To help, we’ve pulled together a go to guide of some of the products in our range that can be operated by two or less people, helping to limit the number of people having to share a workstation to the absolute minimum - 

TuffBench
The TuffBench is a durable, built to last, staple product that requires only one person to operate. It is an easy to use, and easy to transport, collapsible work platform. It’s heavy duty design that withstands a weight loading capacity of up to 300kg. The Tuffbench is ideal for use with attachments such as power tools, vices and pipe threaders. 

LA750-PRO
Transport materials safely with the Loadall LA750-PRO. This trolley reduces the need for people on-site working in close proximity. With two people to load but only one to transport including clamps to safely secure the materials. It is a dependable product that will help you move materials from A to B, both safely and efficiently, whether it be through doorways or narrow spaces. The swivelling heavy duty castors and telescopic handle makes moving a fully loaded trolley light work.

CuttingStation
The CuttingStation is a mobile workstation for the safe cutting of long lengths of materials. It’s castors allow for easy maneuvering and aid social distancing as it can be transported to various designated areas and allows for one individual to operate safely. It's essential when cutting lengths, such as conduit, timber, cable tray and pipe.

InstaGate
The InstaGate is a multipurpose unit that can be easily moved and deployed by one person, available in two heights and extending up to 2m, means it can play a crucial part in keeping within government guidelines of maintaining a safe distance in the workplace. It can be used to cordon off areas and segregate workers. New accessories also allow the fixing and linking of InstaGates for extra length and stability. We don't know why you wouldn't use the InstaGate.

Forma-Shelta 
The Forma-Shelta is a purpose-built welfare unit. Erectable in ten minutes, with a fold down bench for dedicated seating, it provides a safe and dedicated area for users to hold external meetings, reducing the risk of high level footfalls and confinement to office buildings. 
Featuring forklift pockets and crane lifting eyes it is suitable for quick transportation to where it’s needed most. 

#WinningWithArmorgard

COSHH Storage

In our COSHH compliant storage range, we’ve brought our ‘A’ game - you’re bound to have the winning card with Armorgard!

• Forma-Stor COSHH is the COSHH compliant version of our famous flat-packed, walk-in store.
• TransBank: the only solution you need for COSHH compliant transportation of jerry cans and fuels.
• Need flammables on site stored safely and in accordance with COSHH regulations? The only way forward is the ever-popular FlamBank.
• Not to be fooled by its name, the Gorilla Gas Cage is a unique security cage for storing gas cylinders using simple, modular panels

Manual Handling

Here’s a new set of top trumps – is it the winning one for you? Every product in this pack eases manual handling so you’re always ahead of the game!

• LoadAll LA750-PRO - look no further for a unique, innovative board trolley that safely and effortlessly transports boards around site.
• RubbleTruck is an on-site game changer when handling, transporting and tipping waste and rubble!
• PipeRack is an innovatively designed storage rack for pipe and conduit that easily manoeuvres around sites.
• Flexikart is the safe, multi-purpose folding skate to mobilise materials on site.

Work Platforms and Units

You’ll be a winner in any game with the work platforms and units range from Armorgard! Check out our set of top trump cards – when it comes to efficiency on site, you’re in for the win.

• InstaGate is the next generation crowd control barrier, safely cordoning off vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Also featuring its new accessory kits!
• SiteStation is everything you need and more in a mobile site office to keep you close to the action...
• CuttingStation is the market leading solution for safely cutting materials on site, because your safety always comes first.
• Mobile TuffBench is the perfect definition of ‘multi-purpose’. A strong, reliable workbench that’s also a heavy-duty cabinet!

Equipment and tool storage

The Armorgard equipment and tool storage range is a game changer! If you’ve got one of these boxes for your vehicle, workshop or on site, you’re bound to be in the running for security victory!

• TuffBank is our best selling secure storage solution, with police accreditation.
• OxBox: The simple yet dependable box for when budget is a consideration.
• TrekDror is the sliding drawer solution to your worries of an unorganised van that lacks security.
• Forma-Stor: A robust, flat-packed, walk-in store that can be built in under 10 minutes!

Stock products always available for next day delivery.

Want to be a winner? It’s simple - #AskForArmorgard.

The “unsung heroes” of Armorgard are the products that save your site. The supermen to your manual handling. The ones to rescue your equipment from villains, and ensure that safety comes first when storing hazardous substances.

​​Our hero of the week: FlamStor Cabinet

The FlamStor Cabinet FSC4 and FSC5 is defender of hazardous substances, whilst keeping them organised and accessible. Saving the world, one safe, secure storage cabinet at a time.

• Specially designed flameproof vents to prevent build-up of fumes
• A fully welded and tested sump base to catch those unwanted supervillain substances
• Fitted with hero attire: comes with warning stickers and complies with all relevant COSHH regulations

Previous weeks' heroes: Forma-Stor

Heroes often need to move quickly to where they’re needed most - which certainly is the case for the Forma-Stor Tool and COSHH range. They have super abilities in quick and easy transporting!

• Secret weapons: BlokkaBar to enhance security, ramp for ease of access, shelves to organise equipment and lights for easier visibility (FR-T only)
• Both ranges can be flat packed and assembled, ready for action in as little as 10 minutes!
• Each range is available in 4 sizes, so you can choose the best hero for you!

BeamKart

The hero that carries beams and steels. The Armorgard BeamKart is the reliable choice that’s robust enough for a hero's life on site, yet nimble enough to become an essential when needing to transport beams and steels.

• The puncture proof solid rubber tyres aren’t to be confused with ones you'd usually see on a batmobile
• A super strength load capacity of 500kg
• The BK1 has upright sides to help handle materials
• The BK2 comes without upright sides to enable handling of wider materials

RubbleTruck

Saving your site from rubble, 400 litres at a time. The Armorgard Rubble Truck is the hero on site for transporting materials and waste. Its lid can be confused for its cape, designed to increase capacity by 160L & keep the dust contained. Its superpowers are endless:

• Built-in tipping feature, which helps with handling and tipping waste and rubble
• Unique stackable design to maintain a safe and organised working space
• Extra strength crane lifting eyes to help it fly!

BarroBox

The clear winner when it comes to mobile, secure tool vaults! This unique product helps keep tools secure wherever you need them. The BarroBox’s superpower is transforming/shape-shifting from ‘static’ to ‘mobile’ within seconds - any construction worker’s must-have!

• The only product of its kind on the market
• Robust and secure with anti-jemmy features
• Innovative shape-shifting static-to-mobile superpower

More information about the BarroBox here!

SiteStation

The SiteStation is a clever, robust, secure mobile office which supports socially distanced meetings and provides a neat area to store office equipment. The hero of taking everything you need from the office to the site.

• 110V LED lighting fitted as standard for the darker months
• Secure lockable compartments to store valuable equipment and PPE
• 110v power available for charging electronic items

ScrubKart

Join the fight against the spread of viruses and bacteria with the ScrubKart. Saving your hands from the cold, this instant warm water hand washing solution helps you stay clean anywhere on site.

• Built to last, with solid rubber tyres for rough terrains
• 110v or 240v power, designed to save the day on construction sites
• Foot-operated tap and sink, with a kick bin and built-in paper towel & soap dispenser… truly the hero of hand washing!

#ArmorgardUnsungHeroes

We also raised money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, an air medical charity that provides healthcare to those in the rural/outback areas.

Armorgard Australia has seen a successful first year, and we look forward to many more!

Explore our range on our website.

Meet Armorgard Australia.

Keep up with the latest on Armorgard Australia on LinkedIn.

Due to the current pandemic, we joined the strategy day from 44 separate locations. We were all dressed in solidarity in our Armorgard t-shirts to celebrate all the highs from 2020, and discuss the plans we have in place for 2021.

Although we’re not allowed to disclose it all to you just yet, we can tell you that we have plenty of exciting plans up our sleeve!

2020 was a big (and rather unusual!) year for everybody. We reflected on what we have learnt from the year, and shared some funny moments too. We were socially distanced for a lot of it, but we had a great year!

We are all very happy to have welcomed in the new year and are excited to see what’s coming in 2021 and beyond. A big thank you to everyone who was involved with Armorgard in 2020, we look forward to an even better year ahead!

Armorgard is open as usual - please contact us for any enquiries at sales@armorgard.co.uk or 02392 380 280.

This multipurpose unit can be easily moved and deployed by one person, to safely cordon off high pedestrian and vehicle traffic areas.

Coupled with its accessories: the linking kit and anchor kit, you can securely and safely fix the InstaGate to hoarding or a flat surface, and link to other units to stay connected.

With a 750kg load capacity, this sturdy trolley is ideal for moving materials around busy construction sites and storing them off the ground.

The external defibrillator has now been installed and is available for the local community to use in times of emergency. 

• Did you know that every 5 minutes, someone is admitted to hospital due to a heart attack?

We feel passionately about the welfare and wellbeing of the local community, and that’s why we’re very proud that we all worked together and hit our target of 10 million steps in just 4 weeks to be able to make this happen.

The defibrillator is located on the outside of the building next to reception at the Armorgard head office. Please feel free to visit our offices to familiarise yourself with the unit. 

Click here for the location.

Merci de bien vouloir noter que les dernières expéditions de l’année seront effectuées le 22 décembre 2020. Toute commande nécessitant une livraison avant la période de fermeture devra être effectuée avant 12h00 le 22 décembre.

Notre équipe sera de retour au bureau le 5 janvier 2021 et la reprise des livraisons se fera ce même jour.

Toute commande passée entre 12h00 le 22 décembre 2020 et 12h00 le 5 janvier 2021 sera expédiée le 5 janvier pour une livraison à partir du 6 janvier.

Nous vous souhaitons de très belles fêtes et vous adressons nos meilleurs vœux pour la nouvelle année i

Please note that our last day of dispatch will be the 22nd December 2020. Any orders requiring delivery before the break must be placed before 15:00 on 22nd December.

The team will be returning to the office on 5th January 2021, and normal dispatch service will resume on 5th January.

Orders placed between 15:00 on 22nd December 2020 and 15:00 on 5th January 2021 will be dispatched on 5th January for delivery on 6th January.

Wishing you a lovely festive break and all the best for the new year!

TrekDror

• Maximiser l’espace, améliorer l’organisation et sécuriser vos outils

Nos clients reconnaissent que l’installation de nos tiroirs de rangement modulaires et empilables TrekDrors à l’intérieur de leur véhicule utilitaire permet de gagner de la place et d’optimiser le stockage des outils. L’accès aux équipements se fait facilement par les compartiments coulissants qui s’ouvrent jusqu’à 80 %. Ce qui est encore plus fort, c’est que nos TrekDrors sont sécurisés avec deux serrures à mortaise 5 leviers pour une protection encore accrue.

Les accessoires en option incluent un kit d’empilage pour sécuriser les tiroirs les uns au dessus des autres, un kit de montage pour les fixer au sol d’un véhicule, des séparations amovibles pour organiser les outils et des tapis en caoutchouc pour garnir le fond des tiroirs.

Forma-Stor

• Une unité de stockage robuste livrée à plat qui peut être montée en moins de 10 mn

Le conteneur Armorgard Forma-Stor est sécurisé, rapide à assembler et facile à transporter sur les chantiers. Lorsqu’il est utilisé dans le secteur du Rail, il n’est pas nécessaire de se préoccuper de fermetures ou d’interruptions de lignes. Nous avons conçu Forma-Stor pour qu’il puisse être utilisé dans des zones à l’accès difficile pour que le travail puisse se faire facilement et efficacement.

Nous avons récemment lancé 4 nouveaux accessoires pour la gamme Forma-Stor qui le rendent encore plus efficace qu’avant. Blokkabar, des éclairages LED, une rampe et des étagères sont maintenant disponibles ! 

LoadAll

• La gamme LoadAll diminue le stress lié à la manutention manuelle lorsqu’il est nécessaire de déplacer de grandes plaques de matériaux sur un chantier

Le dernier modèle LoadAll d’Armorgard, le LA750-PRO, optimise la productivité sur les chantiers grâce à un système de pinces pour maintenir les matériaux et éviter d’avoir recours à l’utilisation de sangles pour sécuriser les plaques lors de leur manutention. La poignée télescopique accroît la sécurité. Le design unique avec un cadre en H permet de manœuvrer facilement au travers des portes et dans les angles, le rendant encore plus efficace. Regardez LA750-PRO en action.

InstaGate

• Une barrière de sécurité légère et rapide à déployer pour sécuriser une zone interdite d’accès en quelques secondes

La barrière de sécurité Armorgard InstaGate est conçue pour être déployée rapidement lorsqu’il est nécessaire de canaliser la foule et permet de gagner du temps et d’optimiser l’efficacité. Son cadre aluminium est léger et robuste, il confère à la barrière InstaGate une solidité optimale. Les bords arrondis évitent de se coincer les mains ! Découvrez IntaGate en action.

Ce ne sont que quelques exemples pour démontrer que le design des produits Armorgard maximise l’efficacité et la productivité. Votre façon de travailler est importante pour nous, nous profitons donc de la Semaine Internationale de la Sensibilisation au Stress pour insister sur le fait que l’utilisation d’équipements inefficaces au travail est un facteur de stress.

Si un outil ou un équipement vous procure du stress dans le cadre de votre travail, remplacez-le. Renseignez-vous pour découvrir des alternatives plus efficaces et sécurisées.

Appelez notre équipe au + 33 (0) 4 81 16 06 69 ou écrivez à commercial@armorgard.fr si vous souhaitez plus d’informations au sujet de nos produits.

Its unique, quick assembly, flat packed design means that it can be constructed where it’s needed in as little as 10 minutes. Coupled with crane lifting eyes and fork pockets for ease of transportation.

Armorgard has a range of products designed especially for the storage of hazardous goods and substances safely.

We have selected some of our best COSHH compliant products to secure your hazardous goods for all situations, whether on-site or in transit:

1. FlamBank

This ultra-robust chest safely stores your dangerous and flammable substances.

Each box features a fully welded and tested sump base to prevent leakage. Available in 7 different sizes, the Armorgard FlamBank is ideal for use on site, in workshops and even for vehicles.

The FlamBank is built to specification for 1/2 hour fire resistance and has flame arrestor gauze fitted on all ventilation.

2. ChemBank

Similar to the FlamBank, the Armorgard ChemBank is specifically designed to store chemicals.

Finished in bright yellow with relevant hazard warning signs, this product fully complies with HSE requirements. The range is fully welded and tested to prevent leakage.

As standard, all ChemBanks have strong gas struts and safety catches fitted.

3. TransBank

The Armorgard TransBank is a range of secure storage boxes for the transport of fuel, in accordance with Health, Safety and Environment regulations.

The range protects against theft, fire and fuel leaks. 

• They’re perfect for vehicles as they come with pre-drilled fixing points so that the box can be secured.
• Constructed from heavy-duty steel, this range is designed to accommodate standard fuel jerry cans and suitable as a chemical safe.
• Over-centre catch with padlock facility - securing goods whilst in transit.

Available in 5 different sizes, these boxes have a capacity between 15L and 90L.

4. DrumBank

Our family of DrumBank products has been specially designed for the safe storage and handling of drums and IBC containers.

The DrumBank range features a reinforced door and 5-lever deadlocks to protect your products against theft.

It is fully compliant with fully welded sumps containing any leakages or spillages, and features other benefits such as a durable powder coating and safe, easy access with strong gas struts.

5. Forma-Stor COSHH

Our COSHH compliant Forma-Stor - the quick-assembly modular storage unit for hazardous products.

The Forma-Stor COSHH is 30 minute fire resistant, with air vents, and has a fully welded sump to prevent leaks into the environment. The Forma-Stor COSHH can be assembled in as little as 10 minutes with few tools required.

The forklift pockets and crane lifting eyes come as standard, making the Forma-Stor COSHH even easier to move around site. The range is available in 4 sizes.

Discover the full Armorgard hazardous goods range - visit our website. For specific enquiries about a COSHH product or any other additional information, contact us on 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk.

We’ll let our customers speak for themselves…

Explore the FlamBank here, or find out more about the FlamStor Cabinet here!

More about our range of 5L hand sanitiser bottles can be found here.

Armorgard designs and manufactures some of the best agricultural and landscaping products in the market, making workplaces safer and more secure.

We’ve picked the top 5 products perfect for the agricultural and landscaping industry - available for next day delivery!

1. StrimmerSafe Rack

This unique upright storage system keeps strimmers secure and organised, while also maximising storage space. The multi-purpose storage system can be used for up to five strimmers, or other machinery such as hedge cutters and chainsaws, ensuring your supplies are kept secure.

Why we love it:

• Highly secure unit to protect vulnerable equipment with 2 x 5 lever deadlocks
• Secures up to 5 strimmers
• Provision to bolt on to a wall for added security

2. StrimmerSafe Vault

The ultra-tough secure vault for storing strimmers and other long handled tools. Benefiting from anti-force construction and heavy-duty locking mechanism, meaning that when the lid is shut and locked, you can rest assured that your strimmers are protected with maximum security.

It’s one of our top picks because it has:

• Strong gas struts fitted to industry standards, allowing easy and safe access
• Snug storage position that keeps strimmers secure
• Double slots for storing 1 or 2 strimmers

3. TransBank

This cost-effective secure container is purpose built to ensure that you comply with all legal COSHH requirements for storing hazardous goods. This coupled with the added protection from theft, fire and leakage, makes this product a necessity.

It’s great because it’s:

• Suitable for chemicals and flammables
• Robust steel plate construction for maximum protection
• Integral fixing points which allow vault to be secured to the floor or vehicle

4. FlamBank

The ultra-tough lockable vault for storing hazardous chemicals and flammables. This product is specially designed to comply with all relevant COSHH regulations.

Key features include:

• Strong gas struts and safety catch fitted as standard to conform with industry standards
• Fully welded base to prevent leakage
• Keyed alike 5 lever deadlocks both sides and 6mm reinforcement around the lock

Castors available as an optional extra.

5. Gorilla Gas Cage

The unique galvanised security cage that is specially designed for storing gas cylinders, featuring a modular bolt-together design making it simple to dismantle.

There’s also:

• Relevant hazard warning signage attached
• Facility to fix to ground for added security and stability.
• Ability to be quickly dismantled when not in use and stored as individual panels. 

Want to safely, securely and compliantly store your agricultural and landscaping equipment?

Products available now for next day delivery!

Get in touch with us now via phone, email or video call!

Now, we have another one to add to the list - the easier and safer way to sanitise large areas and keep public places clean! We have partnered with Sanique to deliver the ultimate, secure, mobile sanitising sprayer.

Here are 5 reasons why the SpeedSpray is one of our most innovative products yet:

1. Sanique’s market leading electric sprayer

We have partnered our top level, secure mobile storage with Sanique’s S3 Electric Sanitising Sprayer to deliver the SpeedSpray = a combination of the best.

2. Made mobile and secure with Armorgard

With a secure cabinet with 5-lever deadlocks to store PPE, extra sanitising supplies and a built-in mixing tank, the SpeedSpray is a no fuss, plug in and play unit! The heavy duty castors make transporting the unit even easier.

3. Hose reach of up to 15m

Need to sanitise an area that’s hard to reach? No problem. Every unit comes with a hose reach of up to 15m, with an optional 15m extension available too!

4. Lightweight spray lance and discrete unit

The spray tip is ergonomically designed to reduce wrist fatigue and is also lightweight to help with spraying. The SpeedSpray is also much quieter than it looks!

5. Provides one hour’s worth of continual spray

The built-in mixing tank enables continuous spraying of up to one hour, maximising efficiency when sanitising large areas.

We might be biased, but we use it in our office and we love it.

Watch our BRAND NEW video of the SpeedSpray in action here!

Perfect for offices, airports, shopping centres, classrooms and many more large, high footfall areas. 

Interested? We’re more than happy to help:

Call 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk!

That’s why our range of manual handling products, efficient whilst also improving site safety, combined with the robust and innovative designs, makes these products an essential for any construction site.

1. LoadAll

The LA750-PRO was designed specifically to ease manual handling when transporting large sheet materials. With its unique H-frame design coupled with the swivel wheels, manoeuvring a full load is easy. This design not only makes transportation simple, but saves space and protects your materials.

Other unique features:

• Collapsible and stackable for efficient storage
• Innovative clamps removing the need for ratchet straps; preventing overloading and boards falling off
• Certified to carry a weight limit of 750kg

2. PipeRack

The Armorgard PipeRack is an innovatively designed wheeled storage rack that keeps your pipes organised while also making it easy to manoeuvre while working on site. The PipeRack is available in both a 1 tonne and 2 tonne load capacity. 

Why it’s in our top 5:

• Fitted with ultra-robust industrial swivel castors
• All steel heavy duty construction
• Collapsible and stackable up to 6 units high

3. RubbleTruck

Designed for maximum performance and efficiency, the rubble truck pulls on an array of unique features to create a multi-purpose companion. This key piece of equipment makes handling waste and rubble simple while maintaining a safe and clutter free working space.

A strong, heaped lid is available as an optional extra to prevent items falling off whilst being crane lifted.

It also has:

• An enormous 400 litre capacity scoop
• Robust construction engineered for heavy use with solid rubber wheels
• A stackable design

4. BeamKart

The Beamkart makes transporting beams and steels effortless. The design is robust enough for site use while lightweight enough to quickly become an essential for moving heavy and bulky items daily.

Why it’s great:

• There’s a weight capacity of up to 500kg!
• Puncture proof tyres for easy and safe manoeuvring on site
• The BK2 has no upright sides which enables handling of wider materials

5. TurnTable Truck

Our Turnable Truck takes the full strain of transporting bulk quantities of material and equipment when you really need it. Featuring large, puncture proof solid rubber wheels and precision steering that makes moving simple!

More features include:

• Powder coated finish
• Raised heavy duty deck for good ground clearance and easy loading
• Soft grip handles

All Armorgard products are built to last, so rest assured they’ll be there for you for the long term.

Want to make manual handling easier? Explore our purpose built range. 

Talk to our team via phone or email, or head to our website for more information.

The three counties worst affected by the cost of rural crime were Lincolnshire (£2.8 million), Essex (£2.7 million) and North Yorkshire (£2.2 million).

Patrick Govier, NFU Mutual Agent in Hampshire, said: “There are fears that the impact will be felt harder this year as farmers have been working flat-out to feed the nation and many rural communities have been put under additional pressure by the challenges brought by COVID-19.”

Ensure that your equipment is kept as secured as possible in vehicles and on site, with some of the strongest solutions on the market. We’ve picked just 4 of our built to last, ultra secure storage solutions for the agricultural market:

TuffBank

Our best-selling tool and equipment storage solution, perfect for vehicles, workshops or sites.

• Sold Secure and Secured by Design accreditation: Our TuffBanks adhere to rigorous test standards required by the police
• Unique internal anti-jemmy system to help prevent the lid from being forced open
• Available in 8 different sizes

FormaStor

A flat-packed, quick-assembly, modular solution for secure storage on a larger scale.

• Can be built from it’s flat-packed form in under 6 minutes! Can be delivered pre-erected.
• Heavy-duty doors with 5-lever deadlocks and jemmy-proof joins
• COSHH range available for if you are storing hazardous substances
• Available in 4 sizes 

(Pictured: the Forma-Stor COSHH for hazardous goods storage)

StrimmerSafe Rack

The unique upright storage system for securing your strimmers and other long handled equipment.

• Highly secure unit with twin 5-lever deadlocks and a hinged heavy-duty welded lid
• Provision for bolting to a wall to maximise security
• Can be used to secure up to 5 strimmers or for hedge cutters, leaf blowers, chainsaws, etc.

StrimmerSafe Vault

The ultra-tough secure vault for storing strimmers and other long handled tools.

• Fits 1 or 2 strimmers, perfect for vehicles or workshops
• Ultra-tough, anti-force construction
• Available in 3 sizes

​

It was warned that figures this year would be affected by the coronavirus crisis, which has sparked an increase in rural crime.

We’re on a mission to help tackle crimes like this, with our in-house R&D team constantly working to innovate our products to ensure that your equipment is stored in some of the toughest solutions on the market.

Explore our range here: https://www.armorgard.co.uk/markets/agriculture

The vehicle is also used as a motorsport and adverse weather support unit, aiding the Welsh Ambulance Service in snow conditions and even for transporting key workers to hospitals.

Kym Godwin is a Helideck Responder for the NHS at the University Bristol and Weston Hospital Trust. He will be using the Armorgard OxBox in the vehicle to store valued tools and rescue equipment. We caught up with Kym to find out more about his work.

• Please tell us a little about the work you and the team do?

I’m a Helideck Responder at the University Bristol and Weston Hospital Trust. My job role is an exciting but, at times, demanding job where time is of the essence as I have to land Helimed helicopters safely on site 365 days a year.

There is only a team of 3 for this so we are a close knit team working in shifts so that the deck is covered whilst open in all weathers, as we can land a helicopter in up to 50 knot winds.

• What is the OxBox going to be used for?

I’m using the OxBox in the back of my 4x4 vehicle to secure some high value tools and rescue equipment that I carry. Unfortunately in the past, I have been a victim of crime and had vital rescue tools stolen. This will now give peace of mind that, when needed, the tools will still be there.

• How will the OxBox be helping your work?

 As the 4x4 is a multi-role support unit, depending on the season, it will carry a range of tools. 

The vehicle could be out with myself as an adverse weather unit for the trust I work for, or helping the Welsh Ambulance Service in snow conditions, or getting doctors and key staff to a hospital. If I get free time once we gradually open up, the 4x4 becomes a Motorsport Support Unit as I’m a marshal, so it carries safety equipment. Again, having it all in the OxBox makes it handy - in one place, ready to go at a moment’s notice and above all, secure!

• How important is it to have a secure, robust box to carry your equipment?

Above all, the OxBox gives peace of mind that if I open the door of the 4x4, the tools and rescue equipment will still be there 365 days a year, 24/7.

Thank you very much to Kym for taking the time to tell us about his work. We are delighted and privileged to be able to support the amazing work that Kym and his team do.

The Armorgard OxBox: https://www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/oxbox

Keep up to date with Armorgard on our social media channels:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/armorgard-ltd  

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArmorgardLtd/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ArmorgardLtd 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armorgard/

Featuring contemporary interior design by Goddard Littlefair and world-class leisure facilities, the development is situated around a private courtyard garden for the ultimate modern lifestyle.

The first phase, Millbank Quarter, is an exciting collection of 95 new-build apartments that celebrate the neoclassical style of its architectural past. The second release, Millbank Residences is a restoration of the iconic 9 Millbank address, made up of 94 Manhattan to 4 bedroom apartments, maintaining all of the original historic listed features.

The project is currently underway, with Millbank Residences to be reconstructed and completed in 2023.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of occupational health in regards to washing hands and keeping hygiene to a high standard was of maximum importance as protection and prevention of the virus became more and more imperative.

The Armorgard ScrubKart is a warm water, 110v powered, mobile hand washing kart, purpose built for construction sites. With 120 hand washes per 25L tank, this foot operated, built to last unit takes staying safe on construction sites to the next level.

After consultation and review with Armorgard, the project chose the ScrubKart due to its versatility and its ability to move to work areas quickly.

It gives operatives in the work area the ability to wash their hands anywhere on the project with an instant supply of warm water. Washing hands for 20 seconds at the first opportunity, using soap and water, has become the preferred choice for the project which will help keep hands clean and avoid spread of the virus.

More about the Armorgard ScrubKart can be found here.

Want to keep construction sites safe with top quality hand washing units?

Talk to our friendly team via email, phone or video call.

• Free standing and hands-free

There’s no installation required for the S10HF. It’s a free standing sanitiser dispenser, and is foot operated, so entirely touch free.

• Anti-theft features

The range is robust and strong, meaning that you can leave the SaniStation Mini unattended and trust it to do its job. Bottles of hand sanitiser gel can be stored in the base and secured with a lock, minimising the likelihood of theft.

• 5L bottle capacity

The SaniStation Mini is compatible with 5L bottles, dispensing up to 2,500 pumps with each one - minimising the need to replace them frequently.

• Low dosage pump

A low dosage pump means that 2ml of hand sanitiser gel will be pumped every time, reducing spillage and unnecessary waste of gel - prolonging the life of each bottle.

• Built-in extra storage

With extra storage room for hand sanitiser refills built-in, this adds to the speed and ease of replacing bottles in busy areas.

• Mobile or fixed

Add castors to the SaniStation Mini (S10P and S10HF) so it can be moved easily and quickly to areas where it’s needed most, or fix it to the floor to ensure that it stays positioned where needed most. The S10WM offers the option to be mounted to a wall with a hex screw.

Help the public stay clean and safe with the most efficient and reliable hand sanitiser dispenser on the market.

Order your touchless sanitiser dispenser station now for next day delivery, in stock at our UK warehouse.

Watch the S10HF in action!

Call 02392380280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk.

Connect with us on social media! We’re on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

We have made sure that there’s a product solution designed for every eventuality. From use on construction sites through to retail, schools, hospitals and other leisure facilities, whether the need be for sanitising or instant hand washing. It’s always been our mission at Armorgard to keep you safe.

Click on the image below to view our product ranges and discover the best product for you:

More information about the full range here.

We supply hand sanitisers, sanitiser wipes and dispensers as standalone products, perfect for the range seen above.

Interested? Please contact us via:

• Phone 023 9238 0280
• Email sales@armorgard.co.uk
• Chat with us using Microsoft Teams, Zoom or WhatsApp
• Connect with us on our social media channels - LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

If you have any enquiries, we are very happy to help.

Armorgard is operating as usual, delivering you your goods safely and on next day delivery. Rest assured your enquiries remain answered with our top level service.

Thank you to everyone for your support and we hope you remain safe and well.

Click here to discover our range of support products to help fight against the pandemic.

Please contact us via:

• Phone 023 9238 0280
• Email sales@armorgard.co.uk
• Chat with us using Microsoft Teams, Zoom or WhatsApp
• Connect with us on our social media channels - LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Meet our SaniStation range - here to keep you safe during the most crucial times. The range of unique solutions for the immediate deployment of a central hand sanitising station.

SaniStation S20

A simple, dependable and easy to use hand sanitising station. With 2 wheels for mobility and a compartment with padlock to secure extra refills and sanitising products, the S20 is the choice for a simple, cost effective hand sanitising station.

• Easily relocatable with two wheels
• Both sides can be utilised
• Sealed lockable compartment, with padlock facility
• Complies with EN 1276, EN 13704, EN 14476, and EN 1500
• Suitable for external use

Comes as standard with 1 x pump dispenser, 1 x 5L hand sanitiser and relevant sanitising signage.

SaniStation S40

The S40 is a two-sided, eye-catching and robust hand sanitising unit. It is multi-purpose, with space for sanitising as well as other relevant Health & Safety notices. With a strong, weatherproof, steel construction, it is both built to last, and easy to wipe clean. Perfect for slightly larger sites and long-term outdoor use. 

Optional heavy-duty castors and secure storage for additional supplies makes it an all-in-one sanitising solution. 

• Two-sided to promote segregation and multi-use
• Durable wipe-clean surface
• Wide shelf to store additional items
• Suitable for external use
• Complies with EN 1276, EN 13704, EN 14476, and EN 1500

Comes as standard with 2 x pump dispensers, 1 x 5L hand sanitiser and relevant sanitising signage.

SaniStation Pro SP140

An all in one customisable, mobile solution for sanitising and tank fed cold-water hand washing.

There's no need for plumbing, giving you flexibility in where you locate it. There's a foot pump operated stainless steel sink and tap one side, and room for sanitising products or other health & safety notices on the reverse. As well as lockable storage space for additional supplies, SaniStation Pro is the ultimate product to ensure maximum cleanliness.

• Tank fed cold water and self-contained waste
• 25L capacity
• 2 x hand-free swing bins
• Foot pump operated tap
• Lockable compartment as standard for supplies
• Fitted with castors as standard
• Complies with EN1276, EN13704, EN14476 and EN1500​

Comes as standard with 2 tanks for clean & dirty water, soap dispenser, paper towel dispenser, 2 x sanitiser dispensers, 2 x hands-free swing bins, heavy-duty castors and relevant signage.
 

SaniStation Pro SP160

Another variation of the SaniStation Pro, this time offering mains fed water, designed to supply constant cleanliness.

Again, this unit has a foot pump operated stainless steel sink and tap one side and room for sanitising products or other health & safety notices on the reverse, as well as lockable storage space for additional supplies.

• Mains water fed, mobile, hand washing and sanitising unit
• Feed and waste pipe connection points
• Foot pump operated tap
• 25L capacity
• 2 x hand-free swing bins
• Foot pump operated tap
• Lockable compartment as standard for supplies
• Fitted with castors as standard
• Complies with EN1276, EN13704, EN14476 and EN1500

Comes as standard with connections for mains water & waste, 1 x soap dispenser, 1 x paper towel dispenser, 2 x sanitiser dispensers, 2 x hands-free swing bins, castors fitted as standard, relevant signage.

Across the range of SaniStation products, optional extras include:

• Manual dispensers
• Upgrade to automatic dispensers
• Paper towel dispensers
• 5L alcohol-free hand sanitiser
• 5L alcohol based hand sanitiser 
• Bucket of 225 sanitiser wipes
• Bucket of 500 sanitiser wipes

The whole range is available to order now, so if you’re interested, contact us!

Call us on 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk. We’re also happy to video chat - let’s help keep each other safe.

The ScrubKart is available with heated water at 110v or 240v power, safely on construction sites. No plumbing needed! The ScrubKart is tank-fed and there are 2 x 25L capacity tanks for the storage of both freshwater and self-contained waste - which allows up to 120 hand washes, minimising the need of having to replace tanks frequently.

Constructed from robust, heavy-duty steel, the ScrubKart is built for purpose and built to last on construction sites. The 350mm solid rubber tyres can take on rougher terrains and make the kart easily mobile, so that it can be placed at focal points around the site.​

This is a product that was built for purpose, so it does not lack any of the features required to help stay safe and clean on site. The ScrubKart has a durable, wipe-clean and weather resistant surface. It even features a foot pump operated stainless steel sink and tap and a hands-free swing bin, meaning that contact and transmission of germs through hands is minimised at every opportunity possible.

Keep construction workers safe with the mobile, built to last, warm water hand washing facility: Armorgard ScrubKart.

Comes as standard:

• 1 x soap dispenser
• 1 x paper towel dispenser
• Stainless steel sink and tap
• 2 x 25L tanks (colour coded for clean and waste water)
• 1 x hands-free swing bin
• Relevant signage
• Water heater included for SBK1T and SBK2T​​

Patent pending - application number - 2006552.0

Armorgard is still open for business! If you’re interested, call us on 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk. We’re also happy to video chat!

Take a picture and share all your creations with us using the hashtag #ArnieGardAndFriends on social media or email them to marketing@armorgard.co.uk - your creation could be featured on our social media channels!

Week 1 - Colouring sheet​

Meet Arnie Gard. Print this off, help him colour in the sheet and fill in his Armorgard box with your favourite things! #ArnieGardAndFriends

Week 2 - maze

Help Arnie store his tools by completing the maze. Colour in the sheet when you’re done! #ArnieGardAndFriends

Week 3 - Spot the difference

Say hi to Arnie’s friend, Amy. Can you spot the 10 differences in this picture? After that, colour this in! #ArnieGardAndFriends

Week 4 - Word search

We have hidden 12 words in this word search. Can you find them all? #ArnieGardAndFriends

We can’t wait to see your creations… Have fun! #ArnieGardAndFriends

Armorgard donated an OxBox to this project, one of our secure storage boxes, to help with contact-free collection of the face visors, allowing the volunteers to continue their work and deliver the visors to our frontline key workers who need them.

We caught up with Toby Hurst, director at Concrete Carrot to find out more about this commendable project.

• What inspired this project?

Initially, when we went into lockdown and furloughed our staff, I noticed that a friend on Facebook was 3D printing face visors for NHS/Social Care staff. We have a 3D printer at work, so I brought it home and started printing visors. At first, I was producing 1 every hour and a quarter - it was a nice little project but it was frustratingly slow.

In our workshop, we have a CNC machine. After spending a day or so adapting the design, I was able to produce 100 an hour which was quite exciting! In the meantime, through the power of social media, we had plenty of materials donated to us to get us properly up and running!

• Tell us a little more about Face Visors For Heroes.

Myself and my employees are all involved in Face Visors For Heroes. They are currently on furlough leave, so they are kindly volunteering to help with the cause.

There are approximately 15 of us at present who are both packaging and delivering the visors. We have produced approximately 3,000 face visors so far and have had visor requests from local hospital wards, care homes, pharmacies, GP surgeries and even an airport.

• How has the project changed since you got the OxBox?

From the moment I started getting more people involved, it was a key point for me that there was as little contact as possible between team members.

It was easy for us to manufacture them and package them in isolation, but delivery posed an issue. Anyone wanting to help out would have had to physically pick them up from our workplace by arranging to be there or wait around so that the visor packs could be handed over.

With the Armorgard OxBox and a combination padlock (which gets wiped regularly!), we've been able to secure the visor packs, message the delivery volunteer to pick up with as little human contact as possible and at their convenience!

• Has the OxBox been working well for this project?

Yes! Definitely! 

We are thrilled to have been able to help take this project further and ensure that the volunteers are keeping safe and socially distanced.

It’s a difficult time for all of us, but it is heart-warming to hear selfless stories and truly brilliant acts of kindness from one another. We would like to thank Toby Hurst and the Concrete Carrot team for their amazing work, as well as the essential key workers who are keeping the country running.

It’s been an honour to be able to support the work done by Face Visors For Heroes.

#FaceVisorsForHeroes

Facebook Group – Face Visors For Heroes https://bit.ly/3ejXAI3 

Just Giving Page – https://bit.ly/2Ryqp9M 

Facebook Fundraiser Page – https://bit.ly/2xpJsfB

The Armorgard OxBox - https://www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/oxbox

We are on a mission to make workplaces safer for individuals and ensure that they aren’t put at risk whilst working. We’ve picked out our top product ranges that were designed to enhance your safety, both in general and against the outbreak.

• Let’s battle the virus - keep your hands clean and sanitised. #staysafe #stayclean

The Armorgard SaniStation is a unique solution for the immediate deployment of a central hand sanitising unit. It’s two sided to promote segregation, has a weather proof, wipe clean, durable surface and comes complete with pump dispensers, 5L of sanitiser and relevant safety signage. 

Explore our SaniStation family.

• Stay safe at work by ensuring restricted areas are cordoned off and social distancing guidelines are adhered to.

The Armorgard InstaGate is quick to deploy, strong, yet lightweight, weatherproof and distinctive. It even comes fitted with braked wheels for easy transportation and positioning.

Available at 4ft or 6ft high, this unique barrier extends to 2 metres long and with the unique latching system multiple InstaGates can be connected together, to create any length required - just like the image below!

Star feature - when the barrier retracts, there’s no need to worry about trapping fingers as the design just won’t allow it!

• Improve safety and efficiency, reduce noise and protect health. 

The Armorgard CuttingStation Xtract does so much more than you think, it is your best practice solution for cutting on site. 

It's not only a station for cutting at a safe working height, but it’s sound deadening foam lining helps to reduce noise pollution, and rubber mat surface protects against HAVS. 

When used with the Husqvarna A1000 air scrubber, the unit filters 1,000 cubic meters of air per hour, protecting the operator, and others working in the immediate area, from exposure to long-term health risks. 

It's the ultimate protection for your workers. 

• How many people does it take to transport large sheet materials? What manual handling difficulties does it cause? 

The Armorgard LoadAll range has been designed to ease manual handling when transporting large sheets of material. As a result, it also reduces the need for more people than necessary to do the job - supporting social distancing guidelines. 

The LA750-PRO is the newest member of our LoadAll family. With clamps to hold materials in place when moving, a telescopic handle, featuring an anti-finger trapping design, to maneuver loads easily, and a H-frame design to navigate through doorways, it’s our most innovative board trolley yet!

• Our Armorgard COSHH compliant range ensures that hazardous substances are stored both securely and safely whilst on site or in transit.

The bright colours of our FlamBank and ChemBank range allows clear separation of flammable materials (FlamBanks) and chemicals (ChemBanks). 

Are you storing alcohol based cleaning materials and sanitisers? Be COSHH compliant and store safely. 

Browse more of our COSHH compliant range here.​

• You know all about the Armorgard TuffBanks’ security features. But did you know about our safety elements?

The hydraulic gas struts help to raise the lid when opening your TuffBank and now coupled with our unique SlamStop system, it gives the user a much safer experience; preventing the lid from unexpectedly closing, making sure that fingers don’t get trapped.

This feature is exclusive to Armorgard.​​

During this difficult period, staying safe is crucial and we are working hard to develop our products to ensure that safety can be put first during these testing times.

We hope everyone stays safe.

If you’re interested in any of our products or have an enquiry, please contact us: 023 9238 0280 or sales@armorgard.co.uk. We’re also happy to video chat!

Keep in touch with us on social media for the latest!

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/armorgard-ltd 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArmorgardLtd/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ArmorgardLtd

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armorgard/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/ArmorgardUK

We would also like to acknowledge the hard work and efforts of every single person who has helped in the build and set up of the NHS Nightingale Hospitals across the country.

The team at Armorgard are privileged to have supported the build of the NHS Nightingale Hospital London, which opened on 3rd April 2020 with the potential capacity of holding 4,000 patients. The London ExCeL exhibition centre was transformed in just 9 days. It was with the help of the hundreds of contractors, military personnel, medical staff and the thousands of individuals that this was all made possible.

• Forma-Stor (FR400-T)

Two of the Armorgard Forma-Stor ​units are being used side by side in the NHS Nightingale Hospital, to safely and securely house pharmaceuticals and medication. The Armorgard Forma-Stor is police approved for the storage of controlled drugs.

The Forma-Stor comes flat-packed, with the option of being pre-built, making transportation quick and easy to fit through entrances and indoor spaces. There is a strong, fitted OSB board floor, as well as 5-lever deadlocks and jemmy-proof joins, keeping the container strong and secure - vital in contexts like these. To help with organisation and ease of storing goods, the Forma-Stor is being used with the optional extras available - shelving and lighting fitted.

Additionally, the Forma-Stor has also been supplied for contractors during the build of the hospital, helping keep their tools and equipment safe and secure.

• Gorilla Gas Cage (GGC6)

The Nightingale Hospital are using 8 Armorgard Gorilla Gas Cages just outside of the hospital to safely segregate clean, dirty, full and empty oxygen cylinders for the hospital ventilators - which is critical support equipment.

These security cages are suitable for outside use, as they are galvanised to resist weather conditions for maximum durability. Although they can be quickly dismantled and stored as individual panels, the Gorilla Gas Cages are a unique, modular bolt-together design with a padlock point for security. They also have the facility to be fixed to the ground for further security.​

• LoadAll (LA1000 and LA750-PRO)

The Armorgard LoadAll board trolleys were used as part of the transformation project from the ExCeL centre to NHS Nightingale. These robust and space-saving board trolleys helped with transporting plasterboard and other large sheet materials around the site quickly and safely, requiring minimal manpower. 

The LA1000 is certified to carry a load of 1 tonne and the LA750-PRO has the capacity to carry 750 kilos, easing manual handling and allowing more to be transported at once. These trolleys helped a considerable amount as their H-frame is designed to manoeuvre through doorways and other narrow spaces.

Once again, thank you to all the key workers for your truly commendable and admirable efforts during this period. We would like to express our deepest sympathies to anyone who has been directly affected by the illness.

From the Armorgard team, we urge the general public to follow the government advice - stay home, save lives and protect the NHS. Take care and stay safe.

Armorgard is still open for business - we continue to have stock ready for next day delivery and we are happy to communicate via video chat, phone or email. The team are working from home where possible, and those in our head office have been adhering to government guidelines at all times.

Keep up to date with the latest on our social media channels:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/armorgard-ltd 

Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/ArmorgardLtd/ 

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ArmorgardLtd 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armorgard/ 

Like many of you, I am sure, we are closely monitoring the available information regarding the Novel Coronavirus COVID-19.

It is at unprecedented times like these, that the safety and well-being of all our customers and staff is of paramount importance.

Whilst adhering to government guidelines we are working vigorously to ensure that there is minimum interruption to our service.

We are fortunate to be able to remain open for ‘business as usual’, ensuring that we are able to support you with your existing orders and future needs.  

We hope everyone stays safe during this period of time and that we are supporting one another.

Thank you,

The Armorgard Team

WWT was set up in 1998, with the vision that the construction industry needed to do more to improve its health and safety performance – particularly among smaller businesses.

The Stay Healthy For Life event was one of the Safety and Health Awareness Days organised by WWT. The Armorgard CuttingStation Xtract was used as an example of best practice when working with materials that produce dust when cut.

Regularly breathing in dust, caused by cutting or grinding construction materials, can cause life-changing lung diseases. Over 500 construction workers die from exposure to silica dust every single year and workers can still breathe in harmful levels of dust when working outside.

The SS7X is a multi-purpose cutting platform, allowing workers to cut safely at working height whilst the extraction system helps to contain dust, reducing exposure to harmful substances.

When partnered with the Husqvarna A1000 air scrubber, the SS7X can filter 1,000 cubic meters of air per hour, reducing exposure to the operator and others working in the immediate area. The CuttingStation Xtract includes safety features such as rubber matting, noise-cancelling foam, PVC screens to contain sparks and is also fire-rated.​

Thank you to Derry Building Services for educating the next generation on best practice when working with dust and highlighting the safe products available - helping them stay healthy for life.​

Contact our team of experts on 023 9238 0280 or sales@armorgard.co.uk for more information on any of our products, or if you are interested in a demo of our products.

More about WWT can be found here.

Explore the Armorgard CuttingStation range.

Three things about Armorgard that you may not know:

• Armorgard manufactures more than just site boxes!

With a range of over 300 products, the Armorgard range varies from board trolleys to cutting stations. Although our site boxes are world class, some visitors to our stand seemed to not realise the extent of our range. All products are available to hire, visit our website for access to the full range. Let’s help make workplaces safer, more secure and increase productivity.

• The LoadAll board trolley LA750-PRO is truly unique...

When we demonstrated the LA750-PRO to those who visited our stand, many were surprised at how clever the board trolley is. With adjustable clamps to secure large sheet materials and a telescopic handle for safer and easier manual handling, it is clear why the R&D team at Armorgard had upgraded the LoadAll range. The LA750-PRO’s ‘H’ frame and swivel wheels make manoeuvring through doorways and overall handling much easier, as seen by many who visited our stand.

• Safety is a key element of the CuttingStation with extractor unit

It’s a known fact that our original CuttingStation (SS7) helps with productivity (ease of cutting materials) and safety (cutting at working height, minimising HAVs and reducing noise pollution).

The Armorgard CuttingStation with extractor unit (SS7X) was designed specifically for cutting materials that may produce dust or other fine particles. Filtering 1,000 cubic meters of air per hour when used with the Husqvarna A1000 air scrubber, the SS7X enhances the safety of workers by reducing exposure to dust and the risk of long-term health respiratory problems. Those who visited our stand at the Executive Hire Show were shown all the benefits of the SS7X.

The products we took this year were: the TuffBank, InstaGate, FittingStor, Rubble Truck, BarroBox, Forma-Stor, CuttingStation with extraction unit, LoadAll board trolley (LA750-PRO) and our latest addition to the range, the PowerStation with 10 compartments.

Don’t worry if you missed us this time. Call us on 023 9238 0280 if you would like a visit from a member of our team or to take a closer look at any of our products.

In the morning, we boarded an Elizabethan paddle steamer on the River Thames beside Tower Bridge. To start with, we reflected on some of our best moments in 2019 - all the way from our most memorable to our most embarrassing ones. We then discussed our three year strategy and each department presented their 2020 plan to the team. We also looked at how we will achieve our vision and mission. The team then cruised down the River Thames, enjoying spectacular views of The Shard and London Eye on the way.

Following the boat trip, we headed up to 30 St Mary Axe (also famously known as The Gherkin tower!) to enjoy lunch with a stunning view from level 38. The day was finished off by a couple of team building games amidst the London skyline.

We are all very happy to have welcomed in the new year on a high (literally!) and are extremely excited to implement our strategy for 2020 and beyond. Thank you to everyone who was involved with Armorgard in 2019 and we can’t wait to work with you all in 2020!

1. Do not leave your vehicle to defrost alone with your tools in

It’s tempting to leave the key in your vehicle’s ignition and your engine running whilst you wait for it to defrost. However, vehicles (and their tools) are stolen from driveways every year when they’ve been left alone to warm up. Instead, stay with your vehicle during this process and use de-icer spray and a scraper if you’re in a rush. Don’t make it easy for thieves!

2. Deter thieves by mentioning the security of your tools

If thieves know that they will have a hard time breaking in to a site or van, they won’t be as determined. Adding some stickers that mention the security of your tools can be successful. Armorgard offer great stickers that say “My tools deserve Armorgard” - deterring thieves before they even start thinking about breaking in!

3. Use the most secure form of storage for your equipment

Keep your equipment safely locked away in strong, secure, purpose built vehicle and site boxes. The Armorgard TuffBank comes in 8 different sizes and is the only storage solution of its kind in the UK to be Sold Secure and Secured by Design (SBD), the official police preferred specification.

Enhance security further by choosing to secure your tools in the toughest storage box in the Armorgard range. Our StrongBank is made using 3mm and 5mm steel - our virtually indestructible box deters even the most determined thief.

4. Keep your office and tools nearby

Whilst working on site, keep your tools and valuable equipment nearby. Our SiteStation is the perfect on-site companion. Store equipment, plans and maps securely inside the lockable compartments, right next to where you need to work. Our brand new design also comes with lights as standard and rubber seals for improved weatherproofing - ready for those winter months!

5. Use products that offer strong protection against the environment

Keep your equipment securely stored in products that are durable and can survive the winter months. The R&D team at Armorgard pride themselves on the durability of products, with weatherproofing being a focus. The fully galvanised coating on the Forma-Stor makes the walk-in storage unit extra tough and resistant to rain. Another example can be seen in the InstructaHut, which sheds water to ensure that documents and equipment are protected.

Keep your livelihood and your equipment safe this winter with Armorgard.

Call 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk to find more information about any of our products.

Now with a bigger 10 compartment option, our PowerStation range includes the PWS6 with 6 compartments and our latest launch, the PWS10 for securely charging more electrical devices at once.

When contractors are working with electrical equipment or power tools, it is important to keep equipment fully powered up and reliable. The PowerStation provides a secure space for contractors to charge their tools together, or in separate compartments. It is the ideal choice for storing and leaving your equipment charging whilst other jobs get completed.

Did you know that power tools and mobile devices are most vulnerable to theft when they are seen charging together with batteries on site? The Armorgard PowerStation’s all-steel construction with cam locks on every compartment keeps the charging devices safe, so that contractors can worry less about their equipment getting stolen whilst locked away.

Each compartment is spacious with double sockets for maximum efficiency when charging up items. Now with 230v RCD protected plugs, fire risk is minimised so that not only your tools will be kept safe, but you will be too.

The perforated locker doors help to prevent overheating, ensure good ventilation and allow equipment to remain visible. All PowerStations are finished with an antibacterial, epoxy powder coat for extra durability.

Watch the new PowerStation in action here.

If you are interested in powering up your electrical equipment safely and securely on site, call our team on 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk and ask for the brand new PWS10.

Orders placed between 15:00 on the 20th December and 15:00 on the 6th of January will be dispatched on the 6th of January for delivery on the 7th of January.

1. LA750-PRO

The manual handling of plasterboard and other large sheet materials can be made easier with our newest LoadAll model - the LA750-PRO. A unique H-framed board trolley with heavy duty castors and swivel wheels that’s designed to easily transport and manoeuvre large sheets around site and through doorways. The clamping system prevents boards from moving or falling and the telescopic handle with anti-finger trapping ensures safer manual handling. An essential product for all dry-liners!

2. CuttingStation Xtract - SS7X

Being exposed to plasterboard dust can lead to inhalation of hazardous substances. This could lead to further health problems including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Armorgard CuttingStation with H-class filtration extractor unit is fast becoming an essential best practice health & safety measure. Filtering 1,000 cubic meters of air per hour when used with the Husqvarna A1000 air scrubber, the SS7X rapidly reduces exposure of the operator, and others working in the immediate area, to long-term health respiratory risks when cutting plasterboard and other materials.

3. PipeRack

The PipeRack is another product designed to store and transport dry-lining materials efficiently. This product increases productivity with a 1 or 2 tonne storage capacity and ultra-robust industrial swivel castors, making transporting pipes quick, easy and safe. Brilliant for dry-liners who need to keep materials organised and stored in a stable, manoeuvrable trolley.

4. TuffBank - TB2

Our TuffBank range is the perfect secure storage box for tools and equipment. With the Sold Secure and Secured by Design accreditation, anti-jemmy features and 2 x 5-lever deadlocks you can confidently lock your equipment away knowing that they will be kept safe.  From mud pans and jointing knives to drywall hammers, this solution is ideal for use on site or in vans.

5. TuffBank - TBC4

Another popular size from our tuffbank range is the TBC4. A slightly taller, larger chest designed with sites and workshops in mind. The TBC4’s size allows for storage of larger items such as drywall primers, skimming blades and corner applicators.

The TBC4, like all other TuffBanks, enjoys a heavy-duty robust construction, including keyed alike 5-lever deadlocks. There is also the option for heavy duty castors and crane lifting eyes to be fitted, alongside the forklift skids as standard, offering ease of mobility around site. Also available as an optional feature is an innovative PowerShelf to turn your TuffBank into a secure charging station for your dry-lining tools.

These were our top 5 picks for Armorgard products that are perfect for improving dry-lining efficiency. Our products are focused on increasing productivity, safety and security.

Why not try for yourself? Call our team on 023 9238 0280 or email sales@armorgard.co.uk for more information about any of our products.

A central hub on site

Our SiteStation is perfect for storing information, plans and maps on site. It can be used as a meeting point, central hub and a secure place to store equipment whilst working. Now with even more options for organising information, our newly fitted shelves and compartments allow managers to access their documents immediately with ease.

Mobile

Now with castors fitted as standard, this station offers a range of mobility benefits. It can be placed anywhere on site and then safely and easily moved to its next location whenever needed. The crane lifting eyes, also fitted as standard on every new SiteStation, add yet another option for transporting across any distance or height! This feature reduces time and resource needed for transportation, and its easy manoeuvrability offers great worker efficiency. The SiteStation can be in the right place at the right time. 

Power and light supply

Our new model comes with two 110V charging sockets so that electrical tools and portable devices can be locked up and charged securely whilst on site. Additionally, the SiteStation now comes with LED lighting so that managers can inspect site plans and maps even during poor visibility conditions.

Even more secure and robust

We enhanced the SiteStation’s strength. Now with chamfered edges, we have increased rigidity whilst sporting an updated, more modern design. The product also includes three 5-lever, keyed alike deadlocks for added security. 

Stronger protection from the elements

Designed to work well outdoors, our SiteStation now features rubber gaskets on the doors ensuring a watertight seal and therefore increased weather resistance. The powder coating also enhances its durability.

Want to be one of the first to experience our brand new SiteStation?

Call our team on 023 9238 0280 and ask for the brand new SS2. 

Pour la deuxième édition consécutive, Armorgard participera au salon Batimat qui se tiendra, du 4 au 8 novembre prochains, au parc des expositions de Villepinte, au nord de Paris.

Cette année, Batimat fête ses soixante ans ! Ce rendez-vous incontournable est, depuis des décennies, l’opportunité pour les professionnels du bâtiment de se retrouver, échanger, découvrir les innovations majeures du secteur de la construction, s’informer des évolutions technologiques et réglementaires. Cette édition sera l’opportunité de revenir sur soixante ans d’innovations qui ont transformé le bâtiment et sur les nombreuses nouvelles perspectives qui s’ouvrent aujourd’hui. Toutes les informations sur www.batimat.com

Quel chemin parcouru pour Armorgard depuis sa première participation il y a deux ans. En novembre 2017, l’industriel britannique, spécialisé dans les solutions pour la sécurité et l’efficacité sur les chantiers, venait présenter des produits devenus depuis incontournables outre-Manche. Tout était à faire pour démarrer une aventure similaire en France : créer une équipe, identifier les intervenants et comprendre leurs attentes, définir une gamme de produits et constituer un réseau de distribution. C’est chose faite ! Armorgard bénéficie aujourd’hui d’une équipe dédiée dirigée par Abinoham Pantel, et la gamme n’a cessé de s’étoffer, avec aujourd’hui plus de trente solutions réparties en quatre catégories : stockage des outils et du matériel, stations de travail mobiles, équipements de manutention manuelle et stockage de produits dangereux. Le réseau de distribution est en place et les produits Armorgard sont maintenant disponibles chez de nombreux partenaires distributeurs partout en France. Dernière pierre à l’édifice, Armorgard s’est doté d’un entrepôt de stockage dans la région de Valence afin d’offrir une plus grande flexibilité au niveau des livraisons.

Venez rencontrer Armorgard sur le Stand Z 43, Hall 5B

Venez retrouver Armorgard du lundi au vendredi à partir de 9 heures le matin sur le stand Z 43, dans le Hall 5B dédié à l’outillage et au matériel de chantier. De nombreuses solutions seront exposées et vous aurez la possibilité d’assister à des démonstrations afin de découvrir les différents avantages de chacun des équipements.

Les incontournables coffres de rangement sécurisé TuffBank et la station de découpe CuttingStation seront de la partie, tout comme des innovations plus récentes comme la barrière de foule InstaGate et l’unité mobile HydroHut. Nous vous réservons d’autres surprises, dont la présentation de prototypes de solutions en cours de développement. 

Que vous soyez utilisateur ou distributeur, partenaire existant ou simplement curieux de faire notre connaissance, venez nous rencontrer sur le stand afin d’échanger et de nous faire part de vos besoins. Vous passerez un agréable moment de détente en notre compagnie pour vous restaurer et vous désaltérer. Nous vous réservons également d’autres surprises.

Afin de vous assurer notre meilleure disponibilité, nous vous proposons de vous inscrire pour que nous puissions vous offrir une invitation et vous recevoir dans les meilleures conditions.

À très vite ! 

Chaque année, les Trophées de la Construction, coorganisés par Batiactu et la SMABTP, récompensent des équipements, réalisations et initiatives exemplaires dans le secteur du Bâtiment. Leur vocation est de valoriser la force d’innovation et le dynamisme des acteurs du secteur. Pour cette 18^eédition, vingt-trois lauréats ont été distingués parmi quelque cent cinquante projets.

Le mardi 10 septembre 2019, Abinoham Pantel, directeur d’Armorgard France, et Reuben Mitchell, directeur commercial UK, ont reçu un trophée pour la station de découpe CuttingStation, lauréate dans la catégorie « Solutions techniques d’industriels – équipements et outillages innovants », lors de la cérémonie qui s’est déroulée au siège de la SMABTP. Le jury a particulièrement apprécié la dimension mobile de l’équipement et son ingéniosité.

CuttingStation est un poste de découpe mobile spécialement conçu pour optimiser et sécuriser le travail de découpe sur les chantiers. Il s’agit d’un poste de travail complet intégrant une table de sciage adaptée à la découpe de grandes pièces telles que des profilés, des bastaings, des chemins de câbles ou encore des tuyaux.

Cette station de travail est dotée de nombreux équipements de protection qui sont  le fruit d’un développement poussé prenant en compte l’observation des utilisateurs sur les chantiers. Chaque élément de la CuttingStation a été imaginé pour offrir des conditions de travail optimales, confortables et sécurisées. 

CuttingStation est un des best-sellers de la gamme française et est utilisée sur de nombreux chantiers du bâtimentparticulièrement concernés par les problématiques d’optimisation des conditions de travail, de gain de temps et de protection contre les vols sur chantier.

Les  Trophées de la Construction 

Les Trophées de la Construction sont coorganisés par Batiactu (le média de référence des professionnels de la construction, de l’architecture et de l’immobilier) et la SMABTP (qui assure, en France, plus de 200 000 clients et sociétaires du secteur du Bâtiment et des Travaux publics) en partenariat avec les principales associations, organisations et fédérations représentatives de l’ensemble de la filière construction. L’expertise des Trophées de la Construction, leur qualité, leur innovation et leur longévité en font un rendez-vous incontournable pour les professionnels de la construction, du bâtiment et de l’immobilier. Recevoir un Trophée de la Construction, c’est recevoir la reconnaissance de ses pairs et ainsi valoriser ses métiers et promouvoir ses équipes. Parrainés par les ministères concernés, les Trophées sont remis par un jury d’experts reconnus, représentant l’ensemble de la filière BTP, construction, architecture et immobilier.

Armorgard, a designer and manufacturer of workstations, storage and materials handling solutions for industry, has announced today that its CuttingStation SS7 product won a technical solutions award in the equipment and tools category of the 2019 French Construction Trophies, co-organised by Batiactu and SMABTP.

The awards, now in their 18th year, honour innovation and excellence in products that contribute to the efficient and profitable operations and management of institutional and commercial buildings in France.

Judges at this year’s Construction Trophies, held in Paris this week, praised the “portable dimension” and “ingenuity” of the CuttingStation SS7, which has revolutionised on-site cutting, reducing exposure to noise and dust, and eliminating any requirement to provide a separate cutting area on site.

“Providing a safe environment to cut lengths of steel or timber close to where the work is remains a logistical and safety challenge for construction companies, with many contractors still resorting to improvised solutions.” said Abinoham Pantel, our country manager for Armorgard France.

“The CuttingStation SS7 ticks many boxes for efficiency, productivity and safety, including reducing workers' exposure to dust and noise, reducing hand-arm-vibration, reducing risk of back injury; and reducing risk of injury caused by cutting and manual handling.

“We’re honoured to be recognised for the unique value our product brings to construction firms, hire companies and contractors alike.”

Vincent Gadonneix, CEO of Batiactu Groupe, a leading digital resource for the construction industry, said: "Batiactu is very proud to organise these Trophies for 18 years now: every year, it is an honour to highlight these innovative achievements and through them, all those who make today the building industry."

Didier Ridoret, president of construction insurance specialist SMABTP, said: "This 18th edition of the Construction Awards is a perfect illustration of the dynamism and expertise of the construction industry. Once again, it allows all construction professionals to be valued by highlighting their know-how, their ability to innovate, to integrate sustainable and natural constructive modes, to respond to the challenges of their time.'

Investors in People (IIP) est un référentiel international, d’origine britannique, d’optimisation de la performance par le renforcement des compétences et de la motivation du personnel. La norme s’appuie sur le cadre « Investors in People », qui reflète les dernières tendances en matière d’organisation du travail, les compétences essentielles et les structures efficaces nécessaires pour surperformer.

Aujourd’hui, près de quarante-six mille entreprises sont certifiées dans le monde. Investors in People permet ainsi aux organisations de se comparer aux meilleures entreprises de leur secteur à l’échelle internationale.

La philosophie Investors in People

Améliorer les compétences, développer la motivation des équipes, favoriser la communication interne et donc améliorer l’image de l’entreprise, accroître la productivité et augmenter la satisfaction client !

Investors in People est basé sur quatre principes :

1. Engagement. La direction s’engage véritablement à développer une politique des ressources humaines en faveur du personnel pour accroître la performance de l’organisme.
2. Planification.L’organisation définit avec précision sa stratégie, ses objectifs et tout ce que son personnel doit mettre en œuvre pour les atteindre.
3. Action. L’organisation développe des actions destinées à améliorer les compétences, l’implication et la motivation du personnel.
4. Evaluation. L’organisation évalue les coûts et les bénéfices globaux des actions exercées en faveur de son personnel.

Armorgard s’attache depuis toujours à développer une culture durable et performante afin de créer des produits qui résolvent les problèmes de sécurité et d’efficacité sur les chantiers. Cette philosophie a vu le jour il y a trente ans, lorsque Armorgard a constitué une équipe pour concevoir, fabriquer et commercialiser ses produits. Le chemin se poursuit et cet événement marquant témoigne de la volonté claire d’Armorgard de motiver ses employés.

Emma Phillips, responsable des ressources humaines, explique que l’accréditation « Investors in People » Platinum n’est actuellement détenue que par 1 % des organisations accréditées par l’IIP. Terry Mitchell, directeur général d’Armorgard, ajoute : « Il s’agit du plus haut niveau d’Investors in People et ainsi de la reconnaissance de l’approche d’Armorgard en matière de leadership, de soutien et de gestion de ses collaborateurs. »

As a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative site storage, manual handling and work units, Armorgard has a focus on developing a sustainable high-performing culture to create products that solve critical security, logistics and health and safety challenges.

The IIP Platinum accreditation is currently held by only 1% of IIP accredited organisations.

Terry Mitchell, Managing Director at Armorgard, said: ““This is the highest level of Investors in People, and a remarkable recognition of Armorgard's difference to lead, support and manage its people to achieve meaningful results.

"It is a journey that started 30 years ago, when Armorgard first put a team together to design, manufacture and market products. This journey continues and the specific milestone proves Armorgard's clear commitment to engaging, developing and motivating employees. 

Investors in People is the international standard for people management, defining what it takes to lead, support and manage people effectively to achieve sustainable results. Underpinning the Standard is the Investors in People framework, reflecting the latest workplace trends, essential skills and effective structures required to outperform in any industry. Investors in People enables organisations to benchmark against the best in the business on an international scale.

Commenting on the award, Emma Phillips, Armorgard's Head of People & Culture said: “This is a fantastic achievement as only 1% of audited companies are awarded the Platinum standard. For us to have accomplished this on our first audit represents our commitment to developing our people.”

Armorgard currently has 41 employees at its UK headquarters in Fareham, Hampshire.

The TuffBank TB2 and TB3 site boxes and TBC4 and TBC5 site chests - the only storage solution of their kind in the UK to have Secured by Design (SBD), the official police preferred specification.

We have introduced these specially designed heavy duty, high security site boxes and chests to combat rising theft from construction sites - more than half of builders in the UK have been victims of theft, with tools and equipment being stolen direct from construction sites.

The TuffBank TB2 and TB3 site boxes and TBC4 and TBC5 site chests have anti-jemmy features and additional internal reinforcements that make locks almost impenetrable. These formidable four were given the SBD seal of approval following rigorous testing.

The new SBD police preferred spec TuffBank adds a new slam stop lid stay that enhances user safety, inset handles for a streamlined finish and a cable passing point for charging without compromising security.

In addition, we have introduced the PowerShelf to instantly transform TuffBank into a secure power source. This innovative optional extra includes four 110v sockets and four USB ports. Also available are crane lifting eyes and robust castors to allow for easy movement.

TuffBank TB2 TB3 site boxes and TBC4 TBC5 site chests with SBD specification are available in tool and equipment hire shops throughout the UK.

Want to find out more? Call us on 023 9238 0280

With a van being broken into every 23 minutes, tool theft in the UK is rife. It’s time to make your van safe; throw out DIY van security and reward yourself and your tools with purpose built, tested and certified, secure storage.

Step 1 - take your storage seriously

The harder your tools are to get to, the better. Creating a van vault is one thing, but securing tools in a purpose-built security storage box within your van is an added deterrent. Invest wisely in your storage as it will be protecting your livelihood.

Step 2 - be discrete

Help yourself by keeping your tools out of clear sight. Some tools are colourful and easily noticed, so refrain from leaving your tools on show or unsecured.

Step 3 - park for prevention

When you are leaving your van unattended, park smart. Use your surroundings as an added protection, parking sliding doors or rear opening doors against walls or thick bushes makes it harder for thieves to gain access. Be the hardest van to break into.

Step 4 - make your mark

Marking your tools with something distinctive makes them personal to you and therefore easily identifiable if they were to be stolen. This will also make your tools harder to sell on.

Step 5 - check your insurance

If worst comes to the worst and your tools are stolen, it is best to be prepared. Make it easy in the long run by keeping a list of every tool you own complete with photos and serial numbers and ensure they are all covered by your insurance policy.

With our van security top tips we hope to help protect you from tool theft.

If you need any further advice on secure storage contact us today:

Call 02392380280

Email sales@armorgard.co.uk

Download our guide to preventing tool theft here.

Dans le cadre de son obligation d’assurer la protection de la santé et de la sécurité de ses employés, l’employeur est tenu de protéger ses salariés des risques liés aux températures élevées et aux rayons ultraviolets. Le BTP, plus exposé que d’autres secteurs, fait l’objet d’une réglementation spécifique.  

En matière de prévention, l’employeur doit anticiper les risques liés aux conditions climatiques. Ainsi, il doit consigner dans le document unique le risque « fortes chaleurs » et bâtir un plan d’action de prévention qu’il doit également partager avec le CHSCT en cas d’épisode caniculaire. 

Pour le travail en extérieur, lorsque cela est possible, l’employeur doit prévoir des zones d’ombre ou des aires climatisées. Pour les locaux fermés, il doit vérifier l’état de la ventilation et sa conformité à la réglementation.

Il existe, en outre, quelques obligations qui sont bien propres au secteur du BTP. La Fédération française du bâtiment(FFB), le ministère de la Cohésion des territoires et des Relations avec les collectivités territoriales, ainsi que l’Organisme professionnel de prévention du bâtiment et des travaux publics (OPPBTP) rappellent régulièrement les règles de bon sens pour garantir la sécurité des collaborateurs :

– Les conditions météorologiques doivent être étudiées au jour le jour afin de pouvoir évaluer les risques et d’adapter le dispositif de prévention. Dès que la température atteint ou dépasse les 30 °C, la vigilance devient impérative.

– L’hydratation des employés est primordiale. Une des mesures phares est donc d’assurer un approvisionnement en eau fraîche du chantier. L’employeur est tenu de fournir trois litres d’eau par jour à chaque salarié. À ce sujet, Armorgard propose HydroHut, une unité de stockage mobile qui accueille des fontaines à eau rafraîchissantes et des équipements de premiers secours.

– Il est également recommandé aux entreprises de décaler les horaires de travail de leurs salariés afin qu’ils effectuent les tâches les plus lourdes et pénibles aux heures les moins chaudes de la journée. 

– Si les conditions s’avèrent dangereuses (en cas de vent violent ou d’orage, par exemple), des aménagements ou abris doivent être prévus pour que les ouvriers puissent se mettre en sécurité.

Across the 19th and 20th June we were out in full-force showcasing some of our top products including; FormaStor, Instagate, Barricade, Chembank, Flambank, Powerstation, Strimmersafe Rack and a GritKart.

There was an excellent footfall across both days with our products sparking interest from both trackside rail workers and health and safety directors. 

One of the common topics at the event seemed to be the concern over theft of unsecured materials, in particular copper. This is where our FormaStor and TuffBank took centre stage, highlighting their market leading safety and security features geared towards theft prevention. One gentleman commented that he was very happy with the product quality; it is stronger than he thought it would be. 

More Armorgard products took to the stage as some familiar faces popped by the stand to pass on their positive feedback about a PipeRack they had purchased and how this product alone had increased productivity with their store workers as it had reduced their material manoeuvering time.

Our business development executive Jasmin Walsh commented; “This was our first time at Rail Live and I found the event very innovative. The attendees had a high level of interest in moving the rail industry forwards; driving productivity and reducing delays and stoppages. The quality and quantity of the visitors to our stand was great and we would love to exhibit again next year!”

Are you looking for trackside and depot product solutions? Contact our rail specialist Jasmin Walsh on 023 9238 0280 or sales@armorgard.co.uk

Construction site set up is always challenging: a multifaceted job that needs to run smoothly to keep timelines and budgets on track.

Whether you are a project manager running and managing a small job, or a subcontractor working at a large site controlled by someone else, checking that working conditions are healthy and safe before work begins and ensuring that the proposed work is not going to put others at risk requires planning and organisation.

And like any successful action plan, a list of essentials is required.

That’s why we created our site set up range including; work platforms and units, tool storage solutions, manual handling products and hazardous goods storage. All designed and selected to meet your quality, safety and standards compliance needs, increase productivity, and boost workmanship and reputation.

It’s how we can help your next project to run smoothly.

Information to display

There's information that needs to be displayed on site, right from the start of your construction project. Get it right from day one with InstructaHut, an all-in-one noticeboard, meeting point and emergency station for first-aid, H&S and fire equipment.

InstructaHut could be described as a hybrid of RAMS, first-aid and fire-safety board. Our aim was to create an information board that would be recognised by its shape and colour, to instinctively remind anybody on site of H&S instructions and responsibilities.

Smart and professional, it stands out on site and helps contractors to remain compliant while keeping sites safe. The durable and easy-to-clean base is perfect for even the toughest environments; the double-sided board, which can be vinyl wrapped in various colours for different solutions, offers great usage flexibility.

Store the liquids safely

Storing hazardous chemicals and flammables on site is made easy with our range of COSHH storage solutions. As well as exposing individuals to possible risk, failure to comply with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations is an offence under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

The ultra-tough, lockable FlamBank ensures that your hazardous substances are safely and securely protected 24/7. Available in seven sizes, the FlamBank is ideal for use on construction sites.

The COSHH compliant Armorgard DrumBank range, meanwhile, is specially designed to safely store a range of containers, such as 50 gallon drums, jerry cans, & IBC containers. Highly robust, the enclosed versions are fitted with heavy-duty doors and 5-lever deadlocks to protect your high value fuel and oil from theft and fire. 

Organise and secure tools and equipment

Introducing designated tool and equipment storage areas, materials handling solutions and work units in strategic places around the site can reduce distances that workers must walk to get the equipment and encourage storage of equipment immediately after use, which increases productivity. A tidy, organised work area is a safe work area, helping to reduce the amount of equipment that is left lying around.

Our second-generation TuffBank has new safety, strength and security features, with optional PowerShelf and crane lifting eyes. It has also been tested and certified by Secured by Design (SBD) – the UK’s official police preferred specification, making it an ideal choice for site set-up.

Reducing equipment theft on site by installing short to medium term secure storage is vital.

We have also included the Forma-Stor range; a strong and secure, rapid assembly, walk-in storage container. The ingenious modular design means it can be easily transported, assembled, deconstructed and flat packed in as little as 10 minutes without the need for tools. The 1 metre option is the only collapsible storage container of its kind on the market.

Ensure safety and awareness of work areas.

Our new innovative InstaGate crowd control barrier is a 'quick-to-deploy' system for site safety. Made from strong, lightweight aluminium, the Armorgard barrier is designed for easy movement and secure placement. With its braked wheels and a unique latching system, InstaGate can extend to any length and be opened and fixed single-handedly. Once expanded and braked, InstaGate forms a highly visible red and white barrier. Multiple units can be easily locked together.

A smart, healthy way to handle waste and rubble

Ergonomically designed for maximum performance and efficiency, the Rubble Truck pulls on an array of unique features to create an indispensable onsite companion. Featuring an in-built tipping feature, a huge 400 litre capacity scoop, extra strength crane lift eyes, solid rubber wheels, and a unique stackable design, our multi-purpose Rubble Truck means you can maintain a working space that’s safe and clutter free.

Safe, segregated battery charging

Power tools and mobile devices are especially vulnerable to theft when being charged on site. Our secure battery charging locker bank allows you to charge your equipment unattended, confident in the knowledge that it is safe from thieves. Specifically designed for power tools, mobile phones and other electrical devices; the PowerStation is ideal for use in the site office.

Want to discuss how we can help your next construction site set up run smoothly? Speak to our dedicated Site Set-Up account manager Karen Saunders today. Call on 023 9238 0280 or email karen.saunders@armorgard.co.uk

C’est en observant la vie sur les chantiers, et notamment en échangeant avec divers acteurs des chantiers du Grand Paris, qu’Armorgard a identifié le besoin pour une unité mobile polyvalente capable d’accueillir divers équipements permettant de répondre aux exigences en matière de santé et de sécurité.

C’est ainsi qu’est née l’idée de créer HydroHut, une unité permettant d’intégrer une fontaine à eau et de rendre facilement accessible l’eau potable sur les lieux de travail.

Pourvue d’un coffret électrique 230 V et 380 V, HydroHut peut être raccordée à l’alimentation électrique du site. HydroHut permet ainsi de brancher une fontaine rafraîchissante. Ses divers compartiments peuvent également accueillir une trousse de premiers secours, un défibrillateur, un extincteur ou d’autres équipements de protection individuelle.

Grâce à ses roulettes industrielles pourvues de frein, HydroHut peut facilement être déplacé sur le chantier au gré des besoins. L’unité est également équipée d’anneaux de levage qui permettent de l’acheminer sur site avec une grue.

Sa couleur rouge bien visible la rend facilement repérable et une signalisation spécifique peut être installée sur l’extérieur des portes afin d’intégrer des informations santé et sécurité. Comme la grande majorité des solutions Armorgard, HydroHut est fabriquée en acier de 2 à 3 mm doté d’une finition époxy très résistante et durable.

Découvrez toutes les caractéristiques d'HydroHut en visitant la page produit.

RAMS, Safety, Welfare boards - whatever name your construction site station goes by -  are what some might call “make-shift”, usually made by carpenters on site and often thrown into the skip after a project is completed. In other words: they haven’t helped deliver a distinguished health and safety message.

At Armorgard, we believe H&S information delivery goes far beyond the standard requirement.. Our mission behind InstructaHut, for instance, is to truly change the image of H&S information delivery, as well as making it more efficient and effective, particularly for smaller building and construction sites that may not have portacabin welfare units or RAMS boards.

The new improved InstructaHut could be described as a hybrid of RAMS, first-aid and fire-safety board. Our aim was to create an information board that would be recognised by its shape and colour, to instinctively remind anybody on site of H&S instructions and responsibilities.

Smart and professional, it stands out on site and helps contractors to remain compliant while keeping sites safe. The durable and easy-to-clean base is perfect for even the toughest environments; the double-sided board, which can be vinyl wrapped in red for fire safety products and green for first aid products, offers great usage flexibility.

Add the optional Armorgard cabinet and you immediately provide a secure storage area for documents, tools, PPE, fire and first-aid equipment.

We believe InstructaHut is an essential health and safety solution for all construction sites. Can you afford not to have one? Make use of this all-in-one noticeboard, meeting point and emergency station for first-aid, H&S and fire equipment.

If we all work together we can make the construction industry a healthier and safer place to work in.

The UK's leading site safety and security products manufacturer says it is responding to increasing market demands with InstaGate readily available in volume for distributors who want to sell the item on a next day delivery basis or for hire companies who want to buy in bulk to keep plenty in stock.

"We are very excited to release this new product that will enable Armorgard to provide customers with the next generation of crowd control barrier," said Armorgard Managing Director Terry Mitchell. "Our customers want a product that is quick to order and quick to deploy. InstaGate ticks both boxes."

Made from strong, lightweight aluminium, the Armorgard mobile barrier is designed for easy movement and secure placement. With its braked wheels and a unique latching system, InstaGate can extend to any length and be opened and fixed single-handedly. Once expanded and braked, InstaGate forms a highly visible red and white barrier. Multiple units can be easily locked together.

“Armorgard has always believed quality product innovations can truly enhance everyday life, and this commitment has helped us reinvent the standard crowd control barrier,” said Terry Mitchell. “Similarly, we believe customers should expect more from new products in terms of user experience. The InstaGate crowd control barrier delivers on this notion."

InstaGate, which is available in 4ft and 6ft heights, can be used with standard scaffold claps for fixing to scaffold or to turn corners. Armorgard say the product is durable, weather proof, designed for low wind resistance and very user friendly.

"Making life easier for those who use our products is at the core of our design thinking, and we are proud to use the full strength of our R&D capability to set a new standard in crowd control barriers,” said Armorgard’s Head of Product Development Matt Partridge “When we began this project, we started with a blank sheet and asked ourselves ‘what does the customer truly need in a barrier?’ Our new system answers this question through an ergonomic design that offers the utmost in functionality, durability and security.”

So, what do you need to consider when purchasing flat pack containers? We’ve covered everything in this buyers guide.

What is a flat pack container?

Flat pack containers, also known as modular site containers, consist of panels that slot together to create a sturdy storage solution.

In recent times these containers have been more commonly used due to their durable, yet lightweight features that make transportation easy and keep contents safe and secure. In fact, many flat pack containers offer impressive safety features that can discourage and even prevent theft of important tools and equipment stored within.

Who should consider a flat pack storage container?

Construction contractors looking for quick, convenient and efficient storage will benefit from a flat pack storage container, particularly when there’s a need for storage but there’s limited space or restricted access.

Flat pack containers are easily transported because of their lightweight features, and can be dismantled just as effortlessly as they are constructed. This means that if you need more space, or don’t need the container, you can easily pack it away to create more room and re-construct it when needed again.

The speed at which these products can be assembled and disassembled is of particular use to contractors because it really means less time is spent on getting a storage area set up and more time is spent working on the task at hand.

In fact, effective storage containers can save money in other ways too. According to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), more than 51% of builders in the UK have been a victim of tool theft. With that in mind, it’s important to consider the security features of flat pack containers - many are constructed with extremely robust materials in order to combat this.

Where to buy a flat pack container?

If you’re looking for modular site containers it’s important to choose the right provider. As leading suppliers of secure storage solutions for tools, equipment and hazardous substances, Armorgard understand exactly what is needed - security, durability and quality.

All Armorgard products, including our Forma-Stor flat pack containers, are exceptionally secure and enjoy the reputation of  being indestructible and reliable within the industry. Further to that, strict quality control and ergonomic design make the product easy to use and allow optimum  productivity. You won't find better products anywhere else.

The Forma-Stor is a great example of all these features in action and if you require a flat pack container for your construction project, it is certainly one to consider. Simply get in touch with our experienced team to discuss your requirements.

Why choose Forma-Stor?

Forma-Stor is our quick and easy to assemble flat pack container for on-site storage. Armorgard’s aim is to increase security, safety and productivity in the construction industry, so this high-quality modular site container has been designed and manufactured with that in mind.

So, what makes this container stand out amongst the rest?

Quick Assembly  

Constructing the Forma-Stor flat pack container couldn’t be easier.  These walk-in units are constructed using galvanised panels that slot together simply. Not only does this mean that the container can be assembled in as little as 10 minutes, the final result is a sturdy, weatherproof store that comes in multiple size and format options.

Take a look at how easy it is to assemble the Forma-Stor below.

Easy to transport

Forma-Stor features forklift pockets for easy transportation and lifting eyes for crane loading so you’ll have no trouble at all when it comes to moving in and out and around your site. Further to that, the entire container is designed to be lightweight, so moving panels around for assembly is easy - it can be assembled with just two people.  

Secure on-site storage

With the theft of tools and equipment on the rise, security is a key factor when choosing flat pack containers. Forma-Stor containers come with 5-lever deadlocks and jemmy proof joins that ensure security at all times. This means peace of mind because you know your equipment will be safe on site.

How to choose the right flat pack container?

Choosing the right container for your site is essential. There’s no use in wasting space by ordering something too large or not large enough. Thankfully, there are four Forma-Stor models that cover all options:

1. FR100-T

2. FR200-T

3. FR300-T

4. FR400-T

Each model varies in size meaning there is a model for every site, regardless of the space available. In fact, Forma-Stor flat pack containers are ideal to place in awkward corners or hard to reach spaces.

There is also the Forma-Stor COSHH, a COSHH compliant flat pack container, to consider. This container features all the benefits outlined in the standard Form-Stor unit. However, several HSE features have been designed in order for contractors to easily meet COSHH regulations on-site. These features include:

• 30-min fire resistance
• Air Vents
• Fully welded sump to prevent leaks

Looking for durable, robust and reliable on-site storage? The Forma-Stor flat pack container is the ideal solution for all contractors working on site. Request a quote today by adding your chosen product to your enquiry basket.

If you would like to discuss your requirements further, simply get in touch with the team today on 023 9238 0280 or sales@armogard.co.uk

New, sliding, tool storage drawer system for vehicles. 

The TrekDror system increases space efficiency; provides easier access, more security, and more flexibility.  

TrekDror is made from lightweight corrugated steel and is designed to fit into smaller spaces, such as under a shelf or between wheel arches.  

The system is stackable and includes bolt down points so it can be fixed down, plus 5-lever deadlocks for extra security. 

Constructed with a unique ultra-smooth bearing and roller system, the storage drawer has a 75kg capacity and is 80% extendable so that tools can be accessed easily and safely. The drawer can also be easily removed if required.  

“TrekDror has been designed and built for the tradesperson who relies on a van to transport them, and their tools and equipment, to jobs,” said Matt Partridge, Head of Product Development at Armorgard. “Because access in vehicles can be quite restricted, a traditional toolbox cannot have items stored on top as this would prevent the lid from opening. TrekDror solves that problem, optimising in-vehicle storage, and offering additional security. 

“Armorgard is committed to protecting livelihoods by combatting tool theft and providing products that help our customers work more efficiently, effectively and safely. All our products are researched, designed, developed and built to meet the exact needs of customers.” 

More information about the Armorgard TrekDror sliding tool storage drawer system for vehicles including different sizes options and how to order, can be found by visiting www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/trekdror

All of which means that if you want to upgrade to a more efficient pallet storage system, you’ll probably be well-served with the FlexiKart, which is an effective means for keeping goods 'off the ground' on sites. Particularly when the concrete formwork has been erected and there are many pallets of goods coming in to start the fit-out stage.

Armorgard design chief Matt Partridge called The FlexiKart “the smartest manual handling and product storage capabilities ever in a pallet skate” and said that it’s the first multi-purpose, safer, folding, crane liftable pallet skate on the market, and we see no reason to dispute that.

It’s packed with beautifully, innovative and practical features (which puts it in a different league to the standard pallet skate), along with a long list of real benefits.

It’s designed to solve a real common problem.

The original design came about as a customer had high-stacked pallets of goods that needed to be moved around regularly and therefore was not always efficient to be searching for a pallet truck/fork lift. They needed a heavy-duty trolley of sorts.

The load improvements are particularly impressive in that it can comfortably sit a 1200x1000 pallet and, thanks to four folding arms, handle items which are longer e.g. boards, ducting etc. Translated: it’s a heck of a lot more useful - meaning a pallet size space of virtually anything can be easily transported around without the need for the pallet truck or forklift.  And because of the four arms combined with four swivel castors (two braked) the FlexiKart is easily manoeuvred in any required direction (capacity: 1200kg)

It’s got the safety X factor

By using a combination of the box section arms and the lashing rings, the FlexiKart provides a safe transportation method for the goods to prevent H&S incidents. It’s also more ergonomically friendly than using a standard pallet skate because of the folding arms, which means the person using The FlexiKart doesn’t need to bend down.

The versatility ain’t bad

The FlexiKart is easily stackable (with fork pocket skids), is multipurpose: goods pallets, boards, grating, tubes/pipes/ducting, non-hazardous drums, crates, and you can use two in tandem for long loads when necessary.

FlexiKart saves the planet

Removes need to use a forklift every time you need to move the goods or equipment. If you want to save money and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time, switching from a fork lift truck power source to The FlexiKart can achieve both these goals.

Both have a direct impact on the availability of skills, particularly in areas where the shortage is at its most acute, such as bricklaying, carpentry, engineering, plant operations, scaffolding, and groundworks, to name but a few.

Of course, Brexit has created a climate of political and economic uncertainty that one way or another affects every business in the UK, including construction.

But you can't lay the entire blame for the construction skills shortage on Brexit.

The truth is that Brexit has merely highlighted a significant problem - demand is outstripping supply of skilled workers. In fact, a shortage of construction workers faced by small and medium-sized businesses has hit its worst level on record,

The scale of the challenge for construction is in attracting young people. The industry must re-think its culture and image. It has to improve recruitment and training.

The bottom line is that Young People Don’t Want Construction Jobs and the existing ageing workforce is largely unhappy - the epidemic of mental illness in construction workers is a case in point.

This disillusionment and disinterest in construction work is contributing to a labor shortage and that is a major problem for the construction sector. Because demand is high. 2019 is a year for big projects.

The Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset, for example, is the largest construction project in Europe. And public housing is about to boom - the government has pledged to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s.

So what is the cure for the generation syndrome holding back construction?

Developing purpose-built construction training centres, such as Berkeley's West London Construction Academy, and providing training on demand is the way forward.

Commercial organisations want training at the point of need – i.e. bespoke training at short notice, and not just for school leavers during the academic year. 

And school leavers need to be able to take advantage of available on-site training, delivering those apprenticeships in in skills shortage areas when they’re required.

It's about reacting to the realities of the commercial world and to the needs and wants of Millennials and Post-Millennials. And making sure the Baby Boomers and Generation X get the support they need.

En tant que créateurs, designers et experts produits, nous avons une responsabilité pour rendre ce que nous développons aussi facile que possible à utiliser et idéalement simplifier le quotidien de ceux qui les emploient. Nous demandons aux utilisateurs finaux ce qu’ils attendent de l’équipement et nous essayons de comprendre quels sont les problèmes qu’ils essaient de résoudre. Par expérience, nous savons que même pour les problèmes les plus complexes, il existe toujours une solution. 

Cette étape d’interaction avec l’utilisateur final est indispensable dans un processus de design. Nous devons pousser la réflexion au-delà du réflexe du fameux “on fait les choses d’une manière parce que l’on a les toujours faites ainsi”. Cette manière de penser a des conséquences profondes sur la sécurité et l’efficacité sur les chantiers. Notre objectif est de faire des chantiers du bâtiment des endroits dans lesquels le travail est plus sûr, efficace et se fait dans le respect de la santé.

Le travail sur l’évolution de la station de découpe CuttingStation est une excellente illustration du processus d’amélioration continue du design d’un produit. Après avoir lancé la toute première version de la CuttingStation SS3 il y a trois ans, nous sommes allés chercher des retours de la part des personnes ayant investi dans l’équipement et l’utilisant au quotidien sur les chantiers afin de comprendre les impératifs en termes de sécurité et d’identifier les améliorations à apporter au produit. 

Si le produit d’origine a clairement révolutionné le travail de découpes sur chantiers en minimisant les nuisances liées aux bruits et aux poussières, la seconde version lancée il y a quelques mois, CuttingStation SS7, pousse la réflexion autour du confort de travail et de la sécurité encore plus loin. 

Cette fois, un dispositif est mis en place pour atténuer les vibrations sur les mains et les bras des utilisateurs, le système d’éclairage a été repositionné pour optimiser le confort visuel grâce à une meilleure distribution de la lumière. L’ergonomie de l’équipement permet de lutter encore plus contre les maux de dos et les multiples risques liés à la manipulation et à la découpe de pièces de longues dimensions. Ainsi la zone de découpe de la CuttingStation a été agrandie grâce à une surface de travail extensible qui permet d’installer une scie à onglet pour les découpes d’éléments bois (plinthes, tasseaux ou baguettes) et le poste de travail est doté d’ouvertures sur les côtés et des bras de supports stables et ergonomiques ont été ajoutés pour facilité la découpe des pièces de grande longueur.

Le but premier du design est d’inventer, d’améliorer ou de faciliter un usage. Armorgard l’a bien compris et nous prenons systématiquement cette dimension en compte.
 

Compressed gas cylinders are used across many different industries, ranging from restaurants & medical, to industrial settings, such as construction, warehousing and workshops. 

While different gases have different properties, they have similar hazards regarding identification and handling, and storage poses a range of complex risks from the physical size of the metal cylinder, to the volatile nature of the compressed gas inside.  This is why storing gas cylinders standing upright without chains or cages, or without safety caps placed over their valves, can be highly dangerous.

Some industrial gas cylinders can be more than 2 metres high and weigh more than 140kg. If a cylinder falls over, the pressurized valve can shear off, turning the cylinder into a deadly 170 mph torpedo, resulting in a potentially devastating chain reaction.  When handling, storing and transporting industrial gas cylinders safely, implementing recognized industry good practices can hugely reduce the chance of serious injuries or even fatalities in the event of any incident. 

Below are five tips designed to increase safety and security when dealing with gas cylinders:

1. Always know what you are handling

Always use the cylinder label to identify the contents of the cylinder, rather than relying on the colour of the cylinder.  If a label is missing or unreadable, don’t use the cylinder.  All gases have their own properties and hazards, so if you’re handling or transporting cylinders you need to read the safety data sheets in order to understand that particular product’s key properties and risks.

2. Check your cylinders are in a safe condition

If any cylinders show signs of impact, heat damage or discolouration, treat them with extreme caution and contact the supplier immediately.

3. Make sure cylinders are always stored correctly

Gas cylinders need to be kept vertical, and should be stored and used in a well-ventilated, well-drained area, away from sources of heat or ignition and segregated by type. It’s important not to keep any other products in a cylinder store, particularly any flammable materials. You should store full and empty cylinders separately and rotate your stock so that the oldest cylinders get used up first. 

4. Use best practice and common sense when transporting cylinders

Secure cylinders properly to prevent them moving or getting knocked over. All cylinders should be secured with straps and chocks to prevent them from rolling around. In particular, ensure the valves are protected, to prevent them from being knocked open while you’re on the move. Always transport LPG (propane) and liquefied gas cylinders upright. If you are moving acetylene cylinders and can’t avoid having them lying down, it’s important to make sure they are stood upright for at least 30 minutes before they are used.

5. Use a safe lifting and manual handing technique

When lifting a cylinder, take a firm hold around the neck or collar of a cylinder with both hands. Keep your back straight and move into the cylinder as it rises. Never lift a cylinder by the cylinder valve or valve hand-wheel.  Don’t ever try and catch a falling cylinder – let them fall and move away from the direction of the impact.

Want to know more about storing industrial gas cylinders ?

Take a look at our range of gas storage cages:

Gorilla Gas Cage

TuffCage

DrumCage

Options include the DB2S euro pallet size, which holds 2x drums; the DB4S standard pallet size, which holds 4x drums; and the DBIBC1, specifically designed for IBC containers.

There is also extra height to allow for drums that have pumps fitted to the top, plus options for storing and transporting different sized and multiple drums and IBCs.

“We are very pleased to be able to expand our respected DrumBank range with the introduction of these unique benefits,” said Matt Partridge R&D Manager at Armorgard. “Other current designs don’t allow extra space for drums that have pumps fitted to the top, or allow extra storage for smaller cans or accessories to be stored securely with the drums."

Other key features include COSHH compliant fire resistant performance up to 30 mins, flameproof gauze ventilation, heavy-duty doors and 5-lever deadlocks, fully welded sump, removable grated flooring, high and low ventilation and forklift pockets.

More information about the DrumBank range, including full specifications, product options and how to order can be found by visiting: https://www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/drumbank​

With the financial services company Legal and General planning to deliver 3,500 modular homes a year via it's modular factory near Leeds, could there be a post-Brexit upside for UK housebuilding?

Brexit is happening whether we want it or not. The construction industry in the UK must prepare, and embrace the changes and opportunities that will come from Britain leaving the European Union.

Of course we can be certain of some form of disruption occurring throughout the UK come Brexit-time. So what opportunities can Brexit provide to the construction industry in the UK?

There will be a need to boost the domestic skills base, and also a focus on innovation of construction methods to deal with an increased limitation on resources.

The most obvious solution will be the promotion of offsite construction and a pre-modular approach to building works, particular housebuilding.

Think of IKEA, but on a much bigger scale - modular homes constructed from “modules” that are pre-built off-site in factories and then brought to site to finish the construction.

Modular homes that are precision-engineered, digitally designed, eco-efficient, slashing energy bills and affordable. Not just affordable to build, but to live in.

Modular technology is also very quick to assemble - some estimates put completion rates at 60 per cent quicker than traditional construction.

As well as being quick to assemble, it is quick, and more sustainable, to disassemble i.e. relocated somewhere else, providing a permanent solution in a temporary location.

Another key benefit of modular homes is the ability to use small plots of land that aren’t easily accessible; the homes aren’t built from scratch, reducing the size of the building sites and the number of lorries, mixers, plant, equipment, materials and labour.

Plus building homes in a controlled environment means you can guarantee quality and deliver it, which means keeping costs down - an ideal solution for social rented homes sectors or targeting first-time buyers at the bottom of the affordability scale. 

Do you think modular technology could be a post-Brexit affordable housing solution?

Il n’y a pas qu’un type de mal de dos, il y a malheureusement plein de façons d’avoir mal au dos. Les salariés du BTP en savent quelque chose. Dans le secteur de la construction, près d’un salarié sur deux est susceptible de travailler dans des conditions qui vont favoriser l’apparition de Troubles Musculo-Squelettiques (TMS). D’ailleurs, les TMS sont la première cause de maladie professionnelle dans le BTP en France.

Déplacer ou porter de lourdes charges, faire levier, soulever, se baisser, voici les gestes du quotidien des ouvriers sur les chantiers. Ces mouvements, répétés tous les jours pendant des années, surtout s’ils sont mal exécutés, peuvent finir par occasionner des douleurs plus ou moins gênantes, temporaires ou persistantes. La région des lombaires, en bas du dos, est la plus touchée. Mais, selon la posture, le mal de dos peut également affecter les régions dorsales ou cervicales.

Le mal de dos peut entraîner des arrêts maladie pouvant, dans les cas les plus sévères, déboucher sur un handicap irréversible et une incapacité à travailler. Sans parler de ces cas extrêmes, il est très fréquent que le mal de dos contraigne le professionnel dans son activité au quotidien. 

L’organisation du travail peut être perturbée notamment en cas d’arrêt maladie et les conséquences financières peuvent, bien entendu, être lourdes, notamment si les absences entraînent des pénalités de retard. 
Il est donc dans l’intérêt des chefs d’entreprise de mettre en oeuvre des moyens de prévention efficaces pour leurs salariés. Une bonne organisation des chantiers peut permettre d’éviter le port répété de charges trop lourdes et des mouvements inutiles. Avoir les matériaux à disposition et à la bonne hauteur réduit les risques physiques liés à la manutention. Les équipements, tels que des accessoires de levage ou de manutention, de par leur usage quotidien, constituent un autre moyen non négligeable d’améliorer les conditions et le confort de travail. Leur usage permet de prévenir la pénibilité et les risques d’accidents au travail.

La gamme Armorgard offre de nombreuses solutions permettant de lutter contre le risque de troubles musculo-squelettiques. Rubble Truck est une benne à gravas basculante d’une capacité maximale de 400 litres permettant de déplacer sans peine des charges conséquentes. PipeRack est un rack de stockage mobile très facile à manœuvrer et conçu pour le stockage de tuyaux, profilés et chemins de câble sur les chantiers. La station de découpe CuttingStation et les établis TuffBench et Mobile TuffBench, quant à eux, permettent de travailler et d’effectuer des découpes à la bonne hauteur, sans avoir à courber le dos. Il existe une solution Armorgard à chaque problématique.  Armorgard a toujours mis un point d’honneur à observer les gestes des ouvriers sur les chantiers afin de comprendre au mieux leurs contraintes et pouvoir ainsi développer les solutions les plus ergonomiques qu’il soit.

The poster provides basic information to construction workers on how to tell if someone may need mental health support, listing behavioural and physical signs, and what to do if you suspect someone may need support.

It also includes a section for further help and advice including a blank section for the contact details of a Mental Health First Aider.

“This is crucial because Mental Health First Aiders have the power, ultimately, to save lives.,” said Reuben Mitchell, Armorgard Marketing Director. “It is estimated that 40,000 MHFAiders are needed to provide an adequate level of cover for the whole industry, and this poster encourages companies to make this important training available to their staff.”

The mental health and wellbeing of construction workers is one of the biggest issues the industry is currently facing. In 2016/17, the sector lost 400,000 working days due to stress, anxiety or depression – the equivalent of losing 1,600 full time workers each year.

"We understand that physical health needs to be protected on construction sites,” Reuben Mitchell said “But you can't protect your mental health with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and suicide is the biggest killer of construction workers. To give mental health parity, therefore seems like a no-brainer.

“Whilst construction workers are known to be vulnerable to experiencing mental ill health, with improved basic awareness, we can all contribute to ensuring that industry approaches to managing mental health risks are effective. This poster provides all the basic information needed in a clear and accessible form.”

The poster is also available in an electronic format for download from the Armorgard website for use by construction companies.

Armorgard will also include the A3 size poster as part of their InstructaHut, on-site emergency station and central meeting point, solution, which is used on construction sites throughout the UK.

Jaan Madan, Workplace Lead for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England says the poster will help to embed robust approaches to mental health across the industry.

“There is still a need to increase mental health support in the workplace, especially in the construction industry. We welcome Armorgard’s initiative, which represents an important commitment to tackling the issue and raising awareness in the sector.”

To view the poster click here and to learn more about Mental Health First Aid visit www.mhfaengland.org .

User experience encompasses the interaction our customers have with our products. Here at Armorgard, we can't be successful unless our customers are successful and, because of that, one of our company-wide goals is to ensure that our customers have the best possible experience when working with our products.

More importantly, we strive to make sure the product is simple enough to use that it supports customers work rather than hinder it.

Earlier this month, the design team at Armorgard was tasked with creating a new safety handle as part of our PipeRack mobile on-site pipe and conduit storage solution, in an effort to improve the functionality. 

We looked at how we could improve the manipulation of the  PipeRack when it is loaded, and how we could ensure the safety of operators at all times. 

Cased in a PVC rubber jacket, the 3mm steel handle fits to both the 1 tonne and 2 tonne PipeRack with just two bolts, and is also weather resistant.

The wellbeing of our end-users comes first and in case of any uncertainties around a product's performance, we are committed to addressing those immediately.

What's Next 

There are always ways to enhance user experience, so we encourage all customers to send us your feedback and reach out to us to participate in our research efforts. In the meantime, we hope you like the new enhanced PipeRack. 

Les entreprises du second oeuvre sont particulièrement exposées aux vols sur les chantiers ou dans les véhicules utilitaires. Les petits équipements électroportatifs sont faciles à dérober et tout autant à revendre. Certains éléments comme le cuivre, les câbles électriques ou d'autres accessoires électriques ou sanitaires sont très attrayants pour les personnes mal intentionnées. Par ailleurs, les vols ne sont pas toujours le fruit d’une intrusion et ont parfois lieu au sein même des chantiers.

Les conséquences financières directes peuvent être très lourdes et les conséquences indirectes sont nombreuses, car, au-delà du vol, il faut supporter le coût des pénalités de retard liées au délai pour remplacer le matériel volé. La maîtrise d’ouvrage estime souvent que l’entreprise est responsable de la protection de ses outils et fournitures et les entrepreneurs se trouvent souvent livrés à eux-mêmes.

Au cours des dernières années, le nombre d’actions visant à limiter les vols se sont développées : vidéo surveillance, gardiennage, technologie RFID, etc. De nombreux dispositifs existent, néanmoins, ils ne sont pas toujours efficaces. Par ailleurs, un certain fatalisme semble s’être emparé de la profession. Les entrepreneurs finissent par y voir une certaine fatalité et, lorsqu’ils sont touchés, ils ne portent pas forcément plainte, estimant souvent qu’ils ne seront pas couverts par leur assurance.

La gamme Armorgard offre de nombreuses solutions pour lutter contre les problèmes de vol. Différents types de coffres et armoires de rangement sécurisé sont disponibles avec diverses contenances et configurations. Il existe un rangement sécurisé Armorgard pour chaque problématique, que ce soit sur un chantier, sur un lieu de stockage ou dans un véhicule utilitaire. Les solutions sont performantes, ergonomiques et durables. Aujourd’hui, ce type de rangement n’est pas si fréquent que cela sur le terrain. Alors, pourquoi ne pas créer de nouvelles pratiques ? 

Découvrez la gamme complète de solutions de stockage sécurisé Armorgard avec TuffBank, OxBox, BarroBox, TuffStor Cabinet, FittingStor.  

Automation creates wealth by allowing us to do more work in less time. How can the industry use that wealth to foster human prosperity?

Many of the great inventions of the last 200 years were designed to replace human labour. Tractors were developed to substitute mechanical power for human physical toil. Assembly lines were engineered to replace inconsistent human handiwork with machine perfection. Computers were programmed to swap out error-prone, inconsistent human calculation with digital perfection. These inventions have worked. We no longer dig ditches by hand, pound tools out of wrought iron or do bookkeeping using actual books.

The advancement of automation is progress in many ways, but maybe the most valuable progress is not the obvious (mechanical) ways?

It is said, with some authority, that 600,000 of the current 2.2m positions in the construction industry could be automated by 2040 as the so called “Fourth Industrial Revolution” turns the sector on its head.

Many construction jobs could be eliminated over the next two decades as advances in robotics and digital technology mean human builders are replaced.

Machines have been developed to increase efficiency in tasks like brick laying. Although residential construction has been slow to adopt technology and change, robotics in brick laying - along with other digital technology should be a serious consideration.

But even if our machines increasingly do our work for us, it doesn't always follow that labour becomes redundant or our skills obsolete?

In the 45 years since the introduction of the automated teller machine (ATM), those vending machines that dispense cash, the number of human bank tellers employed has roughly doubled.

Which raises an intriguing question: what are all those tellers doing, and why hasn't automation eliminated their employment by now?

ATMs replaced a lot of teller tasks. But those tellers ended up doing somewhat different work. As their routine, cash-handling tasks receded, they became less like checkout clerks and more like salespeople, forging relationships with customers, solving problems and introducing them to new products like credit cards, loans and investments: more tellers doing a more cognitively demanding job.

There's a general principle here. Most of the work that we do requires a multiplicity of skills.

In general, automating some subset of those tasks doesn't make the other ones unnecessary. In fact, it makes them more important. It increases their economic value.

Here's the broader point. ATMs could do certain cash-handling tasks faster and better than tellers, but that didn't make tellers superfluous. It increased the importance of their problem-solving skills and their relationships with customers.

The same principle applies if we're building a building.

As our tools improve, technology magnifies our leverage and increases the importance of our expertise and our judgment and our creativity.

Jobs that people do will be important. They can't be done by machines, but they still need to be done. But that doesn't tell us how many jobs there will need to be.

Sure, technology can eliminate jobs, but automation creates wealth by allowing us to do more work in less time.

There is no economic law, however, that says that we will use that wealth well, and that is worth thinking about.

This is the challenge that automation poses for construction.

How does the industry reap the harvest of its technological prosperity?

In the next few years, construction labour employment is likely to fall significantly, purely due to rising productivity - through automation.

What do you think the remaining workers are going to do?"

We hope that construction finds something remarkable to do with all of that prosperity.

Get involved. Have your say.

Construction's challenge of improving efficiency and productivity, and attracting a new generation of tech-savvy workers and disruptive thinking management, can be addressed only by building a powerful innovation ecosystem.

Our aspiration should be to reinvent construction as an innovation industry. But look at construction's track record. The second least “digitised” business sector currently (after agriculture) and the least productive of any industry.

What is getting in the way? It is often said that construction innovations are not disruptive. They are often first to construction and not first to other sectors. Also, construction has an image of technophobes with low productivity and limited innovation.

Disruption just seems like a bridge too far for an industry with a high dependency on low cost, semi-skilled labour.

When we hear people talking about disruption, we tend to think about sectors such as automotive, finance, media, travel etc., but not construction. We look to the likes of Uber, Airbnb, Snapchat, Zopa - brands that turned their industries upside down - but we rarely look inside our own industry, because we can't see how or where similar disruption can happen, although they said the same thing about other sectors.

Not many people predicted the arrival of innovative Intel processors in the Eighties, which disrupted office work. It was the same a decade later, when Amazon reinvented the concept of shopping, and Ryanair and EasyJet disrupted air travel.

But innovation is rational and even if people have initial reservations, they invariably get how it could work.  Disruption, however, is irrational, and the idea does not sit comfortably in an industry that is often reluctant to innovate and resistant to change, and is also traditionally slow in introducing new skills and technology.

Nonetheless, one can easily see how technology such as automation and robotics has huge disruptive potential within construction - and digital techniques and tools are becoming more widely available.

But where is the average construction company sitting in that? If we want an industry that embraces innovation, there needs to be a combination of client demand and contractors willing to change and invest. Disruption, meanwhile, is an entirely different matter.

One could argue that construction has been a slow burn of innovation - change that has taken place slowly over time, and has allowed for gradual development of materials, methods, products, procedures etc. Disruption, however, is a change to the market that is so powerful and different that it requires others in the field to follow suit or be left behind.

It's hard to see how construction could "do a Netflix" for example - completely changing a market, with its on-demand subscription model, accessible from the comfort of our own homes, and ultimately putting Blockbuster out of business.

Or adopt the irrational mind-set of Uber, asking ‘What if I could get everyone in London to be a taxi driver?’ and then apply technology to achieve that.

It is difficult to disrupt an industry that is extremely cautious by nature and highly restricted by client demands.  Disruptive innovation needs collaboration and organisation, not just fantastic ideas.

But construction arguably needs to both innovate and disrupt if it is to have any chance of fixing its productivity, sustainability, and skills issues.

Maybe the answer is in start-ups, whose products and services could deliver those disruptive innovations, although technological advancement without practical experience can create solutions that don’t deliver or integrate.

We need both the government and industry leaders to embrace the potential transformative benefits of innovation and help deliver a standardisation of digital tools and methods, for example, which not only have huge disruptive potential, but can also help construction compete alongside other industries for the best talent.

Lifting is not complicated. You pick something up and put in back down again. 

Yet more than a third of all workplace injuries which result in someone being off work for more than three days are caused by poor manual handling.

In the construction industry, back pain often occurs due to the nature of the job with plasterers, bricklayers and joiners frequently cited at high risk. 

With this in mind, we’ve put together a 'Top Tips for Manual Handling’ to help you get the basics right.

Aside from following the specific lifting guidelines outlined in the HSE’s Manual Handling Assessment Chart, there are other steps you can take to lift correctly and minimise strain:

• When lifting, lift no more than 23 kg, and do not reach more than 25 cm away from your body. Keep your back straight and don’t twist.

• Avoid bending from the waist and try and lift with a ‘broad base’ i.e. your feet about shoulder width apart or more. This will make you more stable. And don’t lift with your arms straight out, keep the elbows bent and to your side to minimise the stress on your back. If you do have to put the weight you are carrying on the floor, try and keep your shoulders, hips and knees pointing in the same direction, have a ‘wide base’ and bend your knees rather than your back

• Change work materials to suit the above requirements. For instance, opt for half bags instead of full bags, or distribute the contents of full bags into suitable receptacles.

• Use handling aids where appropriate – aids can include trolleys specially designed for storing and transporting plasterboard, wheeled storage racks for moving pipes and trucks for handling waste and rubble.

• Store materials to be lifted at a suitable height. This height will depend on where the material needs to be lifted to.

• It is not just the weight, but the size and shape of an object that can make it hard to carry so, where possible, break loads into smaller and more manageable chunks.

• Always try and keep your knees bent when taking bags or boxes out of a vehicle and remember to avoid twisting whilst lifting. 

Does it require any tools to erect?

There are 8 x bolts to fix within each unit, so you just require a tool to do this part.

How quickly can I erect a Forma-Stor?

This depends on the size store you have purchased, and how many people you have to assist, but they have been erected in less than 6 minutes!

Is the Forma-Stor a secure unit?

The Forma-Stor has been designed with security in mind, including secure 5-lever deadlocks to secure the door shut.

How many panels make up a Forma-Stor?

Each Forma-Stor is made up of 4 x wall panels, a base and a roof.

What makes a flat-packed unit better than a fully welded unit?

Where access is tight or limited, these units can be taken to location one panel at a time. A flat-packed Forma-Stor caters for easy storing while not in use. Easy to transport between sites and around the site. Woth forklift pockets and crane lifting eyes, they are easy to move when erected or flat-packed.

Is the Forma-Stor a stock item?

Yes. Armorgard keep the Forma-Stor in stock for immediate despatch.

Do you deliver the Forma-Stor to me, or do I have to collect?

Yes. Armorgard deliver across the UK, often the carriage is an additional cost. Forma-Stor can also be collected from our central distribution centre in Fareham.

This collision of talent factors could drive productivity down to new lows, and even technology may not be able to save the day. But maybe "talent fit" can.

A variety of factors account for poor productivity in construction. And most of them involve people. Poor organisation and inadequate communication for starters - how many projects fall behind schedule or go over budget, or both, because subcontractors, contractors, and owners not having a common understanding of how the project is faring at any given time? 

And how many projects are burdened with the stacking-up of unresolved issues because of a lack of accountability and contractual misunderstandings?  Or afflicted by poor short-term planning (equipment and supplies not in place) and insufficient short-term risk management (the kind that crop up on the job)? 

And how many projects are doomed because of limited talent management? i.e. not finding the best people for each job.

The answer to all of the above is TOO MANY.

Will technology change this picture and boost productivity? 

There are those (mainly those business management consultants hired by tech companies) who will point to a significant growth in productivity driven by technology. These same experts will say that technology will replace a lot of jobs, regular jobs. Not only on the construction site, but even office based workers are in jeopardy and might be replaced by robots, artificial intelligence, big data, or automation. 

For those experts the question is not if technology replaces some of these jobs, but when, how fast, and to what extent? 

And it is the third part of that question - the extent - that is arguably the most important thing to consider. 

Can technology help us avoid the perfect storm?  The scientific answer is "it depends."

Let's take the automotive industry as an example, because there, more than 40 percent of industrial robots are already working and automation has already taken place. In 1980, less than 10 percent of the production cost of a car was caused by electronic parts. Today, this number is more than 30 percent and it will grow to more than 50 percent by 2030. And these new electronic parts and applications require new skills and have created a lot of new jobs. As a matter of fact, the overall number of people involved in the production of a car has only changed slightly in the last decades, in spite of robots and automation.

So what does this mean for construction? 

Yes, technology will replace many jobs, but we will also see a lot of new jobs and new skills on the horizon, and that means technology will worsen constructions overall skill mismatch. And this kind of de-averaging reveals the crucial challenge for the construction industry.

So talent (people) will, with a sense of happy irony, be the big thing in the next decade (not robots). And if humans are the scarce resource, we have to understand them much better. Are they actually willing to work in construction? What are their job preferences? What are they looking for? 

Contrary to popular misconception, salary is not the number one consideration - actually it probably is not even in the top five. 

No, what really matters to most people is all about culture; being appreciated for your work, having a great relationship with the people in charge (the boss), enjoying a great work-life balance and having a great relationship with colleagues. 

Joining the dots between this and a potential solution to the construction industry workforce crisis (labour shortage + huge skill mismatch + big cultural challenge) is not rocket science. In fact, it is VERY OBVIOUS.

Every company, from subcontracting firms to main contractors to owners (the client) needs a people strategy, and to act on it immediately, and such a people strategy consists of four parts. 

Number one, a plan for how to forecast supply and demand for different projects and different skills. Workforce planning will become more important than financial planning. Two, a plan for how to attract great people: generation Y, women, but also retirees. Three, a plan for how to educate and upskill them. There's a huge upskilling challenge ahead of construction. And four, for how to retain the best people, or in other words, how to realise an appreciation and relationship culture.

This people strategy may be constructions best cure for the productivity syndrome

However, one crucial underlying factor is to change our attitudes. People are resources, are assets, not costs, not head counts and not machines.

Every 23 minutes a van is broken into – don’t let yours be the next!

We’ve put together a comprehensive check list of things you could do to keep your van and its contents safer and more secure.  Many of these are simple precautions that don’t cost anything, but require a little care when leaving your van.  We’ve written this to help and protect you - if you find it helpful, remember to spread the advice and share it with someone else who could benefit.

For starters, we all know when it comes to securing your van that prevention is better than cure – however that’s often easier to say then do.  We’ve rated our recommendations by the ease of implementing them, and we’ve also tried to give you an indication of likely costs so you can quickly see that they might pay off.

Lock your van, and close the windows (very easy, £0)

• By doing this, you’re taking the first step to deterring thieves: over half of all tool thefts are reckoned to be opportunist thefts.  By keeping on your toes and locking up properly, no matter whether you’re leaving the van for a minute or ten minutes, you’re halving the chances of being victimized.

Park your van tightly in a corner to block access to the rear and side doors (easy, £0)

• This is an oldie, but a goodie.  Most vans comes with a single sliding door on the passenger’s side, which means if you park it very tightly in a corner, the rear and side doors are totally inaccessible - unless the thief decides to take out the wall…

Park your van in a bright, well-lit area (average, £0 - £100)

• Keeping your van in a well-lit area is a big thief deterrent, making any suspicious activity very obvious.  If you always park your van at home overnight and don’t have outside lighting, you can pick up a 3000 Lumen 38W LED flood light with a motion sensor for as cheaply as £40.[https://www.electricaldirect.co.uk/product/luceco-slimline-38w-5000k-led-pir-floodlight-blacksilver-552401?nosto=productpage-nosto-2] Make sure you mount it well out of reach!

CCTV (difficult, £100 - £400)

• This goes along with parking your van in a brightly lit area – if you have a bright PIR floodlight on your house, it should be relatively easy to install a CCTV system near it.  As with flood lights, make sure CCTV cameras are mounted as high as possible to make it harder to access.  You can get a complete home system with 4 cameras for as little as £260, such as the SWANN SWDVK-816004 [https://www.screwfix.com/p/swann-swdvk-816004-uk-8-channel-security-system-4-cameras-5-pcs/9089t] or a simple single camera that records direct to a memory card for around £120 such as the TriVision NC-336PW  [https://www.amazon.co.uk/TriVision-Waterproof-Definition-Weatherproof-Megapixel/dp/B016TFC6R4?th=1]

• CCTV can also be installed directly into your van by companies such as TVG [https://www.thevehiclegroup.com/vehicle-cctv/] who are specialists.  These solutions can also help if thieves try to steal your van, not just break into it.

Van stickers: “no tools left in this van overnight”, “This van is alarmed” (easy, £10)

• While van stickers are great, you have to be careful – the “No tools left in this van overnight” doesn’t cut ice any more.  Any thief knows that the only person that is likely to use these are the people that leave their tools in the van, so it’s best not to advertise it!  However, adding some stickers that mention the security of your tools - such as advertising a strong alarm system - can be successful.  Armorgard offer some great van stickers that advertise “My tools are secured with Armorgard”.  Another trick which is gaining popularity is to advertise yourself as something other than a contractor – a big magnetic sign saying “Florists” or “Butchers” on the side of your van isn’t going to attract much attention from tool thieves!

If possible, remove the most expensive tools overnight (average, £0)

• It’s generally harder to break into a building than a van, hence you will see this advice a lot.  It’s a good idea, although it can be hassle to put into practise.  It may seem worthless to cart your tools to your van and back every day but this is about prevention and minimizing your loss if anything does happen.  At the very least, consider removing the three or five most expensive pieces of kit from your van overnight.

Keep receipts, pictures and an inventory of your cargo and tools (average, £0)

• This is something you hear a lot from those that have been victim of theft – they wish that they had definite proof of the tools they had – because an insurance company will almost never just take your word for it.  Keeping a file of the receipts, keeping an up-to-date inventory of all your tools and regularly taking photos of them in your van all help to create a solid insurance claim.  It will take a little time but cost you nothing.

Mark tools with a UV pen (easy, £5 - £10)

• The police recover thousands of stolen goods every year: but this work is wasted if they can’t positively identify the owners.  Goods are only returned if owners can provide proof that the goods are theirs.  Using a UV pen is the most reliable and simplest way of doing this – it leaves an invisible mark that can only be detected using UV light.  You can pick up a pack of 10 on Amazon for less than £10 [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Safehaus-Permanent-Ultraviolet-Marker-Pack/dp/B004Q5APSM] to leave your personal sign on your tools for identification later.

Alarms (average, £200)

• Van alarm systems are becoming more and more popular as a strong additional line of defence for your van.  Systems like the Smart 360 can be purchased from £200, [https://smart360.co/] and are advertised to call your phone within 8 seconds of a break in, making it a fast and efficient way to get alerted of any problems.

Advanced locks (difficult, £20 - £350)

• Slamlocks – these locks are designed to lock the door securely every time it’s closed, hence the name.  Slamlocks can be fitted to most vans, and can be purchased from sites such as Vanlocks.co.uk. [https://www.vanlocks.co.uk/slamlocks/] The best slamlocks to have are those that are vehicle specific and inset into the van door.  Slamlocks can also be keyed alike to avoid having too many keys.

• Deadlocks – deadlocks are a type of lock that don’t have a spring loaded bolt, and therefore need a key to physically turn the internal cylinder, which in turn moves the bolt – making it a very difficult lock to pick.  When a 5-lever deadlock is paired with anti-drill plates, you get one of the most secure locks on the market, and the only one that is usually accepted by insurance companies for house doors.  Companies such as Van Lock Store [http://vanlockstore.co.uk/fitting-installation] will professionally fit deadlocks on your van for you, or you can find tutorials on youtube that show you how to do it yourself.

Van lock protection plates (average, £100 - £450)

• These are plates which cover the area around the lock with an additional layer of reinforcement, making locks harder to break or pick.  These can be purchased from sites such as vanlocks.co.uk [ https://www.vanlocks.co.uk/armaplate/ ] and are usually van specific – but don’t worry, protection plates are available for most popular vans.

Van box (easy, £150)

• There are several brands of van box available on the market that can upgrade your tool security.  It’s worth choosing a box that is strongly built and with good reviews.  Features such as anti-jemmy design, reinforcements, deadlocks and thick steel are all features to look out for when choosing the perfect van box.  Van boxes to avoid are those that are secured with a padlock, as most padlocks can be twisted open with a good jemmy.  For about £150, you can pick up a new Armorgard TuffBank [https://www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/tuffbank] which is a good size to fit most vans and trucks and fits all the criteria – or go one better and get a StrongBank [https://www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/strongbank], which is the best of the best!

Insurance (average, £100 - £200)

• Are you insured?  Check your insurance documents thoroughly as insurances will usually only cover you in very specific circumstances.  Make sure you are familiar with them, and do everything you can to make sure you’re covered at all times.  For instance, most insurance companies won’t accept a claim for stolen tools if your van wasn’t locked at the time.  If you feel the conditions of your insurance are unrealistic, you could try to renegotiate or find a better provider that covers you for what you need.  You can get insurance for around £150 per annum to cover your van and tools up the value of £10,000 – we recommend speaking to a broker such as Biba [https://www.biba.org.uk/] or Simply Business [https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/] who will go over your requirements and put you in touch with the best provider.

If you have the bad luck to be a victim of tool theft, here’s a few things you should consider doing:

• Report your tool theft to the Police straight away, so they can try and track down the thieves: if you have CCTV footage or other evidence they will want to have a record.  This also means you should be notified when they have any updates or if they find any goods that match those you lost.

• Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.  Sometimes insurance companies need to know about the incident within a few days for your claim to be valid, so it’s important to let them know straight away.

• Check out any local second hand tool shops, Cash Converters, local car boot sales and so on – thieves are lazy and don’t often travel far to get rid of their goods.

• Keep an eye on eBay, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and other second hand online selling sites – if you see your tools appear, you can raise a ticket with the customer service team for that site.

• Keep an eye on police updates.  Most county police constabularies use Flickr to post photos of recovered goods – if you recognise anything as your own you can contact the police on 101 to claim it. Google your counties police website to find out how they advertise recovered goods.

• Post images of the tools lost online, on social media such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, and use popular hashtags such as #vantheft #tooltheft #vansecurity #vancrime #stolen to make your post easily searchable.  If people see the tools you have lost they might contact you or report it to the police.  It also makes it very hard for thieves to sell your tools if people can easily recognise them as stolen.

• Don’t feel isolated – there are plenty of people that have joined forces on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to fight back at van thieves – here’s a couple of groups you should consider joining: Tradesmen Against Thieves [https://www.facebook.com/groups/925067357623867/] and Van Security Talk Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/tradesmansvantheftawareness/]

Disclaimer: by linking to other sites within this article we are by no means recommending or sponsoring these sites.  Links to sites are used purely as an illustration and should be treated as such.

It's taken the best part of half-a-century - 40 years since the advent of the Health and Safety at Work Regulations - for construction to get to a place where safety at work is an expectation and a top priority.

But, even though the industry can apply lessons learned from the advances made with safety culture to improve health and wellbeing, it can't afford to take half as long to apply the same zero-tolerance standards to safety's poor relations.

With increasing numbers of construction workers suffering from workplace anxiety and stress, there is a pressing need for an industry-wide mind shift when it comes to mental health issues.

The very nature of the industry is relentless, with everyone working under stress day in day out, largely driven by the pressure of working on small margins i.e. where projects are not making money the pressure on those involved is very high.

And while people can cope generally with short periods of stress, it’s the relentlessness that grinds you down over time.

This coupled with an industry wide perception that if you are not stressed, you are not busy enough, means that being stressed out - anxious or depressed - is the norm in construction.

Another example of this anti-wellbeing culture is that the early start and late finish is still seen as the mark of a good worker. In reality, doing these long days reduces the ability to be productive.

Likewise, in an industry with more than its fair share of lost days through anxiety or depression, no thought is given to how 'motivational' messages such as "mental strength is required to be successful" or "when the going gets tough, the (mental) tough get going," or "safety starts with attitude," might register with those with anxiety or depression.

And then there is the issue and impact of stigma to consider. Mental illness is a taboo subject, something to be embarrassed of instead of a serious medical condition that needs treating as with any other physical illness.

The truth is, employees working in construction need to know that their mental health is just as important to us as their physical wellbeing. The irony is that workplace stresses can have a huge impact on safety.

And while health, mental health and wellbeing are on the radar of HR and occupational health departments, the industry does not always focus on the root cause or trends for that matter. As with safety, risk assessment and management of risk for prevention is paramount.

Lots of training is often given around the root cause or trends of safety risks, but that is not always the case with health, even though it is proven now that anxiety and stress leads to more absences from work than say manual handling problems, for example.

It is important, therefore, that organisations not only give as much focus to the health of employees as they do to their safety, but also view the health and wellbeing of staff on the same priority level as safety policies and procedures.

And it's not just about including weight management, yoga classes, refurbished restrooms, and organising flu jabs and ‘new dad packs’.

Of course, things like that make people feel more valued at work, which is very important, but how employees feel about their company's operation i.e. top-down efforts to foster a more collegial and secure working environment turns out to also be important to health.

Those who think that their workplace deals with employees unfairly are more prone to reporting poor health. That means, to some extent, that managers and executives may be able to help mitigate stress-related health issues, which may lead to happier and healthier workers.

Things like mentorship programs to help in tackling high stress levels for employees and the associated health costs for employers, and efforts to retain employees for significant periods of time might help too, since workers tend to feel more secure and form more supportive social networks when there is some level of consistency within the employee pool.

As an industry, we need to take the issues of workplace stress and mental health seriously. Managers and colleagues must be equipped to identify or manage work-related stress or mental health issues.

Why do I need a CuttingStation SS7?

The best uses for the CuttingStation SS7 are: to keep the work off the floor, reduce noise, reduce dust, reduce trip hazards and maintain a mobile working area for all your cutting on site.

How much does it reduce the noise by?

The tests have shown that the CuttingStation SS7 can reduce noise by up to 20Db for those within close proximity to the saw. It isn’t designed to reduce noise for the operator, but for others working around the operator.

How do I overcome the issue of lifting heavy material up to the height of the CuttingStation SS7 workbench?

An ideal product to assist with this is the PipeRack, this ensures material is kept organised and off the floor, as well as easily transferable to the CuttingStation SS7.

Is it CE marked?

Yes. The CuttingStation SS7 is fully CE marked.

Does the CuttingStation SS7 come with all the electrics and light already installed?

Yes. All electrics and the internal light are installed in the CuttingStation SS7 prior to the unit being delivered.

Is the cabinet in the base of the CuttingStation SS7 lockable?

Yes. The cabinet underneath the workbench is completely lockable using a highly secure locking mechanism.

Does the CuttingStation SS7 come with wheels?

Yes. The CuttingStation SS7 is supplied with wheels in a separate box, ready to be attached on arrival.

Where can I buy a CuttingStation SS7?

We have a network of distributors from whom our products can be purchased. If you need help locating one please contact our sales team on sales@armorgard.co.uk  

Can I trial a CuttingStation SS7 before I purchase one?

We often run site demos of the CuttingStation SS7, please contact us to see if there is a demo coming near to your site soon at sales@armorgard.co.uk

Even though technology for construction has seen a lot of investment over the last few years - from digital records and 3-D imaging systems to smart construction software and drone technology, productivity still eludes the industry.

In fact, construction holds the dubious honour of having the lowest productivity gains of any industry. In the past 20 years, the global average for the value-added per hour has increased by only 1% a year, about one-quarter the rate of growth in manufacturing.

This lack of productivity is caused by several things, including the age-old problem of broken communication, lack of common goals and incentives, fragmented value chains and sub-optimal contracts. The industry has also become less capital-intensive, with cheap workers replacing more expensive machinery.

And then there is the issue of fragmentation. In Europe, there are over three million construction firms with an average of just four workers. Competition is fierce and profit margins are thinner than for any industry except retail. And slim margins make investment even less likely. Often projects have more than a dozen subcontractors, each keen to maximise profit rather than collaborate, or innovate, to contain costs,

Little wonder, then, that many projects are often several times over budget, afflicted with tens of thousands of building errors in need of fixing. Apple’s new headquarters in Silicon Valley, for example, opened two years behind schedule and cost $2bn more than budgeted. Smaller projects have similar woes. One survey of British architects found that 60% of their buildings were late.

The fact that is now possible to build our projects twice - once digitally, and once in the field - to identify and solve issues prior to the start of onsite construction, holds much promise, and more builders could use computer-aided design, as is standard among architects, for example.

Other methods, however, are in earlier stages, but show equal promise, such as remote-controlled cranes and self-driving bulldozers (Komatsu, a Japanese equipment-maker, is developing the latter).

The creation and application of such new technology is critical for long-run productivity growth, particularly as there is clear and robust evidence of a link between R&D spending and productivity.

There is absolutely no doubt at all that technology can help tremendously in helping the industry to be as efficient as possible while minimising errors, although construction companies must first be prepared to change traditional methods and adopt transformative technological developments for current projects, particularly as the industry faces a future filled with complex challenges — health, innovation, productivity, safety, security and talent, to name a few.

Innovators across the industry need to be at the forefront of the discoveries that will not only underpin the productivity of construction projects, but will ensure sustainability, through the accumulation of lower costs, shorter delivery times and reduced environmental impact.

The launch marks Armorgard’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions to help businesses improve safe working practices in the most affordable and effective ways.

The demand for hazardous product storage solutions comes mainly from the requirement to meet Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations in the UK, and a growing trend among businesses to reduce risks and keep employees safe, as well as improving the efficiency of operations.

“We all know about the dangers of failing to comply with COSHH Regulations, but we should also think about the significant benefits of good management of hazardous substances, “said Terry Mitchell, Managing Director of Armorgard.  "At Armorgard, we're constantly looking to deliver storage and logistics solutions that allow businesses to increase workplace safety and productivity.”

FlamStor™ is a secure cabinet designed to keep bulk containers of fuel or oil safe, organised and accessible with specially designed flameproof vents to prevent build-up of fumes.

The DrumCage™ is a robust, transportable unit for both gases and liquids.  The unique design features a fully welded sump storage unit, mesh side and door panels, forklift skids and weatherproof roof.

Both products are ideal for warehousing or any business that stores hazardous goods.

Why FlamStor Cabinet and DrumCage?

Regulations - Implement a system proven to achieve COSHH compliance and meet all hazardous goods storage regulations.

Protect Employees - Your people are your greatest asset. Provide them with best practice hazardous goods storage for their protection.

Manage Risk - Avoid heavy fines for noncompliance and insurance claims. Maintain your company’s reputation.

Save Time - Using our new products allows much quicker and easier identification and management of your hazardous goods compared to outdated storage systems.

Armorgard exhibited at the UK’s one and only NMBS Show for the first time, showing off several of our top products, including the RubbleTruck, the much sought-after TuffBank and the humble OxBox!

There was an excellent turnout, and our stand was mobbed by plenty of old friends and long-standing clients, as well as seeing some new faces that came up to find out more.

Old and new, they all seemed enthusiastic to see a fresh supplier on show and to get to grips with the latest innovations – and they made the most of our experts time to get conclusive and analytical answers to their queries.

Overall an excellent exhibition and we were kept busy right up to the last moment.  Many thanks to all that kept our team busy!

This month we launch another new product XtractaBench, the latest bright idea from the R&D team at Armorgard. The 32^nd new product design since our first new product design over a decade ago, which is some going when you consider our mission - designing outcomes.

You see, we want to make a difference in the world we design for, which means design that matters. And making things that matter involves many facets of design, not the least of which is usability.

Designing for usability considers as many plausible scenarios where a user might have difficulty interacting with the product. As product creators, designers, and developers we have a responsibility to make what we create as easy to use as possible for everyone, ultimately making life easier for our customers.

Sounds like a cliché? Maybe. But the truth is, there are no dumb users, only dumb products.

Our customer's customers, the end users, are also design thinkers, because they find new ways of tackling problems. Sometimes that can mean improvisation i.e. making the best choice out of available alternatives, which is true in any industry, and encourages us to take a divergent approach, to explore new alternatives, new solutions, new ideas that have not existed before.

So, we design for outcomes. We don't necessarily want to make beautiful stuff, although some of our products are aesthetically pleasing, instead we focus on making our customers world - construction sites - a better place, which means healthier, safer and more productive.

During the R&D process, we always pay a lot of attention to the people who are going to use the product. We ask them "Well, what do you want? What's a problem you want to solve?" And for every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and sometimes wrong.

Wrong because of habituation i.e. workplace routines and repetition - "doing it the way we've always done it" - which is not good. The implications of habituation on safety and productivity in the workplace are profound. If it stops us from noticing the problems that are around us, well, that's bad. And if it stops us from noticing and fixing those problems, that is even worse.

As designers, innovators and product engineers, it's our job to not just notice those things, but to go one step further and try to fix them.

Take XtractaBench, for example, a very straightforward, some would say simple, solution to a widespread industry challenge - cutting, drilling or grinding construction materials without risking health and safety.

As product designers, we try to see the world the way it is, not the way we think it is. Why? Because it's easy to solve a problem that almost everyone sees. But it's hard to solve a problem that almost no one sees. 

People have been cutting, drilling or grinding construction materials, on site, for years. And they did it successfully, if not healthily. It was not an obvious problem. But regularly breathing in dust, caused by cutting, drilling or grinding construction materials, particularly in confined spaces, can cause life-changing lung diseases, which can lead to death.

So, when we considered what contractors wanted from a potential product solution to this problem, we had to think long and hard about usability, in terms of how to draw dust and fumes directly away from the working area and how to catch heavier particles, while at the same time allowing the user to do their job - cut, drill and grind stuff.

After several prototypes, consultation with dust experts, and hand tool experts, we came up with the simple, but highly effective, design of a perforated downdraft work surface, a built-in collection hopper and a fold-down external shelf to mount M or H class vacuums for on-tool extraction, which provided a solution to a less critical but equally frustrating problem of how to clean tools when back from hire – a feature that we believe will appeal to our initial customer, hire shops,  in terms of cost efficiency and resourcing i.e. design that matters.

We see our products through the eyes of the customer, but when you're tackling a problem, sometimes, there are a lot of steps that lead up to that problem. Is that the way we've always done it?  Maybe there's a way to do it better.  XtractaBench, for all intents and purposes, is design that is human-centred. 

It may integrate engineering technology, but it starts with what humans need, or might need. What makes life easier, less stressful? What makes a product useful and usable? But that is more than simply good ergonomics. It's often about understanding culture and context before we even know where to start to have ideas.

Another good example of designing outcomes, is the story of the R&D process involved in the design of a new tool storage solution - Forma-Stor - to the growing problem of theft of supplies, materials and plant from building and construction sites.

We wanted to understand what the aspirations and motivations were of construction professionals to understand how they might consider using such a product. Was there a trade-off between peace of mind and unwanted extra work? If the product could not be easily transported, assembled and deconstructed, would we be wasting our time, and their time?

So, thanks to an ingenious lightweight modular design, Forma-Stor comes flat packed, has only a few components and can be assembled on site by two people in less than 10 mins.

Focusing on the needs of humans and by using prototypes to move ideas along quickly, by getting the process out of the hands of designers, and by getting the active participation of end users makes a crucial difference to the design outcome.

We like to believe that design thinking can make a difference, that it can help create new ideas and innovation.

We have enhanced our already extensive range of high quality, safety driven products with the introduction of XtractaBench, an innovative mobile workbench designed to protect building and construction workers from fumes or dust whilst cutting, grinding, drilling, routing, or working with materials such as plasterboard, wood, and metal.

Launched today, XtractaBench will be available nationwide through selected tool hire shops and traditional distribution outlets.

Created following extensive R&D, and with the help of external expert, XtractaBench offers a welcome solution to enable companies to fulfil a legal duty to prevent exposure to substances that can cause health problems as per the Control of Substance Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) act.

Regularly breathing in dust, caused by cutting or grinding construction materials, can cause life-changing lung diseases which can lead to death.

Terry Mitchell, Managing Director of Armorgard said of the new product launch:  "We are very proud to be at the forefront of providing safety solutions like this which prevent devastating and irreversible effects.

“Anyone that is cutting grinding, drilling, routing, working with plasterboard materials on a work surface, particularly in a confined space, is at risk.”

Featuring unique Armorgard design technology, the XtractaBench draws dust and fumes directly away from the working area thanks to a perforated downdraught work surface.

XtractaBench has a built-in collection hopper to catch heavier particles and dust, and a fold-down external shelf to mount M or H class vacuums for on-tool extraction. It is also compatible with most air and dust filtration systems.

Commenting on the benefits of the new product Armorgard R&D Manager Matt Partridge said: “As well as preventing the user from inhaling harmful dust, and reducing dust in the air for those nearby, XtractaBench also provides a solution for hire shops to clean their tools when back from hire – a feature that we believe will appeal to them in terms of cost efficiency and resourcing."

We have almost 30 years’ experience designing products to improve health, safety and security, with a team of in-house designers, engineers, application specialists and researchers specialising to companies across the building, construction and property industries.

Terry Mitchell added: “In our industry, Armorgard has unprecedented expertise and is committed to providing quality products that are fully tested. The XtractaBench has been developed over a considerably long period, with the help of dust experts who have advised on the design, and carries the highest industry standards to ensure our customers have the safest potentially life-saving product.”

Full product details can be found here www.armorgard.co.uk/prod/xtractabench

Tool theft has been around for decades, but in recent years the scale of the theft of tools from tradesmen and business owners has reached epidemic proportions, increasing by as much as 40% since 2016.

Tougher penalties alone aren’t likely to get thieves to stop stealing tools. But, as with drink driving a generation ago, tougher penalties combined with education, peer pressure and technology, for example, will combat the problem.

Of course, harsher sentences for those convicted of tool theft will act as a deterrent for some. The maximum penalty for theft is seven years’ imprisonment, but sentencing is a matter for independent judges, who will consider the circumstances of the offence and any mitigating and aggravating factors, including financial harm and the impact of the theft. And many thieves still choose to take their chance.

The judiciary system is not perfect and investigative options and lines of enquiry often limited and unsuccessful. And even when stolen tools are recovered, often they cannot be returned to their owners because most of the items recovered will have no individual identification marks on them.

On the rare occasion that insurance does pay out ays out the full amount to cover repairs and replacement tools, the delay between making the claim and receiving the pay-out can put tradesmen out of business.

We need to make tools harder to steal and stolen tools harder to sell, and the industry has a lot of room to grow in education, peer pressure and technology.

Some van manufacturers, for example, are designing out vehicle crime at an early stage to make vehicles less susceptible to theft, and tool manufacturers are expanding tool tracking capabilities, although integrating tools from other manufactures remains key and the effectiveness of the technology, as an anti-theft and recovery solution, remains limited

The ultimate in tool tracking is arguably a GPS system with the potential to pick up a signal from anywhere rather than limiting detection to Bluetooth distances, as some current tracking solutions do.

Of course, keeping tools out of sight and locked in a secure storage container in a van that is alarmed and parked in a secure or well-lit area, will deter some thieves, if not all. Though, we need help from other forms of technology to combat tool theft, such as digital technology platforms like eBay, Gumtree and Craigslist.

Criminals look to swiftly sell on equipment they have stolen to gain money and avoid being in a position where they are caught in possession of stolen goods. Many will use these online forums to sell tools at a reduced cash price.

Classifieds websites need more effective reporting systems and need to work more closely with the police and trading standards to make it difficult for stolen tools to move from the hands of thieves into the hands of tradespeople.

This is the vicious circle that can only be broken by collaboration, through the education and encouragement of tradespersons to look out for each other as well as looking out for those 'bargain deals’, which are often a hallmark for stolen goods.

We went there with the intention of raising awareness of Armorgard throughout other countries: we were keen to see if the key decision makers from around the world would see our company as a good fit.  With a lot of positive feedback from buyers throughout the world, we felt that the show was a huge success!

There were 2,770 exhibitors from 58 countries and over 47,000 trade visitors from 143 countries.  We had time to look around a few other stands in the extensive halls of the show, in between the busy program of events, including awards, conferences, trainee days, seminars and more.  Highlights included the two-day Summit with lectures and exhibitors in the scope of the EISEN forum, the Start-up Village as well as the "3D printing - Additive Production" special event.

Suppliers to the construction industry from around the UK donated thousands of pounds worth of tools to an unlucky tradesman who was twice targeted by thieves, both before and after being diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Cheltenham based carpenter Lee Newman had his van emptied of several thousand pounds worth of tools in two overnight heists, and faced another devastating tragedy when he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer whilst still trying to recover from the theft.  

Construction equipment manufacturer Armorgard found out about the thefts online and decided to do their bit to help, launching a #Tools4Lee campaign on social media.

Customers of Armorgard rallied to help the appeal with donations of tools and equipment stockpiled at the firm's headquarters in Fareham, near Portsmouth. 

Tradesman Lee picked up his new tools on the 28^th of February and paid tribute to the generosity of the businesses who helped. "It's amazing having so many people help you when you're at your lowest and you feel so much that's happening is bad," the 54-year-old said. "When something like this happens you feel like you've won the lottery!  I'm so grateful". 

Armorgard Managing Director Terry Mitchell said: "I'm delighted that we were able to help Lee in his fight to get back to work and at the same time hit back at the thieves who did their best to destroy his business.   

"This campaign really highlights the caring and collaborative side of the construction industry and shows how we are all rallying together to try and combat the serious issue of tool theft. It also demonstrates the power of social media to bring businesses together to support a cause.  We're delighted that so many of our suppliers responded to our call to action.”

The expansion into Europe sees Armorgard open a subsidiary in France, its first sales office outside the UK, and a growing network of distributors. 

Armorgard Managing Director Terry Mitchell, said “Armorgard is a truly global brand that is enjoyed by customers all over the world.  It is great news that we’re extending our presence in Europe, an exciting market where there is already an established network of equipment and tool distributors.

“We believe it is the right time for Armorgard to offer the European construction industry our unique range of products, and we envisage a significant distribution network growth programme over the coming years.

“We now have a subsidiary in France, and we look forward to working with our French colleagues to deliver this exciting opportunity."

Armorgard continues to grow in to new markets and forge new dealership relationships, to become the brand of choice for construction equipment and tool suppliers across the world.

“We intend to be for European resellers and customers what we are now for resellers and customers throughout the UK — a single, one-stop source of smart, profitable high value added products that exceed customer expectations in ways that generate long-term repeat business for our partners,” Terry Mitchell said.

"We are actively recruiting distributors in Europe for our product portfolio.  If you want to always stay ahead of the competition in offering the market fresh new thinking, new solutions, new revenue generating business opportunities, we want to meet with you.”

Armorgard is building its launch into Europe around the introduction of its revamped CuttingStation, one of the most visually distinct and robust mobile workstations on the market.

The Executive Hire Show is a trade only show, but that didn’t limit the interest and positive feedback we gained – especially on the new products. And not only did we have two new products on show, but we also had information on three more products that are currently under development, and we came away with some excellent constructive feedback on those.

The RubbleTruck was not left out, with a client telling us that “they’ve changed the way we work” – and other visitors were telling their customers about the other new developments before the show had even finished!

Our New Business Manager, William Stone, says “It’s hard to get our products in front of clients, the reps can’t take them with them to appointments because they’re too big.  Exhibitions like this one gives everyone a chance  to come and look at the products for real – and it works: time and time again, our visitors are blown away with the quality and design of our products.  It’s difficult to get the same response any other way. ”

With the interest and the almost 100% positive feedback we received, we’ll be back next year for sure!  And we’ve already got some new innovations up our sleeve that we’ll be bringing along!

Thank you to all who visited our stand.

As low-tech innovations go, this is a highly effective way of controlling the risks of manual handling, and increasing productivity.

Armorgard, the tools storage and logistics equipment specialist, has introduced its own system for moving test weights on construction sites.

The TriLoad trolley and cage was designed by Armorgard's R&D facility - the team behind other construction equipment innovations such as Rubble Truck, CuttingStation, Forma-Stor and the recently launched XtractaBench. 

Their latest offering is intended to provide construction workers with a "safe and hassle free" way of manoeuvring test weights into locations, such as lift shafts, catwalks and staging for example, offsetting some of the strain on their muscles and joints and making the whole process more efficient.

The TriLoad trolley's robust 3mm steel construction and solid, puncture-resistant wheels are tough enough to take the usual rough treatment on site, and fits most test weight cages on the market. 

Equally, the 20kg cage for the TriLoad, which can hold up to 80kg in weights, is designed to fit most other trolleys and weights from other brands. A 6mm steel plate construction ensures complete integrity and strength, and there is also a large plate at the bottom for ultimate stability. 

"The TriLoad is a good example of how we focus on finding innovative ways to improve health and safety and help workers become more effective at doing their job." said Armorgard Managing Director, Terry Mitchell.

"Manual handling accounts for over a third of all workplace accidents and illnesses, so if we can reduce manual handling risks we not only increase productivity, but also avoid paying for ineffective or unnecessary training.”

Providing a safe environment to cut lengths of steel or timber close to where the work is has previously been a logistical and safety challenge for construction companies, with many contractors still resorting to improvised solutions. 

Armorgard has announced several enhancements to its CuttingStation, one of the most advanced and robust mobile workstations on the market, and a piece of construction equipment that Armorgard R&D Manager Matt Partridge calls “an advanced classic.”

Integral to the redesigned CuttingStation SS7, which replaces the widely popular SS3 version, are substantial and wide-ranging design updates such as an extendable back to cater for carpenters with sliding mitre saws.

"The SS7 is safer, more user-friendly and easier to use than before, which is really saying something," states Armorgard Managing Director Terry Mitchell, who was a member of the team that designed the original CuttingStation SS3 over three years ago. “When we launched the first version, we knew we were onto something, in terms of innovation. The SS3 quickly grew in popularity, and what we have now sets a new standard for on-site safety.”

As part of its continual product improvement research, Armorgard sought end-user input on safety imperatives and design improvements. The original design arguably revolutionised on-site cutting, reducing exposure to noise and dust for everyone in the vicinity, and eliminating any requirement to provide a separate cutting area on site.

The new CuttingStation ticks many safety boxes including the further reduction of worker exposure to dust and noise; reduction of hand-arm-vibration; reduction to risk of back injury; and reduction in risk of injury because of cutting and manual handling.

R&D Manager Matt Partridge says “We’re continuously looking at ways to solve industry problems and improve our products to make lives safer and easier for construction companies and contractors. Developing solutions that increase safety and productivity on site is our design team’s priority, and we’ve achieved that here.”

Unique to the SS7 is an expanding cutting area that allows use of longer saws, and cutaway sides that make it easy to load longer materials from the front. The storage section and protective PVC curtains have also been redesigned to allow easier access and ultimately make the SS7 more user- friendly. The external electricity socket is now recessed to protect it from being knocked or damaged.”

New support arms provide a range of configuration options such as flat, V-shape or roller.  As well as being quick and easy to change to suit the user’s needs, they also support greater weight loads.

Partridge says overall productivity and usability have been improved. The overhead work light has been moved to a better position, and the collector hopper – with dust extractor connection - is now wider to give better waste collection.

“Contractors wanted a superior work area,” Partridge says, adding that the revamped CuttingStation also features chamfered outside corners and re-configured fire-rated, noise-cancelling foam to reduce noise pollution more efficiently. "We are confident that contractors will absolutely love the new design."

The Cutting Station SS7 is now available for order and should be available from distributors by the 9th January.

The Armorgard team set out for our big 2018 launch on the 21^st of December, not quite knowing what to expect or what we were in for. Clues were sent out before the big day, but no one would have guessed the extent of what was before us!

First thing in the morning we were coached to the O2 arena, where we boarded a Thames Clipper and set off on the final Armorgard cruise of 2017!  After a speedy trip up the river we disembarked at Tower Bridge and made our way to the most iconic building in London, The Shard. We had level 34 to ourselves along with some of the most delectable snacks, choice facilities and an awe-inspiring view of the London skyline.

We briefly covered off the successes of 2017, and then each department went through their 2018 strategy including the developments and changes that are going to be implemented through the year, before rounding off with a first class meal.  That over, the next team building event was a London Taxi treasure hunt!  Armed with maps and clues, each team piled in to black cabs and set-off on the time bound challenge, racking up points in a hard-fought competition amidst the busy London traffic!

The teams reassembled back at the Sky Garden (aka The Walkie-Talkie) in time for the Grand Finale where the winners were announced and the day rounded off with a few drinks and hearty cheers to celebrate.

A big thank you to everyone involved, and to our clients for all your support during 2017. We look forward to working together through 2018 and beyond!

Patent Pending*

Our ever-popular Armorgard CuttingStation is a neat, mobile workstation that eliminates the need for a separate cutting room and is essential for safely cutting lengths, such as conduit, timber, cable tray and pipe.

The new SS7 model is now even better! Improvements include new lighting for better distribution of light and chamfered corners to further reduce noise. You’ll also find a new expandable working area to accommodate mitre saws and cutaway sides to ease handling of longer lengths. Improved support arms are now quicker and easier to change between four different configurations.

Cutting lengths in-situ remains a logistical and safety challenge for construction companies - many contractors still resort to improvised solutions with safety and productivity implications. 

Our new CuttingStation SS7 is the most visually distinct and robust, mobile workstation on the market, with a patent pending and European community design registration, further benefits include:

Watch CuttingStation SS7 in action. 

*European Patent Application Number EP17183824.6
*European Community Design Registration Number 004511525

As we run up to the end of a happy and prosperous 2017, we are shocked and saddened to hear the plight of a Cheltenham tradesman - struck by disaster for the third time this year.  A victim of tool theft back in February, Lee Newman had his van emptied of several thousand pounds worth of tools in an overnight heist.  Although insured, the insurance company refused to accept the insurance claim over some small print, leaving Lee to replace the tools out of his own pocket.

Worse still, several months later in August, Lee faced another devastating tragedy whilst still trying to recover from the loss of his tools.  Diagnosed with an incurable cancer, his whole life changed in a moment.  And yet he refused to give up, going back to work as usual to keep himself occupied and active.

Then the unbelievable happened…on the 4^th December, Lee’s van was broken into for the second time and his new tools, worth several thousand pounds, were stolen once more. 

Read the full story at On The Tools

How we're supporting Lee

At Armorgard, we do get to hear some of the stories of tradespeople on the front line battling crime, and we’re painfully aware of the massive increase in equipment theft over recent years.  Although this time of year is traditionally a happy one, not everyone has the opportunity to relax with family and friends and enjoy the break.  Some people are really struggling to support themselves and their families and coping with real hardships.  Lee’s story is heartbreaking, and yet he’s managed to keep going despite the odds. 

We’re going to help Lee fight on and get back on his feet and we'd like others to help too. We're donating one of our most popular secure tool chests to give Lee the best protection against theft.  We’re also reaching out to all tradesmen and anyone else who has been touched by Lee’s story, to ask if they have any spare tools that they can donate – we want to fill Lee’s new TuffBank with tools and equipment so he can get back to work.  We feel it's a great opportunity for the industry to come together and make a real difference.  

How can you help?

Please send or deliver any tools and equipment to us and we will deliver them to Lee when his box is full.  We will post regular photos of the growing contents via On the Tools and our own social media pages, and will publicly acknowledge your donations and support.

Call us on 02392 380280 and ask to speak to Customer Services or email sales@armorgard.co.uk for more information.  If sending or delivering tools please label them #toolsforlee and send to Armorgard Ltd, Unit 14-16 Standard Way, Fareham Industrial Park, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 8XB

Lee’s son, Oliver has set up a Crowdfunding page, and although the target of £1000 has been hit, Lee has lost around £10,000 of tools.  If you'd rather donate cash, please go to Just Giving 

The bi-annual Batimat exhibition is the leading international trade show, lasting for 5 days at a time.  It’s biggest of its kind in Europe and it attracts around 340,000 visitors!

The Armorgard France team were looking to engage with both the end users and potential distributors, and judging by the huge amount of interest shown in our range, our first appearance was a definite success! 

Some of our most popular and unique products were on display: the new style CuttingStation, the Rubble Truck, and the TuffBank.

The products aroused considerable interest, particularly the Rubble Truck, and the feedback we received indicated that they were the solutions that people were looking for!

 And if that wasn’t enough, we also revealed an exclusive sneak peek of the prototype instructa hut™ which will be hitting the road soon. 

That’s not the only thing that will be on the road either – one of the lucky visitors to our stand will be having the time of their life after winning a fantastic white knuckle driving experience. 

We’re proud to say that the forma-stor – one of the Speedy Star Products -  generated a lot of interest.

The cuttingstation™ also created a “buzz” with its new features and modern design! 

One of our contributors paid the ultimate compliment by saying: 

“As always you are setting the bar rather than reaching for it!”

It was great to see all the visitors – there were lots of familiar faces, some new ones too.

A big thank you to everyone who came and showed their support!

Just opened in November 2016, the Rowans Living Well Centre is a brand new facility built to provide a relaxed and safe environment for people affected by life-limiting illnesses.  It’s an amazing new environment to support the community – Ruth White, the chief executive states that it will “provide a haven to those needing advice, support and help”.

The Rowans hospice staff kindly gave a team of 6 Armorgard volunteers the opportunity to work at the Hospice to help improve the conditions further.  The Armorgard team worked hard to clear and prepare the outside areas for new wood chipping around the Rowans Living well centre.  This went towards enabling the staff at the hospice to receive much needed support to provide a peaceful and tranquil external area for their patients. 

A rewarding and enjoyable experience was had by all.

Armorgard continue to go from strength to strength, as we relocate our premises to a brand new state-of-the-art offices alongside our central distribution warehouse.

We now have even larger stock level, a more efficient assembly line, as well as improved services for you. 

Come along for a coffee and a tour of our stunning new workspace!

Visit us at; Unit 14 16 Fareham Industrial Park, Standard Way, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 8XB.

On The Tools are known for finding the latest funny photos and videos in the construction industry, and they rarely fail at their mission to put a smile on your face!

We're hoping they will dig up some Armorgard related news to find out what really happens to our products once they're on site. 

We want to see if our products really do work as hard as their owners!

Keep an eye for updates on our Facebook page. 

Carrying 5000 crew on-board, it’s an impressive example of American engineering, and it’s nice to see it’s been painted grey to match the TuffBank! This large vessel is the same length as 340 TuffBank TB1’s, and you could fit 16,800 CuttingStation’s on its flight deck!

We enjoy studying other leading companies and what makes them so buoyant and dominant in the market, so we were keen to get inspiration from this aircraft carrier, a market leader in the navies of the world, as well as take the chance to reward the team for the huge successes of 2017 so far.

After a 45 minute knuckle-whitening ride, we had cleared some cobwebs out and discovered a few lessons to take back to our workplace;

We discovered what it is ‘ride the waves’ - even when the waves in the market may appear to be a little turbulent

When the power is reduced, you feel every wave, get wetter and increase your likelihood of succumbing to the swelling ocean

A power boat gets you to the ‘blue water’ much quicker and allows you to introduce new and fun products and services quicker than if you are just sailing with the wind

You get wet along the way, but just hold on, breathe deeply, stay calm, enjoy the ride, stay on course and power through – you’ll get to your destination!

The team go with the boat – if more power is applied and the boat goes faster, the team go with it – whereas if the boat sinks, the whole team sinks – it demonstrates the importance of teamwork and working together

Look out for landmarks along the way, it helps you to see how well you are progressing on your journey

There’s no stopping us now – we’re on a mission to make some waves! 

Receive a FREE Makita LC1230 cut-off saw with every cuttingstation™ ordered between 24^th July and 31^st August 2017. Claim yours today while stocks last!

The armorgard cuttingstation™ is a unique purpose-built work station for cutting lengths of metal, such as conduit, cable tray and pipe. Integral health and safety features include fire-rated sound deadening foam to reduce noise pollution, and PVC screens to contain and protect from sparks. The chop saw is positioned on a rubber mat to reduce vibration, while the innovative design allows the chop saw to be positioned at a safe working height, minimising risk of accident or injury.

Click here to view the T&C's of this promotion.

The sharp rise of tool theft is widespread and a real concern for the trades’ person, vehicle operators and commercial vehicle body builders. Tools stolen from a vehicle are not only a cause of inconvenience. You have the cost of replacement and, most importantly, the potentially severe damage to the vehicle and additional cost in downtime. There is a simple solution. A secure ‘vault’ where you can lock away anything that is valuable, easily fitted and offering complete peace of mind.

Armorgard is a company that focuses on providing the best solutions to solving the issues of tool theft, and they pride themselves on the strength of the products. TuffBank is their best-selling secure site storage solution which sets industry benchmarks in quality. Heavy-duty steel plate construction and the anti-jemmy technology is virtually impregnable and designed to foil even the hardest of attacks. We are the best people to come to for a solution because of our product knowledge, the choice of products and the sheer volume of stock available. This is borne out with the popularity of TuffBank tool vaults, an industry benchmark in quality and yet outstanding value for money. 

The TuffBank TB1 van box, TB12 and TB6 truck boxes are the frequent choice for commercial vans and drop-side trucks. Features include keyed alike 5-lever deadlocks, heavy duty Chubb style keys, unique external and internal anti-jemmy systems, welded security ID numbers and 6mm reinforcement. Thieves want their spoils quick and easy. Confronted with TuffBank they face a heavy-duty deterrent.

TuffBank is unique in design, crafted by our own engineers and we pride ourselves on their friendly, knowledgeable staff to give you an outstanding service. The industry recognises us as the best in the market and when it comes to security storage it’s part of our lifestyle. We literally tick every box.

Visit us on Stand 106 on 27th of April at Silverstone Circuit, Northamptonshire.

Come along and speak to our friendly team who will be there to offer you specialist advice on all our top products.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Armorgard are looking forward to welcoming you to our stand 5J86 at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC on 25-27 April 2017.

Tool theft and vehicle break-in is ever increasing, with 98% of trades people fearing personal tool theft. Don't risk it, come and browse our range of products available for locking away tools and valuables. Our friendly team will be there with our fantastic range on in-vehicle products to help you find the best product for you. 

We’re very excited about the prospects of this exhibition and we look forward to meeting you.

Reached the top 10 stands out of 190 stands, and the Rubble Truck was 3^rd in the Innovation Trail out of 36 entries!

It was a great opportunity to network with all our existing customers meet lots of new clients.

Thank you everyone for your support. 

Green building will continue to influence the global construction industry. Governments worldwide are implementing legislation ensuring new built structures will be constructed using eco-friendly materials and techniques.

Drones - rise of the robots. A single unit allows for  quick and easy 3D mapping without potential danger to workers. Drones relay data, video and results in real time, allowing for more efficient and effective woksite.

BIM - Building Information Modelling which allows for picture perfect 3D computer designing of building. It allows architectural designs to be modelled with specific building systems already in place. Any system clashes can be identified and solved before foundation have even been poured. Construction can be done to a higher standard, quickly, safely and cheaply thanks to this software. 

Increased demand for modular housing. Homes built using pre-fabricated elements will be the way forward. Modular homes offer customers and developers some strong selling points. They are cheaper to build and buy than traditional housing units. They also enjoy shorter build times.

The next twelve months could prove to be very interesting. We are looking forward to it!

We will be showcasing our innovative products guaranteed to make life on-site safer and more secure!

We look forward to seeing you with a chance to win some prizes off the stand!

The 22^nd December 2016 was a breath-taking day for the team at Armorgard.

We ventured out into the depths of The Solent and boarded No Man’s Fort, a converted military fort positioned in The Solent, which is now used as a hotel for overnight stay and corporate entertainment.

As well as it being a launch for our 2017 strategy, it was a great team building day with many activities including a tour of the fort, treasure hunt, laser quest, and a corporate meal for all the team.

We'd like to thank all our clients for such a great 2016 as we look forward to working with you through 2017 and into Armorgard’s exciting future.

A few photos below for you to enjoy!

A morning stroll through Gunwarf Quays, a bit early for any shopping so we headed straight for the quayside.

All aboard for...?

Spinnaker rising through the thick fog, it's clear out at sea though!

No Man's Fort, pretty much taken over by Armorgard for the day!

The hoist, ready to lift the next person up!

All set for the 2017 launch

Networking and congratulating on personal achievements!

For some... the most important part of the day!

Guinea Fowl Terrine. Pickled Red Cabbage, Orange & Walnuts

Sirloin Of Beef. Celeriac Puree, Shallot Marmalade, Smoked Potatoes & Bordelaise Sauce

Crème Brulee. Blueberries, Cinnamon & Ginger Cookie

A guided tour that was more than just a guided tour...!

It's not often that you're asked to shoot your colleagues, but laser quest brings out the true fighting spirit within the team.

We'd like to pay a special Thank You to Solent Forts for being excellent hosts of Armorgard's 2017 Strategy Launch - we'd recommend it to anyone wanting to 'get away from it all' - quite literally!

Construction workers are at the high risk of contracting lung disease from the work that they do. Thousands will die from cancer caused by past exposures to asbestos and silica dust. Thousands will be diagnosed with occupational cancer. 

Breathe Freely is a collaborative initiative led by BOHS in partnership with key organisations within the construction industry. 

It will provide guidance, tools and resources that facilitate the recognition, evaluation and control of workplace exposures leading to the implementation of a recognised management standard. 

Armorgard is proud to be a strong supporter of the Breathe Freely campaign.

We wish you a prosperous New Year and we look forward to seeing you in 2017!

Christmas closing times

Our offices will officially be closed from 16:30 on the 21st December through to 06:30 on the 3rd January.

please note the last day to order Armorgard products for delivery before Christmas is 15:00 on the 20th December.

ABP's chairman, commented: "These major investments are a vote of confidence to the UK and London market following Brexit vote"

Construction work will start early next year and plan on creating 845 new homes.

Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: "It is expected to create 20,000 full-time jobs, which is great news for the people of Newham"

Innovative brick laying robot capable of putting down 1000 bricks per hour. 

The Hadrian X is an advanced on its previous model, laying 225 bricks per hour. It features a 30 meter boom for maximum efficiency, using bricks 15 times larger than industry standard, thus creating a stronger, more robust structure. 

Click here to read the full article...

Lead by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP as well as Birmingham City Council, the new investment plan has promised to be bold and exciting. Examples include Curzon Promenade, Curzon Square and an incorporation of original Curzon Station, a Grade I listed building. 

Prime Minister Theresa May said: “I’m delighted that Greater Birmingham is making this investment in the future, working to maximise the potential of HS2 by investing in jobs and housing – and encouraging more business investment. It was in Birmingham where I outlined my plan to build an economy that works for all, with a proper industrial strategy that delivers prosperity, job creation and higher wages across the country, not just in London."

The ‘Sky Pool’ will link two residential buildings at the 10^th floor and allow residents to swim from one building to the other.

The pool is entirely transparent and structure free, 25m long, 5m wide and 3m deep with a water depth of 1.2m.

Designed by Arup Associates, with specialist input from Eckersley O’Callaghan and aquarium designers Reynolds, the pool will have glass that is 20 cm thick.

Sean Mulryan, Chairman and CEO of developer Ballymore Group has been the driving force behind the pool.

Ballymore and partners Eco World are developing the second phase as Eco World Ballymore.

The buildings that the pool link are part of the second phase of the development which will be released to market in September, soon after the first residents have started to move in following the completion of phase one.

Claire has been at Armorgard on a Career Advancement Program from Focus Learning Trust Wilton Campus and has now completed her hours of work in the office. She has been working on a variety of tasks to develop her skills and gain a better understanding of the business environment.

She has kindly made a cake for Armorgard staff to show her appreciation.

Thanks Claire, very kind!

P.S. The cake was very tasty. 

At Armorgard we’re passionate about the world we live in and strongly believe in supporting the local community and charities in view strengthening the great work that they do. Our current chosen charity to support is Help for Heroes who provide direct, practical support for wounded, injured and sick Service Personnel, Veterans ('the blokes') and their loved ones.

"I used to think H4H saved my life...now I know they gave me the tools to save myself"

Veteran      

However large or small, help us to change the world for the better by donating on our JustGiving page.

Thank you. 

Beamkart - designed for the effortless transportation of beams and steels, it is an essential for the everyday movement of heavy and bulky items. 

Rubble Truck - designed for maximum performance and efficiency. It pulls on an array of unique features to create an indispensable multi-purpose onsite companion.

Sack Truck - designed to move things from A to B, safely, effortlessly and quickly. Built to last, Sack Trucks meet all the rigorous demands of the industry.

Turntable Truck - features large, puncture proof solid rubber wheels, a raised heavy duty deck for ground clearance and easy loading and a precision steering mechanism for easy manoeuvring. 

Don't forget to check out the rest of the Armorgard products!

At Armorgard we're all about strong relationships. That is why we are extremely happy to announce the launch of our new social media channels.

So be sure you don't miss out on our updates and latest news and start folowing Armorgard today!

A survey was carried out with various sized contractors to uncover what the 10 most stolen items were from construction sites during 2015, and power tools topped the list.

1. Power tools

2. Bags of cement

3. Ladders

4. Plant machinery

5. Wheelbarrows

6. Building materials and other supplies

7. Cable

8. Metals

9. Personal items – radios, phones, cash

10. Hand tools

We at Armorgard exist to help drive down these theft rates. Every item from the above list can be stored and protected by an Armorgard product. We design and engineer our products so that they work hard for you, making your life easier.

Contact us now on 02392 380280 to help beat these rising theft rates.

The newest edition to the ever popular oxbox family has all the qualities of its bigger brothers! Tough enough to withstand any workplace and packed with fantastic features, it's sure to be a firm favourite on the job.

Don't forget to check out the rest of the oxbox family!

Does your fleet look a bit tired?

Armorgard are offering a time limited trade-in scheme for you to recycle your old products for new!

Any brand, any age, any condition can be traded in for a 'like for like' Armorgard product.

Call us now on 023 9238 0280 to take advantage of this simple and quick recycle scheme.

* T&C's apply, offer ends 31st July 2016

Armorgard are looking forward to welcoming you to our stand 4J16 at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC on 26-28 April 2016.

We will be showcasing our unique and extensive range of in-vehicle storage solutions for locking away tools, equipment and hazardous goods. 

Products featuring at the show...

We’re very excited about the prospects of this exhibition and we look forward to meeting you.

An improved design fittingstor, evolved from customer feedback. The FC2, FC3 and FC4 are now all fitted with recessed handles so as to make manoeuvering easier on site, without the risk of the handles damaging walls and surroundings. The fixed shelf brackets in the FC2, FC3 and FC4 reduces the risk of losing the shelf brackets and increases the rigidity of each shelf. 

The FC6 is a new product added to the fittingstor range, which is a mesh cage on wheels, designed to act as a "main store" for fittings and fixings with the added functionality delivering fixings to individual contractors. Built from mesh for improved visibility of the contents. 

Click here to view all new fittingstor range.

Spend over £1000 on any armorgard order throughout March and receive a FREE tuffbench+. 

Claim yours today using offer code MAR16.

tuffbench+

The tuffbench+ is a new and improved tuffbench with added optional extras. Stronger more robust legs and increased steel thickness is what strengthens the product, but the real value comes from the new addition of the handle and wheels, making it easier to manoeuvre the product, particularly when vices are attached.

Note: vice attachement is not included.

Click here to view the Terms and Conditions of this promotion.

The feedback from our clients is consistently positive, as we reveal where we're heading and how we intend to get there... some pictures below, but we'd love you to see your smiling face on our stand, B3!

There is more than one thing that sets us apart, we have 7 key reasons why we’re leading the market through our product innovation and customer service.

Every dealing you have with Armorgard comes with XTRA. It’s not optional, it’s part of our culture and comes FREE with every order - we supply the best products backed with the best service, encased in XTRA.

Take advantage of XTRA, speak to our expert team on 02392 380280 or browse our full range. 

With great plans in place for 2016, we've started 2016 by launching our brand new website, all designed to be more user friendly for you.

Find a distributor, product registration, product navigator and quote request among just a few of the new features available on the site.

We've designed our Website to be user friendly, with the new mobile compatible function, allowing you to easily find what you need no matter your browsing device!

Along with that we have opened a brand new 'Knowledge Centre' giving you access to a scope of tools and media such as videos, FAQ's and useful downloads.

Browse around and tell us what you think... marketing@armorgard.co.uk 

At Armorgard we’re passionate about the world we live in and strongly believe in supporting the local community and charities in view strengthening the great work that they do.

Our current chosen charity to support is Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance which exists to bring immediate, life-saving critical care to patients when they need it it most.

The Air Ambulance flies 365 days a year, both day and night, providing and efficient response to road traffic collisions, sporting accidents, collapses and many other incidents thoughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

P.S. Armorgard donated £301.95 to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

To celebrate our successes, and to launch our plan for 2016, we rewarded all staff with a day out in London on Wednesday 23^rd December.

Starting the day on level 29 at Millbank tower, we had our 2016 corporate launch with some breath-taking views of London.

We then made our way across to East London, viewing the city from a different perspective on the Emirates Airline cable cars.

After having lunch at the O2 arena we climbed to the highest viewing deck in Europe, The Shard. Having delivered many of our products to The Shard, on behalf of our distributors, during the construction stage, it was incredible to visit the iconic landmark in London.

The volume of tower cranes and construction is awe inspiring for everyone at Armorgard and we look forward to working with you again in 2016.

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES

Our offices will officially be closed from 16:30pm on the 22nd December through to 07:00am on the 4th January!

PLEASE NOTE: The last day to order Armorgard products for delivery before Christmas is 3:00pm on the 22^nd December.

Receive a FREE Makita LC1230 cut-off saw with every cuttingstation™ ordered throughout October. Claim yours today while stocks last.

The armorgard cuttingstation™ is a unique purpose-built work station for cutting lengths of metal, such as conduit, cable tray and pipe. Integral health and safety features include fire-rated sound deadening foam to reduce noise pollution, and PVC screens to contain and protect from sparks. The chop saw is positioned on a rubber mat to reduce vibration, while the innovative design allows the chop saw to be positioned at a safe working height, minimising risk of accident or injury.

Click here to view the Terms and Conditions of this promotion
 

Call now to discuss further on 02392 380280

LoadAll™ LA750

Transporting large sheets of board has never been easier. Specially designed for storing and transporting plasterboard and other large-sheet materials, LoadAll™ LA750 is the only trolley of its kind on the UK market that is easy to manoeuvre through doorways and turn the corner at the same time when loaded up with material, all because of its unique design. The LA750 has an SWL capacity of 750kg.

LoadAll™ LA1000

Save space, ease handling and protect your materials from damage using Armorgard’s LoadAll™ LA1000. Whether in the yard, on the delivery truck or on site, transporting large sheets of board has never been easier. Specially designed for storing and transporting plasterboard and other large-sheet materials, LoadAll™ LA1000 is the only trolley of its kind on the UK market that can be folded down and stacked when not in use – and with no detachable parts to lose! The LA1000 has an SWL capacity of 1 tonne.

LoadAll™ LA1500

The new addition to the LoadAll range is the LA1500 – the LoadAll with the highest Safe Working Load (SWL) currently in the range. This robust material handling trolley is fully welded and heavy-duty construction, complete with all swivel 200mm diameter wheels to make manoeuvring easy. Easy grab handles improve the functionality of the unit, along with the quick and easy clamping system to secure boards whilst in transit. This user friendly material handling trolley has an SWL capacity of 1.5 tonne.

Call now on 02392 380280 to discuss the LoadAll promotion and claim your Free Wine Hamper

Here at Armorgard we are pleased to introduce three new innovative products:

V-Kart - for easy manoeuvring of pipe, steel and other lengths of materials.

Loadall – for stress-free transportation and storage of large sheets of board.

FittingStor – for innovative storing in narrow spaces.

No competing products come even close in terms of unique design, distinctive safety features and of course quality and durability. We are certain that the new Armorgard products will make your job easier, significantly safer and more enjoyable.

Within the Armorgard portfolio, we have 3 ranges of site boxes – one for every budget. At one end, OxBox™ offers dependable, cost-effective security, whilst at the other end of the scale, the StrongBank™ is the absolute ultimate on the market. However, the market leading TuffBank™ wins hands down as being the biggest seller into the tool hire market.

Built to a rigorous specification, TuffBank™ sets the industry benchmark in quality while also delivering outstanding value for money. Its heavy duty steel plate construction and unique Armorgard anti-jemmy technology mean that it is virtually impregnable to all but the most sophisticated thief. Available in 8 versatile sizes, this popular multipurpose tool vault offers the perfect balance between cost and best-in-class performance.

Also available are replacement parts including locks and keys. Castors can be added quickly and easily using the quick fix kit, making your TuffBank™ mobile.

Call 02392 380280 now to discuss how you can do more business with Armorgard.

At Armorgard we’re passionate about the world we live in and strongly believe in supporting the local community and charities in view strengthening the great work that they do.

Our current chosen charity to support is Families of Ocean Ward - Southampton's Paediatric Cardiac Unit based at Southampton General Hospital.

Families of Ocean Ward mission is to provide emotional and financial support to families making use of the facilities on Ocean Ward.  

However large or small, help us to “change the world” by donating on our JustGiving page.

P.S. Armorgard team donated £529.02 to Families of Ocean Ward.

The Armorgard CuttingStation™ is a unique purpose-built work station for cutting lengths of metal, such as conduit, cable tray and pipe. Integral health and safety features include fire-rated sound deadening foam to reduce noise pollution, and PVC screens to contain and protect from sparks. The chop saw is positioned on a rubber mat to reduce vibration, while the innovative design allows the chop saw to be positioned at a safe working height, minimising risk of accident or injury.

Call us today on 023 9238 0280 to discuss how the CuttingStation can benefit you

At Armorgard we’re passionate about the world we live in and strongly believe in supporting the local community and charities in view strengthening the great work that they do. Our current chosen charity to support is BSFA (Building Schools For Africa) who help to improve the buildings and facilities for schools in developing areas of Africa.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” Nelson Mandela

However large or small, help us to “change the world” by donating on our JustGiving page.

P.S. Armorgard team donated £263.58 to BSFA.

At the Executive Hire Show at the Ricoh Arena on 11th and 12th February; the exhibition where Passionate Hirers meet Innovative Suppliers.

Are you tough enough to take the Armorgard challenge?

Test your dart throwing skills, and you could potentially be the lucky winner of £100! With some exciting new products to showcase, and a brand new catalogue for you to take away, this is a thrilling time for the team at Armorgard. We look forward to welcoming you on to our stand (B3) and sharing some of our masterpieces.

A new brand to lead the industry…

…Armorgard, We’re leading the way with our new branding, so we trust you’re enjoying the ride!

For many years now, we have set the benchmark with our unrivalled service and reliable quality of product, and it has always been our intention to be the best at what we do, so our

 stunning new branding is to reflect our market leading position.

A new approach to site storage

We look at things from a different angle, that’s how we get our continual supply of fresh product ideas. Working with those that are on the tools, we develop our products so that they perform harder.

From our high stock levels for immediate delivery through to our product development team continually innovating and developing our products, everything is focused to make life
easier for those on the tools.

A new range of exclusive products

All of our products are exclusive to us. We design all of our own products, taking product concepts from the initial idea right through to the product launch.

We work around the clock and have a team dedicated to looking at new products – so send in your ideas to marketing@a-sp.co.uk

We’re in business to make life easier for those on the tools, and we do this by creating products and relationships that are built to last. We want our products to endure, and work hard throughout the entire duration of its life, so that’s how we build them.

Continual development is part of our culture and we’re always looking at ways we can improve our product range and better our service to our customers. After working closely with a variety of users of our equipment, we have developed more products to assist in improving working efficiency.

Some of these new products will be officially launched over the coming month, but we’re going to let you in to one of our secrets and give you a sneak preview!

More detailed information will be available later in November in order to assist you in selling these new products, so keep your eyes peeled!

We’ve have just spent an entire week taking new photographs of all our products. We wanted to refresh our image bank, so that all product images are show the new branding, so we set to and spent a solid week, firing shots at our products!

The photography has worked out well, and we are really pleased with the result. Soon we will be able to update our distributors with these new product images for their own marketing purposes.

We will be re-designing our own website later in the year to reflect our new brand image, and this will include all the new product imagery.

We’re living in exciting times at Armorgard, a great surge forward in every department, is bringing about a really exhilarating atmosphere.

We hope you’re enjoying the branding too.

Still the same great products, same superior quality, and the same level of outstanding service, but now packaged up in a stunning new look. At Armorgard we’ve kept the important things the same, but added some exciting new ones too.

Our products are built to ‘take the knock’. With 25 years in the industry we have designed and established products that are built to endure and guaranteed to perform, reinforced with a well-built brand, identified for strength and reliability.

We know our products and customer service are of the highest levels of quality, however, at Armorgard we believe in constantly striving to improve. To this end, we have recently taken our brand to the next level by refreshing the entire look of the company, helping to advance the business forward to new heights.

Download the overview on our new branding.

A £228m college is being constructed in the centre of Glasgow, on the banks of the River Clyde. The completed project will see a state-of-the-art college, realising its educational vision and provide the learning community with stunning facilities.

The project started in 2013 and is scheduled for completion in summer 2017. The 70,000² metre development is split over two sites, the Campus Site and the Riverside Site. The new facilities will accommodate 40,000 students and 1200 staff, and have been designed to support learning and create an inspirational environment for educating the oncoming generations. Wireless networks will permeate each area, from the small library spaces to the depths of the surrounding landscapes, allowing students to stay connected, wherever they are in the grounds of the college.

The potential usage for Armorgard products on this construction site is huge. Join us in our mission to make life easier for those on the tools.

A unique piece of equipment, the LoadAll saves space, time and energy in every application.

It is a unique tool, designed for storing and transporting plasterboard and other large sheets of materials, and is the first on the UK market which can be folded down and stacked when not in use.

The LoadAll has been specifically designed with a centre A-frame; this means that when it is loaded with plasterboard, all the weight is leaning into the centre, which makes it a great deal sturdier than the traditional design. It is fast and simple to erect and can be up and running in as little as 13 seconds! The unique design of this unit, combined with the heavy-duty 6 inch castors, makes it nearly impossible to overturn. Even though this is a folding unit, there are no detachable parts. This prevents anything from being lost and will save money and time.

This unit has been weight load tested to carry up to one tonne, and a certificate of conformity can be provided, to prove the Safe Working Load (SWL). The Armorgard LoadAll can carry up to 24 sheets of plasterboard, in comparison to other alternatives on the market, which only carry an average of 15 sheets. This means that the Armorgard LoadAll can carry up to 60% more plasterboard, than other alternative products.

In summary, the LoadAll is;

• Folding
• Stackable
• Has no detachable parts
• Certified to carry up to One Tonne

A lot of time has been spent to make sure this works best for the user of the product. Please give us a call on 023 9238 0280, to discuss how you can sell this item to your customers.

Armorgard recently exhibited at the Executive Hire Show in the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, on 12th and 13th February 2014.

Being a show for innovative suppliers to meet with passionate hirers, it was of highest importance for Armorgard to attend.

Among the products that we were demonstrating at the show were the LoadAll, TuffBench, TuffBank, OxBox and Gorilla Gas Cage, not to mention the FREE promotional gifts that we were handing out!

The Armorgard LoadAll is a brand new product, a folding trolley for storing and transporting plasterboard and other large sheets of materials around site. The LoadAll is folding, stackable, has no detachable parts, and comes complete with a Safe Working Load (SWL) capacity of up to One Tonne. The LoadAll is more than just a plasterboard trolley; it is a unique tool used for stowing and manoeuvring plasterboard and other materials around site.

The Armorgard LoadAll was shortlisted on the Innovation Trail at the show. The Innovation Trail is a short list of ten products that are selected as being innovative and of interest to hire companies. Although not the ultimate winner on the Innovation Trail, the LoadAll did generate a lot of positive interest from customers and potential customers.

Overall, the Executive Hire Show was a great success for Armorgard, and we look forward to working with tool hire companies all the more throughout the year.

In recent weeks, the government has given the final ‘green light’ for Hinkley Point to become the home of Britain’s first nuclear power station for a generation.

The energy giants EDF, along with significant financial backing from China, are heading up the finances for the huge £16bn price tag which the nuclear power station project boasts.

Laing O’Rourke has secured a joint venture with Bouygues to become the main contractors on the development, capturing a £2bn civils contract. Laing O’Rourke Chief Executive Anna Stewart, has described the Hinkley Point C project as a “pivotal moment for the UK construction industry.” It has also been said, “Hinkley Point C will open up a myriad of opportunities for employment, new skills, training and engagement with the supply chain across the UK, especially in the South West of England.”

The launching of this major development, which has been scheduled to open in 10 years’ time, has revealed some spectacular statistics. During construction it will employ a total of 25,000 people, with 5,500 at its peak stage. Once the project is complete, the UK’s energy network will reap the hard earned benefits. For example, the Hinkley Point C’s 430 acre site, will generate 26TWh (terrawatt hours) per year, which is enough to power 6 million homes. In comparison, this would take 130,000 acres of solar farms or around 250,000 acres of onshore wind farms to generate that volume of energy. The diagram below illustrates some more remarkable facts and figures as a result of the government’s approval.

The numerous contractors been picked for this project are awaiting in anticipation for the Final Investment Decision to be announced by EDF, so they can establish and mobilise site teams for the commencement of work on the ‘best-paid site in the UK.’

This project is opening up a massive window of opportunity for Armorgard products. With our wide product range spanning from secure tool storage, compliant hazardous storage, and materials handling, the Armorgard team anticipate working with our distributors to provide numerous solutions throughout each stage of the construction process. 

The new design Gorilla Gas Cages are a heavy-duty construction and boast many features and benefits to make them market leaders and a brand you must have in your range. The following points are what distinguish the brand and make the cages ‘something a little different!’

• Constructed from 30mm box section for total rigidity 
• Panels made from 3mm fully welded wire mesh for toughness 
• Hinged door with padlock point for security 
• Facilities to fix cages to the ground, giving them extra security and stability 
• Relevant signage attached to comply with legislations for the storage of gas cylinders 
• Galvanised finish for ultimate durability and protection from the elements 
• Modular system – make your own size gas cage! 

The Gorilla Gas Cage range is supplied flat pack, comes complete with all the relevant fixings and is a bolt together style, making it quick and easy to erect. Also supplied, is an instruction manual to assist in making up the cages.

Recently, Health and safety have intensified their concern on the storage of gas cylinders. This is because, the consequences of a cylinder exploding when it’s not stored properly are phenomenal and have taken lives. Therefore, as winter draws in, the use of gas increases and with that, so does the demand for gas storage. With a unique range of gas cages being introduced to the market, now is an excellent time for you to take advantage of the Gorilla Gas Cage range which Armorgard has to offer – the window of opportune sales is wide open!

The new development will consist of two major buildings, one 18-storey and another 14-storey, compromising spectacular rooftop gardens, which deliver excellent views over St Paul’s and London City. Over half the site will be given to open space, which includes a variety of links through to new gardens and access to a range of historic monuments, such as the church walls and the remains of St Alphage Church Tower. London Wall Place is expected to become one of London’s great city landmarks, with the unique internal and external design, and prominent features, it will stand out as a distinctive piece of city architecture.

The building is set for completion in 2014, being ready for full occupation mid-2015. The new development at London Wall Place is welcomed by many, as it transforms the desolate building into a vibrant new working area.

Armorgard are looking forward to working with our distributors and maximising the use of Armorgard products on this construction site, with the greatest potential for some of our material handling products and also the standard site boxes and other tool and equipment storage. Get in touch if you are supplying contractors on this site.

We have produced a NEW video, showing you why so many customers depend on the versatility of the Armorgard TuffBank range. It isn’t easy to explain in words, so we thought that we would show you the TuffBank ‘in action’ helping to explain why it performs so well, and why there are so many users demanding for the Armorgard TuffBank range.

Check out the video and full details of the TuffBank range or contact us to help you in selling more of the TuffBank range.

Construction has recently started on the £650 million Airport City development, in Manchester, a 10 to 15 year construction project, designed to completely transform the area around Manchester Airport.

Global air travel is changing, with people wanting airports to be destinations, rather than just a gateway to travel; they are becoming more of an economic hub where people work, live and play, globally known as ‘Airport Cities’. Manchester is the only regional airport in the UK which has the existing potential to develop into an Airport City, with the unique combination of location, land, connectivity and infrastructure.

The new Airport City in Manchester will serve global markets and become an international business destination and transport hub, where businesses from around the world can come together to share knowledge and do business. The Airport City will be constructed in different stages over the next 15 years, costing a total of £650 million. Once completed, Airport City will provide;

• 1.4 million square feet of logistics and warehousing
• 1.5 million square feet of offices
• 650,000 square feet of advanced manufacturing
• Approximately 2,400 hotel beds
• 100,000 square feet of ancillary retail
• 13 acre recreation park

The Airport City is going to be a life changing environment for Manchester, creating 11,400 new permanent jobs, giving a real boost to the local and national economy.

Carillion have won the bid to develop the Airport City project, and there lies some huge opportunities for hire companies and contractor suppliers to gain business from this internationally focused project.

The complete project will be approaching 1 million square feet, consisting of offices, retail, residential and public amenity space. There will be 3 new buildings, and extensive modifications will be made to existing buildings to transform and bring fresh life into the area.

Mace has been appointed as the main contractor to deliver the £770 million project, which is soon to commence building, with a scheduled completion date for phase one in 2016, and completion of phase two in 2018.

115 million people pass through the transport hub at Victoria every year, making it one of the busiest transport interchanges in London. Due to its proximity to key transport links, the Victoria Circle is a very complex project. However, Mace is confident that they can deliver this extensive development for London.

Armorgard look forward to working with distributors to supply products to assist during the construction of this major project, helping it to be a safer and more efficient working environment for contractors.

The Place will be a ground breaking new home for many businesses, with 428,000 square feet of large, airy offices, spread over 17 levels, this is truly an inspirational building for London.

Positioned next to The Shard, it is often referred to as the ‘baby shard’! The two buildings stand loud and clear in forming a strong and compelling corporate statement for London’s newest commercial quarter. Despite being shorter than The Shard, The Place has its own architectural challenges, such as the cantilever structure of the building, which will require a 2.4m diameter pile, one of the largest of its type in London.

As part of the London Bridge Quarter project, the London Bridge Station is being transformed. With direct access to 61 underground stations, over 54 million people pass through London Bridge Station each year. The renovated station is leading the way with the standard of international transport. Amongst some of the elevating improvements is a new glass roof over the train concourse, enhanced retail and new ticketing barriers, all which establish a greatly improved customer experience.

Armorgard have been supplying many products through our distributors on to the London Bridge Quarter Project, and we have been heavily involved with product development. Working with end-users to establish their requirements, we have been designing and testing the products on site, with a view to launching them later in the year. Keep your eyes scanned and you will soon be able to sell these excellent products to some of your customers!

The Kingdom Tower will stand at 3280ft (1km) high, which is around 3½ times the height of The Shard in London. The Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, will lose its title as the world's tallest building, as the Kingdom Tower overtakes it by 570ft (173m).

The Kingdom Tower will be the equivalent to the height of 1514 Armorgard TuffBank TB2!

The £780m Kingdom Tower will be a mixed-use building, spread over more than 200 floors. It will house a five star luxury hotel, apartments, office space and will boast the highest observation deck in the world, situated on the 157th floor!

Construction work is scheduled to start in the middle of 2013, and it is due for completion within 63 months. Mace, the London based company will participate in a joint venture with fellow British company EC Harris, to manage the Kingdom Tower development.

It will be one of the largest hospitals in the UK, containing 30 modern operating theatres, and a separate laboratory block providing biochemistry (study of chemical process in living organisms), haematology (study of blood) and blood transfusion.

The special feature of the new hospital is the single room accommodation, which is designed to address the issues of hospital acquired infection (HAI), along with other diseases and germs that can easily spread in open-plan wards. Each ward will have a large window facing onto the main corridor, to allow for clear vision between the staff and patients. The bedrooms will be light and airy, offering some great views to the outside world. The new ward layout with special ‘touch-down’ stations have been arranged to help the staff deliver an even better level of care. The design will also provide socialising points where the patients can meet.

Armorgard have been providing several products to this large construction site in Glasgow through various distributors. The very popular product has been the PipeRack, which is a mobile unit designed to store and transport long lengths of copper pipe and conduit. The PipeRack is a very efficient way of manoeuvring lengths, as it prevents the need for any ‘re-stacking’ of resources as your job moves on through the site. A linking kit is also available, which enables you to join two PipeRack’s together and cater for 6 metre lengths! This is the only certified PipeRack on the UK market and comes supplied with a certificate of conformity.

View the PipeRack range.

The main civil engineering construction works for crossrail are well underway and are scheduled to complete in 2017, with the fit out of stations and testing of the lines continuing, the central section is due to be in service by late 2018, with the remaining scheduled to come into operation over the following months.

The total cost of the crossrail project is £15.9bn. However, the benefit of crossrail to the UK economy is calculated to be in the region of £42bn, with a tax boost of £17bn for the Treasury.

Each train on this line will be 200 metres long and will be able to accommodate 1500 passengers. An estimated 200 million passengers will travel on crossrail each year, and the route will provide a 10% increase to rail capacity in London. It will also help to create 30,000 high value jobs which would not otherwise exist.

The crossrail will consist of 37 stations, with 8 new sub-surface stations, this will link Heathrow, the West End, the City and Docklands, which will greatly improve on existing journey times, being a massive advantage for those who commute into London for work.

There are 21kms of new tunnels that are being constructed beneath central London. The tunnel boring machines will weave their way between existing underground tube lines, sewers, utilities, and building foundations at depths of up to 40 metres, to create the tunnels required to deliver the new railway.

The 8 new stations have been designed to cope with the large number of passengers throughout their life (planning on them existing at least 100 years). The stations have been designed to be easy to navigate through and endure wear and tear. This has all been put in to the hands of the UK's best architects, who have been working with world class engineering firms. The results are stunning, taking inspiration from the past and the local area and incorporating a fresh, modern twist, the new stations are surely very inspiring.

Where does Armorgard fit in?

We have begun by providing a variety of different products to the crossrail project via our trusted network of dealers. Storage of hazardous goods has been a familiar requirement, which has been solved through the Armorgard DrumStor and FlamStor.

Not forgetting the regular demand for secure storage of tools and other expensive equipment. The TuffBank has been proven to fulfil this requirement, being an excellent, and value for money solution, and with many other security and efficiency benefits, the Armorgard TuffBank is for those who really care for their equipment! Armorgard have also been supplying the UK's leading hire companies, who are key partners for the contractors on site, ensuring that Crossrail is a success, and delivered on time.

Maybe you would like to supply the Crossrail project with some of our products? Give us a call 023 9238 0280.

British farmers are systematically being targeted by criminals. The leading rural insurer NFU Mutual has said that ‘agri-crime’ has risen 17% over the last two years.

In 2010, the approximate cost of UK agricultural crime was £49.4 million. This is an extremely high amount and shows the constant battle that farmers face in protecting their assets.

Between March 2011 and March 2012, approximately 35% of farms had experienced crime. Theft was the most common, with tools and power tools (such as chainsaws, electric drills and lawnmowers) being the top most stolen items from farms. These are smaller items but have considerable value, which when stolen, can have adverse effects to farmers.

Tools and power tools are relatively simple products to keep safe and with the Armorgard range of tool security, it is virtually impossible for your tools to go missing. The 9 different sizes in the TuffBank range ensure that there is an exact size to suit your secure tool storage requirements. So there is no excuse, we have looked at all the potential ways in which a thief would attempt to break into a tool box, and in return we have strengthened and reinforced the areas on the TuffBank which could potentially be vulnerable, simple as that! We can offer a superb tool box that works much harder, still at the same great price!

Help Armorgard to drive down theft and crime rates in the Agricultural market, by calling 02392 380280, or email sales@a-sp.co.uk – or sit back and do nothing allowing the situation to get worse!

The total number of armed forces personnel at the games is 18,000, which is twice the number of troops deployed in Afghanistan!

The military have been planning and preparing for many weeks, to ensure a safe and secure Olympic games, with the total cost of the security being approximately £600 million.

Clearly, the police are responsible for taking the lead of security on British soil, however, the military are there to provide the extra capability and manpower to ensure that the ‘greatest peacetime security operation’ runs smoothly and according to plan.

Armorgard have recently provided the MOD with over 100 FlamBank fuel and chemical safes through a well entrusted dealer, of which the complete amount has been sent to the London Olympics and they are being installed and used in accord with the large security operation that is taking place in the UK.

Are you going to the Olympics? Spy an Armorgard FlamBank ‘in action’! Tell us, and send us a good photo of the FlamBank, and we’ll send you a FREE gift set! Call us on 023 9238 0280, or email sales@a-sp.co.uk.

Construction of the 1.6 mile long, cable-stayed bridge, started in summer 2011 and is scheduled to open in autumn 2016.

The new bridge consists of 3 towers each being 207 metres above high tide. The entire bridge will use 6300 tonnes of wire, which is 23,000 miles of stay cabling. WOW! With the globe being 24,901 miles at the equator, the entire amount of cabling used on the Forth Bridge would nearly stretch around the entire globe!

Why build a new Forth Bridge?

Although there has been significant investment and maintenance on the existing Forth Bridge, it is showing signs of deterioration, and is not suitable as a long-term main road crossing over the Firth of Forth. The new road bridge is therefore required to maintain the vital connection in Scotland.

Special features of the new bridge

One of the best advantages of the new 2 lane road bridge, and hard shoulder, is the modern wind-shielding feature which prevents traffic from being affected by wind buffeting, and it also minimises the risk of the bridge closing during high winds. This is a great added safety feature and assists in the bridge shining through the highest standards of civil engineering.

Armorgard have been providing their fuel safes and chemical safes, for the contractors to store their cans of fuel and chemical in safely. One essential area that can easily be overlooked is the requirement to be compliant with the law regarding the safe storage of fuels and chemicals.

View the Hazardous storage range that Armorgard offer.

The £2.5bn terminal will see 20 million passengers pass through it doors every year, and when the second phase of the construction is complete this will increase to 30 million passengers a year! However not only will the new terminal improve passenger ratings, but it will also see shorter security queues and more reliable baggage systems, which will really pull Heathrow to the top.

The new building will have large north-facing windows, which will fill the terminal with natural light, and yet prevent the building from reaching uncomfortable temperatures. This therefore reduces the need for  artificial lighting and heating, making it a very economical building.

Why are we telling you about Heathrow’s new terminal?

The brand new, state-of-the-art hospital will be changing the healthcare for many lives in the Bristol area.

Carillion are working with the Bristol NHS on the £430m project, which is due for completion in 2014 and will be one of the most environmentally-friendly buildings in the country.

One of the major benefits of this new hospital is the end of the traditional wards, being replaced by single rooms with en-suite facilities and four-bed wards. The upgrading to single rooms will greatly improve privacy and help considerably to control the spread of infections.

It will have low energy consumption, halving the current amount of energy the hospital use per one hundred cubic metres.

The wards will be naturally ventilated and eastward facing, which means they will take the warm morning sun to heat the room and prevent the afternoon sun overheating the room. This will significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to cool the rooms.

The two Armorgard products that have been very popular on this site are the SiteStation and the FittingStor. Click on the links to view more info on these products.

• SiteStation
• FittingStor

The total value of stolen equipment each year is in the region of £600m and £1b*. This calculates to be between £1.6m and £2.7m a day! – Secure storage may be a very small price to pay. Armorgard are here to here to provide YOU, and YOUR customers with ‘Proven Secure Storage Solutions’, leading the way to a safer and more secure working environment. With a vast range, suitable for every requirement, size and budget, Armorgard have the solution. Together, we can beat the thieves.

The cost of stolen goods is often more extensive than just the initial loss of the goods stolen. These include:

• Insurance premium increases
• Project downtime
• Damage to property

You should never underestimate the cost of construction site theft, and secure storage on construction sites cannot be over emphasised. An experienced site manager said “As a victim of construction site theft, I can only emphasise the necessity of taking site security seriously. This is a major issue facing the construction industry today and pro-active measures must be taken.”

*The range is so vast due to incomplete theft data, however, whatever figure you pick in this range; it shows that there is a worrying problem.

When it comes to securing tools & equipment often different levels of protection are required. This depends on various aspects such as the value of your tools, how susceptible your working environment is to theft or simply how long you require the product to last.

‘Peace of mind fitted as standard’

What’s the difference between them?

Oxbox™

The Oxbox™ is a medium duty range of tool vaults designed for lower risk and lower budget situations, however still providing a good level of security and protection for your tools. Utilising many of the same features of the other 2 ranges including locks, hinge, gas struts and paint finish, we maximize the strength by creating extra folds in the material. Manufactured from 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5mm steel, the OxBox is available in 4 popular sizes and it compares very well with other alternatives on the market.

Tuffbank™

The Tuffbank™ is our most popular range – highly versatile and cost effective. Another market leading brand of tool vaults, offering the best combination of superb quality and excellent value for money. This tough, sturdy range of storage boxes are built to a very high standard using 2 & 3mm steel, boasting many anti-jemmy features which are unique to Armorgard. With a range of 9 sizes to choose from, you can be sure a Tuffbank will fit the job!

Strongbank™

The absolute ultimate brand of site storage safes. When Armorgard began making secure storage boxes, the Strongbank™ was created to provide an indestructible solution for storage of tools & equipment on site. Over 20 years later it is still by far the strongest most robust on the market; nothing compares. Manufactured using 3 and 5mm steel and with every vulnerable area strengthened, this unrivalled product will last you a lifetime and will deter the most determined thief. Use Strongbank for ultimate security.

Traditionally just available as a fully welded ultra strong design, the new range is both medium duty and collapsible, allowing for positioning exactly where it is required with ease.

Having sold hundreds of the heavy duty stores into agricultural, local authorities, offshore locations and construction to name just a few, the new range is more suited where perhaps risk is slightly lower, access is more limited or just where budget is restricted.

> View the new FlamStor collapsible
> View the new TuffStor collapsible

Whereas the FlamStor and TuffStor heavy duty can be made to suit any requirements, the new collapsible version is only available in stock sizes.

Being well known as market leaders for quality, service and value for money, this new range compliments the popular TuffBank and StrongBank ranges but is more suited for those with a lower budget. This now enables us to offer our customers ‘a box for every budget’!

Boasting many same features, including 5 lever deadlocks, heavy duty brass keys, continuous hinge, gas springs and durable paint finish, the OxBox has been designed and manufactured using the latest technology in machinery, to enable us to create strength by folding material, rather than just relying on material thickness.

The OxBox range of tool vaults is available in 4 popular sizes, and large stocks are held at Armorgard's factory in Fareham, Hants. Having been tested and proven in arduous on-site conditions for the past 10 months, Armorgard are pleased to announce that a revolutionary new site safe range has been born!

For more details of the OxBox range please contact us.

Particularly used by the hire industry, perhaps the most arduous of industries, this service solves the problem of having damaged site boxes in the yard unable to earn revenue.

The good news is that not only do we repair our own tool vaults, but our experienced engineers have developed a system to repair most other makes, including Sentribox, VanVault, Site Safe, Porta Stor and Toolboxes Direct. We also weld a new serial number to every box we repair, enabling replacement keys to be purchased in the future.

Speedy Hire have recently taken advantage of this facility, enabling them to return many damaged tool storage vaults back into good working order for use on the London 2012 Olympics site in Stratford.

Held at the Ricoh Arena on 9th and 10th February, we will be found on stand D8 in the back left hand corner of the hall.

On show will be a variety of products from the Armorgard range, including the new ‘Ring2Release™’ locking system and the new Xena alarm padlocks.

PIPERACK

With more and more Health and Safety officers condemning storage of copper pipe on the floor, there has been a huge demand for a storage rack that is both strong enough to hold large quantities, but is also mobile enough for transporting around site.

The Mobile Pipe Rack is available with a 1 tonne capacity and also a 2 tonne. It has been tested and each unit has its own certification for complete peace of mind.

Being designed particularly for the hire industry, it is a collapsible, one piece design, that is also easily stacked.

FITTINGSTOR

With the cost of copper having escalated over recent months, fittings and wire are at an increasing risk of theft, generally by other tradesmen working nearby.

Armorgard, working with commercial plumbers and electricians, have designed a robust mobile fittings cabinet to minimise this risk. With adjustable shelves and removable plastic compartment bins, any contractor can have complete peace of mind that his material will not go walkies!

PIPESTOR

Soon to be launched is the new PipeStor, or Copper Coffin as it is commonly known to some. Again, to tackle the ‘copper thief’ this is a 3.0m secure store, divided inside into 4 compartments, and accessible from one end. Designed for the hire trade, the PipeStor folds in the middle for storage and transportation. It comes complete with 6 castors which are suitable for construction sites.

As a result of a constant flow of enquiries, the Armorgard brand is becoming quite popular within Europe. Recently a company in Rotterdam required a quantity of hazardous storage vaults within 2 working days of enquiring. The FlamBank was the perfect answer, fully complying with all the necessary regulations. Armorgard not only fulfilled the order to a satisfactory level, but they could have delivered it next day!

Further afield, Armorgard have dealers set up in Canada, USA and Australia.

SiteStation

With a number of requests over the years for a Knaack Field Station, Armorgard have now designed their own version, with many user benefits. Used generally as a multi-purpose site store, they are useful for securing anything from PPE to power tools, and from copper fittings to site plans. Various different compartments means that you can have the main door open, but still have a secure area within the store.

BarroBox

Lets face it; the biggest thief on today’s construction site is the contractor working behind you. When your back is turned he will happily help himself to anything in sight. That is why many contractors are now turning to the new Barrobox (sometimes referred to as a 'Barrow Box') from Armorgard – always keep you tools by your side, but in a secure lockable vault! The internal handle controls the wheels – wind them down and you have a mobile site box, wind them up and your site safe is static! Take your tools with you wherever you are working on the site!

TuffCage

The most innovative gas cage on the market! With the majority of gas cages being used as a temporary store, gone are the days of needing to unbolt it or even store it as a fixed unit. The new cage from Armorgard is fully collapsible with no detachable parts to worry about. Particularly popular with the hire industry, they fold up very neatly for storage and transport. The TuffCage is manufactured from heavy grade galvanised steel, and is available in one standard size.

TransBank

The TransBank from Armorgard provides users of chemicals or fuels with an economically priced chem safe or fuel safe that fully complies to all regulations. Designed as a transit box or a fixed store for chemicals or flammables, the Trans Bank is fast becoming the first choice for many local authorities and landscape gardeners. The smallest version is designed to take 5l cans of fuel or standard cans of ‘Round Up’, and the others are all designed around the sizes of 20l ‘Jerry cans’

Armorgard is a specialist manufacturer of renowned tool storage and manual handling products and is headquartered in Fareham, Hampshire, where the original Armorgard engineers and marketers set out to create a line of durable, secure "site-boxes" over 25 years ago.

Above and beyond that legendary, signature red and black exterior, instantly recognised, Armorgard invests a lot of energy, time and money into R&D. We get tremendous satisfaction out of designing and providing unique, high-value and easy-to-use solutions, for a wide variety of needs. 

We develop and sell our products and make them readily accessible and available throughout numerous trade channels across the UK, Europe and further afield. 

In addition to the famous strongbank, tuffbank and oxbox tool safes, Armorgard offers a full line of professional grade specialty equipment storage, work platforms and units and manual handling products, designed to perform specific tasks:  CuttingStation is a neat, mobile workstation for cutting timber, cable tray and pipe; Forma-Stor is our quick-assembly, modular solution for on-site secure storage; our ergonomically designed 400 litre capacity multi-purpose Rubble Truck, ideal for handling site waste; and XtractaBench our all-in-one workbench and dust extraction management unit. 

We like to think our products have memorable and easily remembered names. Of course, the various different spellings of the name Armorgard are used in different countries:

Armour Guard 

Armour Gard 

Armor Guard 

Armourguard 

Armourgard 

Armorguard 

Armaguard 

Armagard

However, to confirm, the correct way is Armorgard!