for the Future (BSF) initiative sees every state secondary school across England benefiting from government investment into school buildings over the next 15 years. On average £2.5 - £3 billion of capital investment is being spent on the programme each year. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/education-supplier128.htm One day events are to be held across the UK to teach public sector managers how to recover financial value from surplus asset disposals of: Computers, vehicles, electronics, machinery, medical equipment, uniforms, furniture, oils, prescription drugs, metals, unused items, clinical waste and any other disposal (except nuclear items). http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/disposal-solutions127.htm H2o4u is focused on providing state of the art mains fed hot, cold and sparkling filtered drinking water systems to London and the South East. Mains fed means no more bottle ordering, administration, delivery, storage or lifting headaches. No more cost, purity or freshness problems. Most importantly, no more worries about what impact the manufacturing, delivery and disposal of plastic water bottles has on the environment. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/cheap-water126.htm Ashby and Croft specialise in the sale or hire of relocatable accommodation space. We provide new or used modular buildings and portacabins of all sizes and specification. In addition we provide an installation or removal service throughout the UK. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/modular-buildings125.htm Horizon Aerial Systems have earned a distinguished reputation in the TV/ FM/ DAB aerial and satellite systems installation sector and digital switchover for the constant provision of high quality products and services. We are a UK based company specialising in the design, planning, implementing and installation of both commercial and residential development system arrangements throughout South East and Central England and the continent. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/digital-switch124.htm Health and Safety law requires public sector managers to consider possible risks from legionella that could affect employees or the public. Managers must demonstrate that they are taking appropriate precautions and are monitoring the effectiveness of those precautions. Failure to do so, as demonstrated by the Barrow-in-Furness outbreak which led to the deaths of seven people, can lead to prosecution. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/air-water123.htm Gymkit has 21 years experience carrying out repair and maintenance of sports, physical education and gymnasium equipment. The firm has an extensive client list within the public sector that includes local authorities, schools, government departments and sports centres. Its range of services is designed with efficiency and customer service in mind http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/leisure-facilities121.htm Drayton Tank and Accessories Ltd has been providing storage tanks to companies throughout the UK for over a decade, with an exceptional level of customer service that has helped their clients to upgrade their water systems and bring them up to the current standard of regulations and requirements. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/fresh-water120.htm Abacus Property Clearance are an established company with over 15 years experience clearing commercial and residential properties in England, Scotland and Wales and offer a low cost property clearance service covering a wide range of towns and cities in those areas. The firm has cleared hundreds of properties for private individuals, Social Services,Local Councils, Help the Aged, schools, churches, solicitors and many more. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/property-clearance119.htm One day events are to be held across the UK to teach public sector managers how to recover financial value from waste, reduce time spent on waste disposals by up to 70 man days a year, create fully audited disposal trails and reduce waste removal time to days rather than months. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/disposal-solutions118.htm Digital TV arrives as a viewing option in 2008 for many people across the UK. This has caused confusion to consumers, public sector employees, as well as building owners. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/digital-tv117.htm http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/ion-water115.htm In all premises where water is used or stored and where there is a means of creating and/or causing Legionella bacteria, Ion's experience in providing water services helps prevent the spread of Legionella throughout Scotland and the North of England. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/traffic-flow116.htm Now almost anything is possible in the making of bespoke USB memory sticks, TPG's new factory is making it easier than ever before to get USB Memory sticks made to your exact design. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/usb-products110.htm Over the past 4 years the Business Centre at 100 Longwater Avenue has become one of Reading's most prestigious conference centres. A wide range of conference suites are available at The Business Centre, from meeting rooms for two people for half a day to a 100-seat theatre for whole days. Audio conferencing is available on request and Internet access is available in every room via a laptop. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/business-centre109.htm If you own, occupy, manage or have responsibilities for non-domestic premises, then you have a legal duty to manage the risk from any materials containing asbestos. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/asbestos-risk111.htm http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/legionella-management114.htm Are you sure your water management system is effective, safe and legally compliant? Under health and safety law, you have to consider potential risks from legionella that may affect employees or members of the general public. You must take appropriate precautions, such as preparing a scheme for legionella prevention, keeping records and monitoring that work carried out has been effective. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/emart112.htm Public sector organisations of all sizes face a range of problems in communicating their message to their intended audience, perhaps due to budgetary constraints or difficulties in finding exciting and unique methods of interacting with that audience. Acstede Design is a graphic design firm with 20 years experience in creating innovative graphic design for public sector organisations throughout the UK, including the high-profile Quality in Tourism campaign. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/graphic-design108.htm Based on research published by the BBC, employees are wasting up to 2 hours per day surfing non-work related sites. For an organisation with 10 employees, on an average salary of £1,000 per month, this could be costing the organisation up to £32,000 per year. To combat this problem, managers are increasingly turning to web filtering as a means of improving employee productivity and increasing security. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/web-security107.htm Councils across the UK are getting ready to follow London's lead in initiating low-emission zones (LEZs) across their cities. LEZs help to improve the quality of air in cities by targeting the most heavily polluting vehicles such as lorries and vans and can also tackle other pollutants, including emissions from construction and plant equipment http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/air-quality106.htm AimBrand Marketing is a promotional marketing solutions provider that supplies an extensive range of Corporate/Business Gifts and Promotional Products to both the public and private sectors in the UK and Europe. Its client list has included large public sector organizations such as Local Authorities, schools and the European Commission. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/aimbrand104.htm 30% savings on presentation folders and other printing services to the public sector. Every organisation has been asked to reduce costs. Here is a great opportunity to get a standard product with great savings. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/presentation-folders103.htm Founded in 2000 and with sales approaching £15 million a year, Bluefish Office Products is one of the UK's fastest growing office products dealers. Centrally located in Northampton with over 40,000 sq ft of warehouse, and with over £3 million of stock available for next day delivery, Bluefish are leading the way in the delivery of your office requirements. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/office-products102.htm http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/packaging101.htm Established in 1828, Shand Higson is a leading distributor of industrial packaging products, adhesive tapes and fabrics to the public sector, including the Highways Agency and Manchester City Council. The firm has a wide range of products available for customisation according to the precise needs of the client. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/demolition100.htm Hudson's Office Furniture has been furnishing public sector offices for 11 years and, as a family-owned business, are proud of their focus on customer service which has helped them build a client list that includes the NHS, local councils and Sure Start. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/furnishing099.htm Index Office Supplies provide a wide range of products including office stationery, IT equipment, presentation equipment, office furniture and print cartridges, to public sector organisations across the UK. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/index-office097.htm There is an easy way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve public sector productivity using 'high-tech', cost effective window films. The latest advances maintain high levels of natural daylight, whilst delivering incredible heat rejection performance. The films are virtually undetectable and do not change the appearance of the building. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/carbon-emissions096.htm Hundreds of millions of pounds is being spent to upgrade council owned leisure facilities to compete against the draw of private gyms. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/leisure-help095.htm From 6 April 2008 energy performance certificates are required when commercial buildings are built, sold or rented. Public buildings throughout England and Wales will need to display an energy certificate from October 2008 (similar legislation will also apply to Scotland and Northern Ireland). These certificates must be produced by an accredited energy assessor. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/energy-certificates094.htm ASG Stage Products is at the forefront of the design, manufacture and installation of performance facilities. Our services are offered with meticulous attention to detail, from enquiries and surveys, right through to the design and installation of our 'Stage Products' working with our clients at each step of the process, on projects throughout the UK and Ireland. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/performance-facilities093.htm Geofire manufactures a wide range of electromagnetic door holders and other activation devices used as part of a fire, security or ventilation system. Their latest product - the 'Wire Free' SALAMANDER is a system of battery powered, magnetic fire door holders controlled by Geofire technology via radio signals to a central controller. The controller is mains powered and is linked into the building's fire control system. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/fire-protection092.htm Technology company 3M has completed the acquisition of E Wood Holdings, the Northallerton-based manufacturer of high performance protective coatings for oil, gas, water, rail and automotive industries and have retained COVAC Limited as its UK Preferred Channel Partner for the 3M Scotchkote 165PW (formerly known as COPON Hycote 165PW) range of Solvent Free Protective Coatings. This product has been specifically formulated for the internal lining of drinking and potable water retaining structures, manufactured in steel, concrete or GRP and to comply with the most stringent of water regulations. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/water-maintenance091.htm The ecobutton has been launched in the UK. A simple device that attaches to any computer through a USB port, it is so engaging that it makes saving energy fun. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/save-electricity090.htm Recent examples of breaches in data security within the public sector have thrown the spotlight on how public organisations store their data - and what precautions are taken to protect it. NGD Europe 1 is one of the newest and most advanced data centres, incorporating all the latest technologies. It is purpose built to support high level technology infrastructure, has a high capacity power supply direct from the super grid and a variety of available interconnects. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/data-security089.htm Dominion Business Supplies have over 25 years trading in the commercial stationery field. The Dominion Group have the expertise and track record to fulfil your office needs and we use our experience to ensure that you get the best possible deals delivered, next day, carriage free. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/dominion-business088.htm Administrative staff, such as medical secretaries, are vital to the smooth running of practices and hospital departments. Support staff with a solid understanding of medical terminology are both more confident and better motivated and their understanding of medical terminology and basic medical issues leads to greater efficiency and effectiveness in patient care. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/patient-care087.htm USB flash memory sticks are a great way of distributing large amounts of information to a select audience. The data could include student course work, corporate presentations or large sets of brochures or technical documentation. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/flash-memory086.htm For seven years Henry Howe, a West Country waste consultant, has been campaigning to expose the scandal of numerous local authorities ripping off schools, hospitals and other non-profit-making bodies, to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds, as reported in the Sunday Telegraph on August 12, 2007. Through his campaign, DEFRA has responded by reiterating that universities and both national and independent schools are entitled to free waste disposal for a certain portion of their waste. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/school-waste085.htm A deep infrared heat therapy treatment used by firemen to detoxify themselves of harmful chemicals in the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York is now being used in UK public sector facilities and leisure centres across the country. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/heat-therapy084.htm Legionella Control Services are a national company providing professional and comprehensive Legionella control and support combined with your associated environmental and hygiene requirements. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/legionella-control083.htm Everyone uses printers - and the consumption of ink and toner cartridges is a necessary part of this process. However, the manufacture and disposal of ink cartridges can be damaging to the environment. Tonik Greenink will help limit this impact on the environment. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/greenink-recycling081.htm For seven years Henry Howe, a West Country waste consultant, has been campaigning to expose the scandal of numerous local authorities ripping off schools, hospitals and other non-profit-making bodies, to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds, as reported in the Sunday Telegraph on August 12, 2007. Through his campaign, DEFRA has responded by reiterating that universities and both national and independent schools are entitled to free waste disposal for a certain portion of their waste. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/unclaimed_savings080.htm Research reported in the Public Sector Review has found that communications professionals considered their work in the public sector to be less effective than the private sector and that frequent changes in policy and organisational structures had an impact on their ability to engage and motivate employees. It stressed that public sector employees were better able to cope with changes when the process was communicated to them more effectively. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/communications079.htm With the introduction of sustainable procurement and the increasing focus on environmental issues, there is pressure on the public sector to lead by example. Many local authorities are now using the services of SB Source to supply RECYCLED, SUSTAINABLE and ALTERNATIVE ENERGY products. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/eco-friendly-gifts078.htm Recent advice from UK Government departments to avoid using bottled water and to start using high quality tap water instead, as well as calls from the Consumer Council for Water to provide customers with tap water if they ask for it, has highlighted the need for effective and cost efficient methods of dispensing tap water in public sector facilities. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/drinking-water077.htm Public sector organisations have long been under pressure to demonstrate leadership in sustainable procurement and development, but this has taken on greater urgency following the Government's ratification of the Sustainable Development Commission's 'Procuring the Future' guidance document, particularly in how they approach the key factors relating to sustainable procurement illustrated in the Flexible Framework, such as staff training, internal strategy and engagement with suppliers. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/sustainable-procurement076.htm Changes in legislation, new programmes and initiatives, budget constraints and the introduction of sustainable procurement can make it extremely difficult for public sector organisations to communicate their message in an innovative, eye-catching and consistent way. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/communicate-effectively075.htm For seven years Henry Howe, a West Country waste consultant, has been campaigning to expose the scandal of numerous local authorities ripping off schools, hospitals and other non-profit-making bodies, to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds, as reported in the Sunday Telegraph on August 12, 2007. Through his campaign, DEFRA has responded by reiterating that both NHS and private hospitals are entitled to free waste disposal for a certain portion of their waste. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/hospital-savings074.htm The news that UK Government departments have been advised to stop using bottled water and switch to tap water instead has been widely highlighted in the media for its environmental impact, but it also brings into sharp focus the need for clean and safe water systems in public sector buildings and facilities. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/tap-water073.htm Newell Corporate Gifts and Promotional Products, formerly Sanford, are the world's largest manufacturer and supplier of promotional pen brands for advertising, marketing, incentive campaigns, and corporate gifts. When you're looking for a pen to showcase your company, you'll want a brand that your customers know and value. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/promotional-pens072.htm A computer accessory that helps users to save electricity whenever they are away from their desk has won the 2008 Promotional Gift Award. The Eco-Button connects to a computer and when users click the button it sends the PC into an energy-saving eco-mode. The illuminated design acts as a powerful reminder for users to click the button when they step away from their desk for a coffee break or to go to a meeting http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/eco-button071.htm When organising an exhibition, a fundraising programme or a fun, social gathering, it is important to make it a memorable occasion and to use a reliable supplier. A professional supplier can develop a theme for the event and can help ensure that you make the most of your budget, whatever its size. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/events070.htm St. James Park is not only home to Premier League Football, but also one of the largest conference and banqueting facilities in the North East. With its modern, purpose-built facilities and great transport links by road, rail or air, it is perfect for public events including fashion shows, exhibitions, road shows and business events such as conferences and meetings. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/conference-venue069.htm As numerous studies have noted, an attractive neighbourhood environment resulting from the inclusion of plants and landscaping has been linked to an improvement in a number of social and economic factors, including property values, crime reduction and pollution interception, as well as more general benefits linked to business and consumer behaviour. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/village-gardens067.htm Statistics released by the Health Protection Agency reveal a surge in the number of cases of the deadly Legionnaire's disease in the past six years and bring into sharp focus the responsibilities of public sector managers in combating the disease on their premises. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/legionnaires066.htm A range of innovative technology services specifically designed for child protection in public spaces or at major events and outings has been developed by DataSMS Limited, a UK firm based in Northumberland. The Tag n Go software suite, based on the firm's own web-based software application, uses a silicone wristband which helps to locate a child if they become lost in a large crowd or an unfamiliar place. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/child-safety065.htm BQT Solutions, a company renowned for its extensive experience in providing security to some of the counties most secure government buildings, has developed a new, low cost, high performance, access control solution ideally suited to local government installations, called SmaX. (Simple Manageable AXess). http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/government-security068.htm Recent examples of successful compensation claims against employers have highlighted the risks posed by poorly designed work spaces and furniture. An employee in Wales was awarded nearly £80,000 compensation after the plastic moulded chair he was sitting on in a staff mess room collapsed. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/furniture064.htm Recent outbreaks of the potentially deadly Legionella bacteria in five North East England police stations, as well as further outbreaks in a Manchester office building and a Dorset school, have once again highlighted the health risks associated with Legionnaire's disease and the importance of precautionary measures by public sector managers http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/facilities-management063.htm With easy access by train or plane, Outdoor Discovery near Inverness is the perfect place for a unique team building experience. Situated next to a Hilton hotel for comfort, the team building can include outdoor activities like year round skiing, from dry ski slopes in the summer to the natural white topped peaks in the winter, to snowboarding, wall climbing, kayaking, canoeing, ice skating, roller-skating, superjumping or other less stressful activities. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/scotland-skiing062.htm The rising cost of postage, and the recent strikes, have put the spotlight on alternative ways to communicate with your target audiences. Currently the postage costs of a 100 gram brochure starts at 60p and that is before design, printing and envelope stuffing costs have been added. Alternatively, e-mail and SMS campaigns with similar content can cost from 4p to 9p per contact depending on volume. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/communication-costs061.htm Five FREE events are being held in the UK for public sector decision makers by the Disposal Services Authority (DSA). The DSA now offers their 15 years of experience and success in selling over £600,000,000 in surplus items to work on the behalf of other public sector bodies including; universities, hospitals, councils, fire and police services. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/mod060.htm Cut out the middlemen and get custom painted litter and recycling bins at a significant discount. One of the UK's leading bin manufacturers for street, recycling and hospital bins can now be contracted directly. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/litter-recycling059.htm The public sector purchases over 30% of the construction industry in the UK. In the past there have been disputes between private contractors and the public sector purchasing bodies. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/fair-payment058.htm Cold cathode lighting now offers a reliable, long lasting and an easily disposed of option for room and display lighting. This technology, first developed in 1945 and refined over the last decade by companies in South Korea, is now an high performing and economic alternative to traditional lighting. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/lighting-technology057.htm For seven years Henry Howe, a West Country waste consultant, has been campaigning to expose the scandal of numerous local authorities ripping off schools, hospitals and other non-profit-making bodies, to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds, as reported in the Sunday Telegraph on August 12, 2007. Through his campaign, DEFRA has responded by reiterating that both NHS and private hospitals are entitled to free waste disposal for a certain portion of their waste. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/unclaimed_savings056.htm A new system for the monitoring of Security and cleaning personnel has been developed and deployed in the UK. This unique system allows for the monitoring of sites and staff anywhere in the world. The system works with the use of a GPRS enabled RFiD reader. When an officer arrives at a designated checkpoint, they point the reader at the RFiD tag to receive its data. This checkpoint data is then routed back via GPRS through the internet to your own PC network, where the movements of staff is monitored in real-time. Often, this computer is located in the CCTV monitoring room saving manpower. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/staff-monitoring055.htm No Witness, No Justice, a joint Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and Police initiative, has overseen the creation of 165 Witness Care Units across England and Wales, providing an enhanced level of service to victims and witnesses in cases where a charge has been brought. Witness Care Units ensure that victims and witnesses have access to individually tailored support and that they are provided with accurate, timely and relevant information as cases progress through the Criminal Justice System. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/court_convictions054.htm Logo bugs, created in the 1960's, are still a hugely popular low cost promotional item for the public sector. We have all seen them at tradeshows, exhibitions, given out as rewards at schools and many other occasions. These little furry bugs with bodies that look like balls of wool with two eyes and a printed banner attached to the base with the organisations message on it, continue to be incredibly popular. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/logo_bugs053.htm Keeping the focus on an event, cause or conference after it has happened can be a challenge for even the most well known group. Therefore, organizations often turn to providing promotional items that continue to remind the attendee of the original cause. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/low_cost_pens052.htm Rhodes Packaging has not been undersold on the supplying of labels for over 2 years. They offer prices of up to 60% off stationery catalogues and 24 hour shipping and delivery to England, Wales and Scotland. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/label-supplies051.htm Health and Safety legislation continues to effect the management of vehicles by councils. The chassis of vehicles need to be washed to prepare the vehicle for regular maintenance or MOT inspection. This traditionally could be done manually with a power sprayer. Health and safety regulations continue to become more restrictive and many organizations are now installing automatic cleaning systems. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/chassis-washing050.htm The UK has 20% of all the installed CCTV cameras in the world. This is equal to 1 camera for every 14 people in the UK. However, a recent study has shown that 80% of these cameras do not produce an image of sufficient quality to be used in court. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/ip-cameras049.htm All public sector bodies continually balance the issues of social inclusion with respecting the diversity of their community. There is a need to include all ethnic and religious backgrounds without favoring one group over another, while managing overall costs. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/party-packs048.htm Leicester County Council has announced that 7,500 of their employees will be given a half day off to do Christmas shopping at taxpayers expense. The cost has been estimated from £400,000 to £800,000. It is on top of an average of 13 days off per employee a year, 100% higher than the national average. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/council-employees047.htm Ryan Dean, aged 13, fell backwards from the first floor of Walter Hurford Parade in the London Borough of Newham over a broken stairwell wall to his death. The building was owned by the Borough of Newham. They were fined £125,000 plus £6,000 in costs. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/borough-fined046.htm The Green Stationery Company has just added their 4,000th client. They have been in business for 14 years and offer over 600 recycled stationery and environmental office products, the largest range in the UK. As pioneers in green product purchasing the company is a mine of information on all aspects of environmental procurement. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/green-stationery045.htm Paper Mate offer pens with a custom 2 colour logo direct from the manufacturer. This can now be done from order to delivery in 5 days. This new service, 2INFIVE, allows 2 colour logos to be printed on a selection of quality Paper Mate pen models; Grip, Image, Rumour and Click. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/paper-mate043.htm Sevenoaks District Council has confirmed that they will be signing the Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change (NDCC) on Monday October 8, 2007. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/climate-change044.htm Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) legislation requires owners of building and employers to make 'reasonable' adjustments to their buildings and operations to accommodate individuals with disabilities. These issues affect both access and employment. After a decade of legislation and efforts by facilities managers and government employers to meet the new standards, organizations are still falling short. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/dda-legislation042.htm Colchester Council has reacted to the added cigarette related litter after the English smoking ban by purchasing £500,000 of new street sweeping machines and 40 dual purpose litter bins that can also take cigarette butts for £7,500. This is on top of the nearly £1 million spend on street cleaning each year. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/smoking-ban-colchester041.htm The ban on smoking inside of public buildings took effect over a year ago in Scotland and it has been very successful in removing cigarette smoke from public buildings. The ban has also had added health benefits. According to two recent studies, admissions to hospitals for heart attacks had been reduced by 17% in the last year and both non-smoking and smoking bar staff have reported fewer breathing problems. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/smoking-ban-scotland040.htm Mobile data services are being embraced across the public sector in the UK. They are finding both cost and service benefits. Councils that are embracing mobile technology include: Oxford County Council, Durham County Council, Cherwell District Council, North Aryshire Council in Scotland and many others. They use secure mobile data services for remotely managing tradesmen, filing social worker case notes, park and street maintenance data, connecting home workers, exchanging data with mobile libraries and many more applications. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/mobile-tech039.htm The government is proposing a second hour of physical exercise a week for students in the UK as a part of the national curriculum. Tag rugby, the same as normal rugby without the tackling, is quickly growing in popularity in primary and secondary schools across the UK. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/tag-rugby038.htm The public sector has never felt more under stress. It now has an 80% higher rate of sick days than the private sector. 70% of public sector human resource managers see stress as a major issue. It is particularly an issue in the health and social service fields where 97% of managers say stress is a problem. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/reduce-stress034.htm Blended Learning; the combination of classroom, distance and self-learning, has developed into a powerful force in management training. This combination lends itself particularly well to Return On Investment (ROI) calculations for training - measuring effectiveness from day 1, rather than relying on just qualitative evaluations at the end of the learning event. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/blended-learning037.htm A 13 year old was hit and hospitalized for a week by a falling hinged lamppost in Morecambe. These types of lampposts are hinged at the base to allow it to be lowered for maintenance. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/hinged-lampposts035.htm Public sector absenteeism is on average 80% higher than in private business. The average time off in the public sector is 9 days a year, with many offices at over 20 days. This is in comparison to the private sector where 6 days off a year is average. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/workplace-stress036.htm A FREE comprehensive step by step guide to cleaning up a flooded building has been made available on the website www.buyersguide.co.uk. This FREE 3 page 'After The Flood' checklist is written specifically for building and home owners in the UK. The checklist gives a step by step process for dealing with a flooded building after the waters have receded. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/flood-relief035.htm Public sector departments are often given conflicting challenges. Recently government offices have been targeted on reducing overall spending. Also, they have been targeted with recycling and green initiatives. Packaging and mailing services can be a hidden area that can offer major savings. First, organisations often buy standard size envelopes or boxes and then place odd size items into them. This can cause additional costs in wasted packaging, protective materials as well as mailing costs by size or weight. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/reduce-mailing-cost033.htm Summer is the perfect time to bring staff and families together for team building and annual award events. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/team-meetings032.htm Translation and interpretation is used across the UK to help immigrants understand their rights and responsibilities. This has traditionally been through the use of translators, but is increasingly done through government websites. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/apt_press_release.htm The ban on smoking inside of public buildings and vehicles took affect on July 1, 2007 in England. While this may be a positive step towards people's health, it does bring specific signage issues. Each building must have no smoking signage at all entrances. It must educate the staff on where they can smoke and, for public buildings, will need to direct smokers to outside shelters, if they do not want all smokers in the front of the building on the public sidewalk. Having smokers on the public sidewalk brings the issue of littering to the forefront. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/smoking-ban-signage.htm Government offices continue to have to keep paper records for many years after they are created. However, where to store all the documents securely has been a costly challenge. For ease of access, it has always been best to keep the documents at the original offices. This has lead to any available space being used for storage. Loft conversions can be ideal for this purpose. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/loft-conversions028.htm Members of Parliament have finally recognized the importance of the Internet as a way to communicate to their constituents. MP's have voted themselves a £10,000 internet communications budget for the development of individual websites for the 659 members of parliament. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/parliament-websites027.htm Defra, along with the devolved administrations of Great Britain (the Welsh Assembly and Scottish Executive) is today launching a consultation to help tackle invasive non-native species. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/japanese-knotweed025.htm The public sector a large amount of the estimated £1 billion incentive items each year. The public sector purchase traditional items like pens, caps, USB memory sticks, mouse pads, desk items and increasingly recycled based products. They are used to motivate staff, reward students, disseminate information, promote new local programs and as a range of branded items for public venues like museums, art galleries and universities. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/incentives-trends024.htm The Chairman of the Commission for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR) has taken to Savoy Hotel in London to task for asking for £1000 for installation of a temporary ramp to a stage so that a dignitary who is wheelchair bound could access the awards stage. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/hire-access-ramps023.htm Audio books are coming of age in the UK. Long the preserve of the blind, lent by public libraries or used by senior managers to build management skills, audio books are now easier to use, lend and manage than ever before. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/audio-books022.htm Government managers are following the lead of corporate buyers and are looking for unique venues for department, team building and special events. Telephone surveys conducted by Buyers Guide are showing an increased interest in unique venues for events from UK government buyers. These results are corroborated by research in the UK by the Meetings Industry Association and in the USA by Eventective. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/events-meeting-venues007.htm Psychometric tests have been used for decades for team building and management development in the private sector. Now, psychometric testing has entered the hiring and team building processing in the UK public sector. It has been found to help identify better candidates, reduce turnover, and reduce overall hiring costs. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/psychometric-testing017.htm The Local Government Association recently branded the UK the 'dustbin of Europe'. The UK has the unenviable record of placing the most waste in landfills in Europe, 27 million tonnes each year. In comparison, Germany only landfills 10 million tonnes each year with a population 25% larger than the UK. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/rubbish-mountains018.htm Online sales of stationery supplies and packaging materials to public sector buyers are booming, according to research by Buyers Guide. Several reasons were given for the growth of online purchases during telephone interviews. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/stationery-packaging020.htm A total of 12,000 primary and secondary schools will be built or renovated under the new Build Schools For the Future Program. It is a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create, according to Gordon Brown, the 'most educated nation in the world'. It includes the new building or renovation of 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/fire-training-need009.htm The ban on smoking inside of public buildings is to take effect on July 1, 2007 in England and Wales. While this may be a positive step towards people's health, it could be cause and increase in litter. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/smoking-ban019.htm A day off at the races has landed a Gloucestershire school in trouble with its parents. The school, Sandford Special School in Seven Springs, spent £1,600 for a 'team building' day at the horse races at a cost of £50 per person. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/inappropriate-incentives011.htm Gordon Brown has announced a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create the 'most educated nation in the world'. This investment includes the renovation or new building of 12,000 schools, including 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country over the next 4 years. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/new-kitchen-equipment016.htm Gordon Brown has announced a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create the 'most educated nation in the world'. This investment includes the renovation or new building of 12,000 schools, including 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country over the next 4 years. The removing of existing IT systems offers a new start for ICT in schools. This will allow for the use of flexible technologies like removable memory sticks. The small size, light weight, increasing memory capacity and security make removable memory a powerful solution for students. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/usb-memory-sticks021.htm Gordon Brown has announced a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create the 'most educated nation in the world'. This investment includes the renovation or new building of 12,000 schools, including 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country over the next 4 years. This means massive opportunities for fire safety product and service companies on several different levels. If the project is a renovation, then fire safety auditors will be brought in to assess the building from top to bottom. Additionally, there is increasing politic and local pressure to fit the new or renovated schools with sprinkler and alarm systems. Finally, contracts will be awarded for annual testing, maintenance, and upgrading of the installed systems. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/fire-spending-in-schools008.htm Gordon Brown has announced a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create the 'most educated nation in the world'. This investment includes the renovation or new building of 12,000 schools, including 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country over the next 4 years. This means massive opportunities for IT companies on several different levels. It starts with ICT consulting to plan the future ICT investment. Then, the existing IT systems will need to be removed, wiped clean and recycled. During the construction phase, cat5 cabling or wireless hubs will need to be installed. The volumes of computers or hand-held devices will need to be purchased along with the appropriate end user and management software. Then, ongoing service and upgrades will need to be negotiated. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/it-spending012.htm Gordon Brown has announced a massive £36 billion investment in new and renovated schools over the next 4 years to create the 'most educated nation in the world'. This investment includes the renovation or new building of 12,000 schools, including 50% of primary schools, 90% of secondary schools and 100 colleges. These developments will be done in three waves across the country over the next 4 years. This means massive opportunities for disability and access product companies on several different levels. If the project is a renovation, then access auditors will be brought in to assess the building from top to bottom. If it is a new build, disabled access consultants will work with architects. Once the existing school is demolished or closed for renovation, temporary facilities need to be made accessible. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/dda-spending004.htm According to a report in the British Asbestos Newsletter, asbestos is still common in the nations' schools. The report highlighted the risk to children and especially to the teachers. The risk to teachers was tied to reports of asbestos related cancer, mesothelioma, in teachers and other full time school staff. It states that between 1991 and 2000, 145 teachers and full time school staff died from this form of asbestos related cancer. This is likely to bring out a liability and compensation issue in the future that councils may need to address. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/asbestos-in-schools002.htm The Mental Capacity Act becomes law in April 2007 making it a criminal offence to neglect or ill-treat a person who has diminished mental faculties. The penalties will range from litigation to civil or criminal penalties. An example of those covered by the Act would be an individual that has mental health issues or has been affected by dementia, stroke, brain injuries or Alzheimer's disease. The Act intends to protect people who lose the capacity to make their own decisions. According to the Department of Constitutional Affairs, there are up to 2 million people in England and Wales that lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/mental-capacity-act015.htm The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC), set up to advise the Government and industry on the transportation issues of the disabled, has released two reports on the support of disabled peoples use of ferries, air travel and the connecting ground transportation links in the UK. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/disability-discrimination-act005.htm http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/mailroom-security014.htm Legionella, the cause of Legionnaires disease, is a naturally occurring bacteria that can be deadly to humans, especially those that are elderly or in poor health. It is usually passed to people through water vapour or spray. The most common sources of legionella bacteria are found in air conditioning cooling towers, on shower heads, and around swimming pools. Surprisingly, the number of reported cased of legionella infections in the UK actually went up by over 30% from 2005 to 2006 according to the UK Health Protection Agency. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/legionella013.htm The removal of graffiti from public buildings is estimated to cost £1 billion a year in the UK. The problem varies from council to council, but London's costs are estimated at £100 million, while Leed's are estimated at £600,000 a year. However, the bottom-line is that over 400 of local authorities have a problem with graffiti. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/graffiti-removal010.htm Buyers Guide and it's website, www.buyersguide.co.uk, have been helping UK companies find opportunities with the public sector for over 10 years. It has been especially successful in the environmental testing services area where the public sector is constantly being challenged with new regulatory standards and contamination issues. This has been combined with a more aggressive public that are willing to use the courts to force environmental change. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/environmental-testing006.htm With greater personal data now held by government bodies, the risk of misuse increases. Personal data like credit card details, medical records, bank details, addresses, driving convictions, child support settlements and other details are now held electronically by multiple government bodies. These government bodies are sharing data at an ever increasing rate. This has raises concerns from the Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer, and the Information Commissioner, Richard Thomas, that the security of personal data is maintained. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/data-protection003.htm Buyers Guide and it's website, www.buyersguide.co.uk, have been helping UK companies find opportunities with the public sector for over 10 years. It has been especially successful in the asbestos related services area where the public sector is paying hundreds of millions a year in asbestos related services. http://www.buyersguide.co.uk/press/asbestos-contracts001.htm