Clearview North August 2014 - Issue 153 | Page 30

INDUSTRYNEWS FENSA NOTIFICATIONS FLATTEN OFF Notifications of replacement windows and doors in domestic properties in the second quarter of 2014 are up just 0.54%* on the same period last year, FENSA reports. This represents a slowing down in the growth of installations figures. In comparison, the second quarter of 2013 saw an increase of 8.53% over 2012. April was up 3.7% on 2013, May up 1.2% and June was down 3.3%. Commenting on the figures, FENSA Managing Director Chris Mayne, said: “We need to ask whether the installation market has currently peaked. ‘slowing down’ “A number of other indicators and some commentators have predicted a slowdown in the construction sector. Also, June could be an anomaly. June 6 saw the deadline for FENSA installers to Transition to Certified Installer and a number had their accounts frozen, meaning they were unable to advise us of installations.” According to DCLG, some 89% of all window installations are covered by FENSA. * Calculated from the most up to date window and door installation figures notified to FENSA in April, May and June 2014. www.fensa.org.uk Crystal sponsored rider wins National Championship Bridget Andrews, Crystal sponsored winner of the 2013/14 National Ladies Point to Point Championship. Crystal sponsored jockey, Bridget Andrews has won the 2013/14 National Ladies Point to Point Championship. Based at her father’s racing yard in Bedfordshire, Bridget has been riding since she was six years old and has horse racing in her blood. Bridget said: “I’m thrilled to have won the title and would like to thank Crystal for their continued faith and support”. Crystal Direct, the No. 1 trade fabricator for choice and colour, has sponsored Bridget since 2011. Crystal Chairman Martin Randall added: “We’re delighted for Bridget. Winning the National Championships is a huge achievement and we’ve been happy to support Bridget over the past few years and track her progress. Well done Bridget!” For further information on Crystal Direct call 01462 489 900 or visit www.crystal-direct.co.uk. Ritec International awarded Safe Contractor Second Year Running Ritec International has been awarded the Safe Contractor Accreditation as part of its continued commitment to safety across all of its services for the second year in a row. Under the Safe Contractor system, businesses undergo a thorough vetting process, which examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. This gives Ritec a complete health and 30 AUG 2014 safety portfolio to help ease the ever- more stringent health and safety requirements in today’s workplace. Martin Burkett, Health & Safety Manager, commented: “Being awarded the Safe Contractor accreditation demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards for the health and safety of our employees, sub-contractors and customers.” Having the Safe Contractor status adds yet another level of co