27.08.10
BELFOR Commercial News
BELFOR have seen strong growth in their commercial and industrial restoration business in the last year, especially in the more technical restoration projects where depth of expertise is of particular importance. The recently completed restructure of all the field operations has resulted in a dedicated national resource of specialist and technical restoration expertise for commercial and industrial.
In addition to our core restoration capabilities BELFOR can also carry out contamination profiling of a property as part of the initial inspection and also full technical inspections as part of a claim investigation. Furthermore, through the integration afforded by our European training and R&D facilities our project managers are able to assemble multi-discipline teams of specialists familiar with similar restoration techniques.
This new force is aligned with the BELFOR teams in all the other countries across Europe therefore providing a formidable force of recovery expertise capable of dealing with events of any scale or complexity. Head of Operations Neil McNaughton comments “BELFOR is a truly global force in commercial and industrial restoration and this new approach harnesses the expertise and resources for clients in the UK with more focus and consistency of service delivery.”
28.07.10
BELFOR Event for Claims Managers and Loss Adjusters
"Knowing how to respond: loss mitigation with modern restoration procedures" is the subject of a programme of training events for Claims Managers and Loss Adjusters. It is a regular programme offered by BELFOR’s Technical Support Department in Ismaning, Germany. The seminars investigate the theory and fundamental principles of restoration work.
If you are interested in registering to attend, the next available seminar will be held in Germany on 20th & 21st of January 2011. For further information please contact daniela.hoermann(at)belfor.com.
22.06.10
Horsing around for charity
On Thursday 24th June, BELFOR will be taking part in RSA’s annual Pantomime Horse Derby at Goodwood race course. The event is held to raise money for charity and hopes to raise over £35,000 to help this year’s nominated charities which are ‘Action on Addition’ and Heart FM’s ‘Have a Heart Appeal’. BELFOR’s team has been limbering up and their 2 person pantomime horse is raring to go!
07.06.10
IIP Accreditation Renewal
BELFOR UK are pleased to announce that following a recent re-assessment BELFOR qualified for the renewal of its Investors In People accreditation. Over a period of 2 days, an independent assessor spent time talking to individuals from different areas of the business. The assessor gave positive feedback and was enthusiastic about the initiatives and policies in place, allowing the entire BELFOR UK operation to retain the IIP accreditation.
24.05.10
BELFOR Uses High Tech Solution
BELFOR UK has recently completed restoration works, following a factory fire, using BELFOR’s specialist technique, ultrasonic cleaning lines, this high tech method provided the perfect solution. BELFOR’s Ultrasonic Cleaning Line is the fastest and most effective method of cleaning and completely de-rusting machine parts.
Due to the scale of the work involved additional support was called upon from a team of DeHaDe specialists (BELFOR’s sister company based in Hamm.) DeHaDe specialise in large scale machinery recovery and refurbishment, and the boost in technical know-how on site for this complex restoration proved invaluable.
This method of restoration helped facilitate a more time and cost-effective restoration process. This was one of the very first jobs in the UK where this type and scale of technique has been successfully utilized and is a further demonstration of BELFOR’s cutting-edge processes and problem solving skills.
10.05.10
BELFOR USA Response in Chile
A team of BELFOR responders, many multi-lingual, were dispatched to Chile in mid-March to help Red Alert clients in the area with property damage mitigation efforts. Several retail and other commercial projects are under way, as well as a large volume of document recovery work – over a million cubic foot at the time of this writing. So far, seven commercial buildings have been shrink-wrapped to provide temporary roofing. Due to the volume of work, a permanent BELFOR Chile office is being established.
26.04.10
BELFOR fully accredited - ISO 9001
On March 19th 2010 BELFOR UK received accreditation of the ISO9001..2008 standard. The accreditation follows 18 months of preparation and the development of our quality management systems. The system has defined ‘best practice’ for the business, and sets out targets for continual improvement by measurement and performance.
12.04.10
BELFOR Shortlisted for Business Continuity Award
BELFOR UK have been shortlisted to win a ‘Business Continuity Award’ in the category of ‘Most effective recovery of the year’. The 3 finalists of this category will be judged and the winner announced at the CIR - Business Continuity Awards 2010. The award ceremony and gala dinner will be held in London on May 12th 2010 and hosted by comedian Ruby Wax.
Now in its twelfth year, the Business Continuity Awards recognise excellence within the field of business continuity and operational risk management. The awards present an excellent opportunity for organisations to gain the prestige and acknowledgement as being the leader in their field.
BELFOR’s award entry demonstrated an effective Document restoration following a substantial flooding.
To view full details of the event ‘click here’ and to view the full finalists and categories ‘click here’
29.03.10
Edition 7 of BELFOR’s solutions magazine.
BELFOR’s newest issue of the Solutions magazine is now available in electronic format but also as a glossy publication. This edition’s focus topic discussed ‘reducing the impact of a crisis’.
There are many case studies along with interviews and articles from Cunningham Lindsey and Zurich. If you would like to receive a hard copy of edition 7 of the Solutions Magazine then please click the e-mail link info(at)uk.belfor.com or alternatively click here to download the .pdf version (please allow a few minutes for download time)
15.03.10
RKH Response
BELFOR UK have recently finalised an agreement with R K Harrison Insurance Services Ltd, to provide a new response service called ‘RKH Response’. R K Harrison is one of UK’s leading insurance brokers and RKH Response is a new service providing R K Harrison clients with a comprehensive response service from BELFOR as part of their Insurance cover.
The service provides pre agreed response times following a physical disaster, the BELFOR personnel on site will complete an inspection and assessment of the damage and start any required mitigation works to lower the overall cost of the claim.
RKH Response is intended to be integrated into client’s business continuity planning arrangements in order to ensure the company’s recovery from any incident is as fast and effective as possible by providing an effective response team following a physically disruptive event.
01.03.10
BELFOR called to hospital building site
BELFOR were recently called to the building site of a hospital after a faulty heater caused extensive smoke damage to the new building during its final fit out. It was important that the building be returned to a pre-incident state as quickly as possible in order for the contractors to complete the work. The damage spread over 2 floors contaminating over 100 rooms, affecting the services, ducting, lights, cabling above ceiling level and also a 4 storey atrium. A Team of 22 technicians worked on the project which took just over a week to decontaminate, leaving the customer and insurer delighted with minimal disruption to the completion of the build.
15.02.10
BELFOR working alongside Darlington & Durham Fire Service
BELFOR know that it can be difficult for small businesses to recover following an incident if they do not receive the correct advice quickly and some don’t recover at all. That’s why BELFOR have recently agreed a referral arrangement with Darlington & Durham Fire Service whereby BELFOR will be on hand to provide Disaster Restoration Services and advice following any commercial fire or flooding incident attended by Darlington & Durham Fire & Rescue Service.
BELFOR will be providing an invaluable, no obligation ‘loss and mitigation service’ to SME’s following an incident, and fire crews are able to hand over the scene, knowing that there is a next stage happening for the business owner to help them on the road to recovery.
If you are interested in learning more about this service please contact us – click here
01.02.10
BELFOR’s 12 days of Christmas Charity Donation
Following BELFOR’s Christmas e-shot campaign – ‘BELFOR’s 12 days of Christmas’ – readers we given the opportunity to nominate a charity of their choice. One was selected at random to receive a charity donation from BELFOR and we are pleased to announce the winning charity is www.fivetalents.org.uk nominated by David Silcock of Groupama.
Five Talents is a charity fighting poverty, creating jobs and transforming lives in developing countries by supporting micro-finance - providing loan capital and training. If you’d lke to learn more about this charity – click here
18.01.10
The Cold Snap!
Much like last year the bitterly cold January weather has again caused an exceptional increase in instructions for BELFOR. In the first two weeks of 2010 BELFOR received 659 residential claims and 123 commercial enquiries! The distribution of work shows that the worst affected areas were Scotland, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, and London.
BELFOR committed extra resources to dealing with the influx of claims and the increase in telephone calls being received at the call centre. Operationally BELFOR committed to working seven day weeks to accelerate our response to claims.
04.01.10
BELFOR’s New Document Specialist
David Needham joined BELFOR at the end of 2009 as 'Document Manager' and is responsible for the project management of all domestic and commercial document restoration work carried out by BELFOR. This includes inspections, restoration proposals, management of onsite works and verification reporting.
David will be based at our specifically designed document recovery centre in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. If you would like more information about our document restoration services please contact us. Click Here.
14.12.09
BELFOR responds to flooding in Cumbria
Following the recent intense rainfall and consequential severe flooding in the Cumbrian town of Cockermouth BELFOR have been working hard with many homes and businesses affected by the flood waters.
Working closely with our partners in the residential arena BELFOR UK was able to ensure that the 61 instructed claims affected by the flooding were attended to ensuring that beyond economic repair contents, were removed from premises and that, where required, other emergency mitigation measures were taken to reduce secondary damage. BELFOR’s commercial managers were in contact with several adjusting firms resulting in the award of 44 commercial jobs.
In order to facilitate the effective administration of the claims BELFOR deployed a central ‘Event Coordination Centre’ on the car park of the Wilkinsons Stores in the town centre of Cockermouth. From this facility BELFOR was able to provide local administration for the Call Centre, policy holders, and even client representatives.
30.11.09
BELFOR Exhibiting at BDMA Convention
On the 2nd and 3rd of December, BELFOR will be exhibiting at the 10th Anniversary BDMA Convention. The BDMA’s 10th Anniversary Convention is to be held at Chesford Grange, near Warwick, and it promises to be a memorable event for the whole industry. BELFOR are exhibiting and also speaking on day two, Neal Courtney will be presenting a slot entitled ‘Adding value through Damage Management’ at 3.30pm. If you wish to know more about the event please click here.
17.11.09
BELFOR Joins BC Practitioners Forum 2009
On December 3rd BELFOR will be participating in a new event organized by NEEDHAMS called the Business Continuity Practitioners Forum 2009. This unique forum is dedicated to providing Business Continuity professionals with a better knowledge of the processes and tools to advance the practice of BC in their organisation. The forum will be presented as an exercise, during which delegates will receive a series of injects as the scenario unfolds. The delegates will have the opportunity to consider what steps are needed after each stage of the scenario in order to mitigate the impact. BELFOR will be an integral part of the expert panel which is in place to highlight considerations and methods to meet the challenges the delegates will have to deal with.
If you are interested in registering as a delegate please click here for more information.
02.11.09
BELFOR 'Market Briefing' hosted by the IUA
BELFOR will be hosting an IUA ‘Market Briefing’ entitled “CATS, surges and technical response” on November 17th 2009 at 12.30pm at Balls Brothers, Minster Court, EC3R 7PP
Speakers:
Theresa Williams – EVP, Marketing and Sales of BELFOR USA
Neal Courtney – Managing Director of BELFOR UK
Jess Millikan – Bullivant, Houser, Bailey PC (Attorneys at Law)
This market briefing will include presentations from Theresa Williams who will be speaking on “What Goes into CAT Response” including Pre-Planning, Logistics, Health and Safety, Security and Access, and Area Conditions and how these impact on activities. Followed by Neal Courtney who will review the effects of surge events in the UK and how disaster preparedness measures can assist in the mitigation of damage from these CAT type events. Jess Millikan will conclude by addressing legal implications and coverage problems in mass-claim situations: natural catastrophes and un-natural disasters.
To view the full details click here
If you wish to join us please RSVP by November 16th to Deborah Finch: deborah.finch(at)iua.co.uk
02.11.09
BELFOR exhibiting at BCM World Conference
This year BELFOR will be exhibiting at the BCM World Conference & Exhibition on November 11th & 12th.
The BCM World Conference and Exhibition is a major new event which incorporates the prestigious and well established Business Continuity Institute Symposium. Guaranteed to be the networking event of the year, the BCM World Conference and Exhibition will offer insight and knowledge to today’s BCM drivers. The conference will ensure a fresh and innovative approach to the topics that are shaping the world of business continuity.
Click here to register and come and visit us on stand 22 - ‘Help when every second counts’
19.10.09
BELFOR Hosts BC Seminar!
BELFOR recently hosted its first ‘Business Continuity Seminar’ open exclusively to RED ALERT customers. Specialist BC Consultant Steve Dance kicked off the day with a presentation highlighting the importance of Business Continuity and how it can help gain more business and retain existing clients.
After the presentation the group were involved in a series of demonstrations such as document and electronics restoration, target drying, sandblasting and soot removal film.
Red Alert customers hope they never have to use us, but they also know that when they do, we know how to deal with their incident professionally. The day was a successful event and we have received positive feedback so far from attendees. If you are interested in attending or organizing an open day please contact Lisa Hesketh to discuss. hesketh(at)uk.belfor.com
06.10.09
Expansion in Sales...
There have been some recent changes in the BELFOR sales office with some new faces joining the team. Sam Dawson (Key Accounts Team Manager) now heads up the BELFOR Key Accounts Team which comprises of new members Vicky Fenn (Key Account Manager) and Yvonne England (Key Accounts Team Assistant). The Key Accounts Team have overall responsibility for all BELFOR insurer contract business in the UK managing existing contracts and developing new relationships with UK insurers.
A new member to the team Chris Dayus (Commercial Development Manager) now heads up the BELFOR Commercial Team, which comprises of Rachel Newton (National Account Manager), and new member Richard Crossland (National Account Manager), Lisa Hesketh (RED ALERT Account Manager) with administrational support from Joanne Ellis. The Commercial Team will be working closely with Operations to manage current relationships with key customers and build and develop new relationships with Loss Adjusters and Brokers. RED ALERT® and Business Continuity services together with Direct Operational (DOW) services will also be managed by the BELFOR Commercial Team.
As well as managing existing customers the BELFOR sales teams will also be responsible for exploring and developing new business streams within the UK market.
14.09.09
BELFOR at the Insurance Times 'Claims Clinic'
BELFOR’s Managing Director - Neal Courtney, recently attended the 3rd annual 'Claims Clinic' as a panelist. Working alongside the Insurance Times this is the second 'Claims Clinic' BELFOR has taken part in throughout 2009 and BELFOR was proud to be a sponsor of the 1st ever 'Claims Clinic' back in February. The third event covered ‘The impact of climate change, natural catastrophes and disasters’ - climate change is undeniable and the day’s panelists debated the mounting challenges this poses for the insurance industry.
Neal Courtney commented:
“The round table discussions provided a useful forum to explore with experienced professionals from the insurance industry some of the current issues which they are addressing and how restoration services can actively contribute to this process. The afternoon session provided a good opportunity to meet with a cross-section of insurance industry professionals and review current issues, trends and initiatives which affect us all.”
01.09.09
BELFOR moves to new premises
As part of a national review of operational centres, BELFOR have recently completed moves to new industrial premises in Cardiff, and Copthorne. These new modern premises are located close to the road networks to provide fast access and a quicker response time to our customers.
Later in 2009, a further new unit is opening in Bristol, further strengthening our position in the south west. In addition the new buildings offer a 21st century environment for our operations teams, in keeping with our innovative approach to damage management.
17.08.09
BELFOR efficiency with van tracking
BELFOR UK have recently fitted vehicle trackers to all BELFOR Vans. Having trackers, not only allows us to be more efficient but also saves time and resources, to ensure we can visit more jobs in the time available through careful route planning and time management – making life easier for everyone!
The new trackers will enable the Call Centre to allocate labour according to the most efficient route available and also make it more convenient for our customers to have a clear idea when we will visit.
Each vehicle will be identifiable in ‘real time’ in terms of location, skill sets and equipment available on that van, so if emergency works are required the Call Centre can easily identify the closest, best equipped, most suitable and readily available member of Operations to attend. The added bonus is it also helps us identify and avoid large traffic jams in order to reduce the time spent stationary on the motorway.
03.08.09
BELFOR Links with Coventry University
Following overtures from Coventry University BELFOR is pleased to be able to announce that we have taken on a student placement from the Disaster Management degree course. BELFOR hopes that this action will help to tie the university course to the reality that is experienced in the operational field. The placement student, Richard Mapes, has been assigned to our BS25999 team whose ultimate goal is to attain the BCP standard for BELFOR’s own continuity planning.
20.07.09
BELFOR Launches Handheld Device
As part of our development strategy BELFOR has introduced and deployed handheld devices into its domestic field service utilising Samsung Q1 devices and bespoke software. The software is designed to enable electronic on-site data capture with near real time transmission back to the central database. This development allows BELFOR to more efficiently distribute jobs to its personnel, to more efficiently capture job related data on-site, and to make that data available to insurers, adjusters, and other interested parties far more rapidly. The current deployment represents only the first step in a long line of planned developments using this technology, developments that will see the devices in use to control commercial claims, to allow easy image capture and transmission from site, and to enable BELFOR to more efficiently utilise all of its resources in delivering its mitigation and restoration services.
06.07.09
BELFOR’s recruitment drive
In an economic climate where businesses are retrenching and downsizing BELFOR is delighted to be able to report that it is bucking the trend and expanding both its central administration function and its account management team. The central administration team is being expanded to allow BELFOR to accommodate the new streams of work it has secured while at the same time allowing BELFOR to continue with its plans to deliver a 24/7 call centre service. The expanded administration teams will allow BELFOR to deploy dedicated teams of claim handlers to each of its principal domestic clients.
BELFOR’s account management team is also being expanded. Three positions have been created to assist with developing and maintaining relationships between BELFOR and our key clients.
22.06.09
Neil Healy returns to BELFOR
Neil Healy has returned to BELFOR UK as Operations Manager with specific responsibility for Major and Specialist Losses. In addition to this Neil will be responsible for co-ordination of day-to-day operations nationwide through the commercial operations team of project managers, supervisors and specialist technicians.
Neil has an ideal background for this type of management role having worked in the disaster management industry for over 20 years gaining valuable practical experience managing both technical and major loss recovery projects involving damage to property, electronics, machinery and documents.
Neil says, “I have rejoined BELFOR at a very exciting time where the focus is clearly on growing the business and developing our services in line with the needs of the insurance and adjusting market.”
11.5.09
BELFOR’s New Oil Remediation Specialist
David Slater has recently joined BELFOR as 'Oil Remediation Manager' and is responsible for the project management of all of the domestic and commercial oil spill remediation work carried out by BELFOR. This includes inspections, remediation proposals, liaison with regulatory bodies as required, management of onsite works and verification reporting. David’s Career began with 12 years’ as a Chemist at a chemical manufacturers followed by 6 years as Technical Manager at a remediation contractor where he was mainly responsible for the technical design of small to large scale remediation projects. Already in his short career with BELFOR David has project managed a number of small to medium sized Oil remediation projects. This has included a house in the South East of England which suffered an oil escape beneath the sitting room floor; working closely with subcontractors, Loss Adjusters and the property owner the project required careful removal of the floors on both the sitting room and subsequently the dining room to ensure complete removal of impacted materials. All oil impacted materials were disposed of at a licensed facility and reinstatement work has recently been completed.
28.4.09
BELFOR Europe appoints COO (Chief Operational Officer)
We are delighted to announce that BELFOR Europe GmbH has appointed Mr. Conor Roche as COO for the group.
Conor Roche, originates from Ireland but is now living in Germany, he has previously worked at BELFOR from 1999 - 2003 as CFO in BELFOR USA. In 2003 he joined the Celesio Group, a subsidiary of the Franz Haniel & Cie. GmbH, as Corporate Director of Mergers & Acquisitions and from 2005 – 2008 he was Group CEO of Movianto GmbH, a multinational European logistics company operating across 10 European countries.
Conor Roche will be responsible for the operational business within BELFOR Europe as well as supporting the country managers on strategic planning and execution.
27.4.09
BELFOR strengthens its European Sales Force
Filippo Emanuelli, started his career in BELFOR in 1994 and in 1997 was appointed Managing Director of BELFOR Italia. We are please to announce has been recently been appointed as Director of the ISE - International Sales Europe Department. He will devote a great part of his efforts to this new responsibility, whilst still maintaining his position in BELFOR Italia.
14.4.09
Using innovative technology to restore an old church.
St Helens church dates back to 1340 and has undergone many renovations over the centuries. More recently however, a planned restoration project has called upon the services of BELFOR. As part of this project the church underwent some general restoration work both internal and external and as a part of that they needed a technique that would be able to ‘clean’ the interior Tottenhoe Clunch limestone pillars and arches whilst enabling the church to continue functioning. Luckily BELFOR had the perfect solution, the Tornado ACS!
BELFOR were called in to assist and were able to utilise a new technology, which leaves the stone looking bright and clean. The technique is a mobile negative pressure jet system for environmental preservation cleaning including layer removal and works by blasting the surface with an extremely fine powder. The stone instantly turns from a dark grey colour to a bright natural finish. The results are impressive. This new technology leaves the stone looking bright and clean without damaging the surface or the wall carvings. Although, it can be time consuming over large or detailed areas, it is a rewarding process with instantly visible and impressive results. Not only were the church authorities pleased with the end results but the Rector and congregation were delighted with the minimal disruption from our technique.
To view the entire case study - Click here
16.03.09
New Document Recovery Facility at BELFOR
BELFOR UK have recently invested and significantly increased the capacity of their document recovery and restoration facilities. This new capacity if now based at a brand new facility near Oxford, enabling rapid logistical support to London, the south and Midlands. BELFOR are now able to offer a broad range of services for document, book, and photographic media recovery. Our specialist machinery enables us to set drying systems for different types of media. We have dried antique documents and books, photographs and been involved in the consultancy for the recovery of a large collection of photographic negatives that were water damaged.
In total our document chambers have the capacity to dry approximately 360 archive boxes, or the equivalent of approximately 280 filing cabinet drawers or a quarter of a mile of shelved documents during any one time!
02.03.09
ACE Protect - in partnership with BELFOR
ACE Protect is a new property coverage aimed at companies which have installed sprinkler fire extinguishing systems in their premises.
ACE Protect offers training and risk management advice which is provided by ACE’s award winning team of Risk Engineers. In addition, direct access to emergency sprinkler leakage remediation services is available through BELFOR, leading experts in the reduction and control of damage following the leakage of water from sprinkler systems.
Commenting on the launch Steve Walker, ACE’s UK Property Underwriting Manager said:
“The ultimate aim of ACE Protect is to reduce the likelihood of adverse incidents and in the event that an incident does occur, help our insureds to minimise damage and consequent business interruption and get back to running their business as soon as possible.”
16.02.09
BELFOR Solutions - International Journal #6
BELFOR's International Journal - issue 6, is now available to download in .pdf format. This issue contains case studies and country profiles from around the BELFOR world.
This issues topic is ‘Professionalism’ and includes BELFOR UK’s latest case study, focusing on a complex loss in a food production factory.
Please CLICK HERE to view link to the latest issue.
If you wish to receive a paper copy please send a request to Joanne Ellis, e-mail communications(at)uk.belfor.com including your postal address and a contact name and number.
1.02.09
The Big Freeze
The start of 2009 saw freezing weather conditions across much of the UK, which has caused damage for many householders and businesses, who experienced frozen and subsequently burst water pipes. Whilst water companies deal with burst mains, householders relied on BELFOR to provide individual solutions! BELFOR saw it’s domestic workload doubled against forecasts for the January period. BELFOR has the expertise and capabilities to deal with this type of surge and helped to get people back on track in no time!
1.10.08
New Technical Development Manager
John Thompson has returned to BELFOR UK as our new Technical Development Manager within the Technical and Training Department based at Imbach House, Tamworth.
John will be co-ordinating and delivering the technical training calendar for the field technicians, representing BELFOR UK in Europe with the drying academy, and researching drying and leading edge technological developments for implementation at BELFOR.
1.9.08
BELFOR opens in Slovakia!
We are delighted to report that due to continued high demand of our unique & valuable services, BELFOR have opened an operational branch in Slovakia. BELFOR are now represented in 25 Countries across the planet, making us one of the largest providers for disaster recovery & restoration services. We realise that as our client portfolio increases in size and complexity operating in more locations around the world, BELFOR must maintain a reactive taskforce to mobilise in the event of a disaster. Therefore we will continue on our planned expansion programme into new countries meeting the needs of our highly valued clients.
1.7.08
'BELFOR's Disasters' - Charity Golf Day
BELFOR recently sponsored the Tamworth Lions charity golf day at Drayton Park Golf Club. BELFOR put forward a team of keen golfers, who aptly choose the team name ‘BELFOR’s Disasters’!
BELFOR sponsored the First Tee and donated a Nintendo Wii to the hospice. 'BELFOR’s disasters' made it round all 18 holes in one piece and even the rain didn’t douse their spirits. The event was in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice to raise much needed funds to support life-limited children and their families from across the Midlands – in total the event raised £2623!
1.6.08
Technical Briefing #04 – Document Restoration
This is the latest release in our series of BELFOR - Technical Briefings. Issue 4 features Document Restoration. BELFOR has years of expertise in document restoration, supported by a dedicated restoration workshop with specialist, high volume drying units. Please CLICK HERE to link to the briefing. (please wait a few moments for loading) If you wish to subscribe please e-mail Joanne Ellis - communications(at)uk.belfor.com
1.2.08
BELFOR Solutions - International Journal #5
BELFOR's Solutions (International Journal) - issue 5, is now available online. This issue contains case studies and country profiles from around the BELFOR world.
Please CLICK HERE to view online.
If you wish to receive a paper copy please send a request to Joanne Ellis, e-mail communications(at)uk.belfor.com including your address and a contact number.
1.1.08
Constructionline
BELFOR recently qualified for the prestigious accreditation , Constructionline. Building on the success of other accreditations recently gained, Constructionline has been a challenging accreditation to achieve with complex requirements.
Constructionline is the UK's register of pre-qualified local and national construction and construction-related contractors. Owned and endorsed by the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (formerly the DTI), they gather and assess pre-qualification information on behalf of public and private sector procurers. The Constructionline accreditation is not only a recognised endorsement of our health and safety practices.
1.12.07
A tight squeeze for BELFOR
BELFOR was recently called to a large leisure centre which had been the victim of the flooding when a nearby lake overflowed. BELFOR were appointed principal contractor and strict CDM Regulations had to be adhered to. High standards of health and safety were applied across the entire project. Risk assessments and method statements, were produced including emergency rescue procedures for the works which were to be carried out which included working at height and in confined spaces.
The area which caused most concern was a small section at the rear of the plant room, a tunnel-like area which was as low as 3ft in places. All staff working in the area were equipped with full chemical resistant coveralls and special respiratory equipment. A ‘rescue’ plan had to be written specifically for this section before any works could commence.
1.11.07
Safe Contractor approved
Following on from the success of gaining our IIP accreditation BELFOR UK also recently gained the ‘Safe Contractor’ accreditation. It is operated by international safe, health and environmental risk management specialists and is a scheme for business’s which helps consumers when appointing contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance or refurbishment. Safe contractor is an accreditation scheme that assesses the health & safety competency and track records of contractors and service providers and many large organisations now use ‘safe contractor’ as their primary means of selecting companies for work.
28.10.07
Largest specialist document drying unit in the UK
BELFOR UK recently received a ‘Mobile Thermal Vacuum Freezer Drying Unit’. The units are unique to BELFOR and are the biggest specialist document drying units in the world. Empty the unit weighs 23 tonnes and freezes to -51 degrees inside. Vacuum freeze-drying is the process of drying frozen materials by sublimation and desorption at low pressure and at sub zero temperatures. It then applies heat to the paper while in a sub zero vacuum which accelerates the rate of sublimation. The moisture which was contained in the paper is drawn out and is then frozen to the walls of the unit. The unit is capable of reducing the moisture content of documents back to its original state of approximately 6% and is considered the most effective vacuum method of removing moisture from paper materials.
4.9.07
All hands on deck at BELFOR
BELFOR UK have been appointed to assist in the specialist conservation of the Cutty Sark in London, following the fire which ripped through the vessel in May. Fortunately most of the original features had been removed prior to the incident; however, substantial fire and smoke damage was sustained to the decks. BELFOR’s schedule of works includes the removal of the charred wooden decks and lead-based paint from the metal framework of the hull. A polythene ‘tent’ has been erected over the ship in order to reduce the secondary damage from the varying weather conditions. It will take some time before the Tea Clipper will be back to its former glory but with the help of BELFOR it will soon be as good as new.
1.9.07
BELFOR UK gain IIP accreditation
BELFOR UK recently gained IIP accreditation for the company and are proud to now be able to promote the Investors in People Standard which will help to support BELFOR provide a framework to improve performance and realise objectives through the effective management and development of our people
1.8.07
Inundated with flood jobs
Following the recent and widespread flooding throughout June & July, BELFOR UK have been working round the clock to cope with the influx of jobs, both residential and commercial. The unprecedented flooding, the likes of which have never been seen before, have meant BELFOR UK have been handling residential jobs at 430% and commercial at over 200% of their normal workload and at the height of the flooding in Doncaster and Hull new instructions were being handled at 15 times normal rate. BELFOR UK is very fortunate that it is part of a global company and has been able to call on its European sister companies for assistance in providing specialist technical labour enabling us to meet the large demand for specialist mechanical, electronic and document restoration skills.
1.7.07
As good as new!
BELFOR have been working on a grade one listed Norman church in Devizes, Wiltshire. The church suffered a fire at the end of 2006 which devastated the inside causing extensive smoke damage throughout the interior.
BELFOR have been using SRF (Soot Removal Film) which was originally developed for this purposed is being used to restore the church’s stone work. The inside is mainly sandstone and with the careful application of the specialist film the church will be restored to its former glory in no time.
If you would like further information on SRF and its uses please contact Claire Read on 01827 310100 or via E-mail. Alternatively see our 3rd Technical Briefing also features in these news pages in November 2006.
1.6.07
Why mitigate the damage?
BELFOR were recently called to a hotel following a fire in December 2006, unfortunately BELFOR were not instructed straight away and so the hotel roof has been left uncovered and open to the elements throughout the first part of 2007.
Since the incident the building has been subjected to a real mix of weather which has attributed greatly to what the BELFOR team found when they arrived on site. Extensive secondary damage has occurred, such as range of mould and fungus which has complicated the restoration strategy.
This example provides first rate evidence of what happens when you don’t mitigate the damage early!
01.04.07
BELFOR in Pictures
Please see the link on our home page to view BELFOR’s all new image video and learn more about BELFOR and how Red Alert® can benefit you!
Alternatively click here to download the video (please wait a few moments for loading).
01.03.07
For the things you can't anticipate...BELFOR has the solution
For the third year running BELFOR will be exhibiting at the annual ‘Business Continuity Expo’ at ExCel in London. The focus for 2007 is ensuring operational continuity, come and visit us on stand 230 on March 28th and 29th between 9.30am & 4.30pm, or come and listen to our ‘Solutions Seminar’ at 10am on Wednesday 28th March where Sam Dawson will ask you “What is the missing part of your BCP?”
For further info or a free registration card please contact Claire Read on 01827 307616 and we look forward to seeing you there!
6.11.2006
Technical Briefing #03 - SRF (Soot Removal Film)
This is the latest release in our series of BELFOR - Technical Briefings. Issue 3 features Soot Removal Film (SRF). This is a latex based film, specially developed by BELFOR and provides an effective, efficient alternative to traditional wet wash techniques. Please click here to link to the briefing. (please wait a few moments for loading) If you wish to subscribe please e-mail Claire Read at info@uk.belfor.com
25.08.2006
Technical Briefing #02 - Heating Oil Contamination Remediation
Following on from the success of our first 'Technical Briefing' on 'Rope Access' we are proud to advise you that the second in the series is now complete. This feature covers 'Heating Oil Contamination Remediation' and provides interesting case studies with useful insights into the processes and remediation methods used to rectify this type of problem. Please click here to download the document. If you wish to subscribe please e-mail Claire Read at info@uk.belfor.com
20.06.2006
Technical Briefing #01 - Rope Access Solutions
Please click here to view the first in our series of BELFOR ‘Technical Briefings’ which focuses on our ‘Rope Access’ Capabilities and technologies. This is an information service from BELFOR to help keep you up to date on all of our specialist services and provide a useful insight into how our processes work and how you can utilise us effectively. These briefings are bi-monthly and we hope you enjoy the content, for further information or to automatically subscribe to our briefing please E-mail your request to Claire Read.
07.03.2006
Business Continuity Exhibition 2006
After the success of last years event BELFOR will once again be exhibiting at the annual Business Continuity Expo at ExCel in London. The exhibition this year is focusing on ‘Damage’ and using examples such as the explosion at Buncefield and the Carlisle flooding, BELFOR plans to demonstrate to visitors the importance of a good Business Continuity plan to reduce business ‘down time’ and how we can help to get you ‘Back in Business’ as soon as possible. Come and visit us on stand 600 on March 15th and 16th between 10am & 4pm, or come and listen to our seminar in Theatre 4 at 11.15am on Wednesday March 15th. We look forward to seeing you there!
08.02.2006
The Buncefield Oil Depot Explosion
The blast in Hemel Hempstead was the biggest fire in Europe since World War Two. It occurred just after 6am on Sunday 11th of Dec 2005 and left 80 companies who employ more than 4,000 people without premises and disrupted hundreds more. Leaving more than 300 homes with structural damage, it resulted in more than 2,000 residents being evacuated until the fire was bought under control. The 60 hour blaze took 3 days to extinguish and the total damage is estimated between £500M and £1bn. BELFOR UK had damage surveyors on-site as soon as the fire was extinguished and are currently working with 40 companies, the local council and education authorities
