Focus on fit testing

When specifying Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) which includes Respiratory Protective Devices (RPD) it is important to consider the role of Fit2Fit and the needs of the user in addition to the performance characteristics of the RPE says the BSIF.

Time to speed up adoption of IIoT?

As Irish manufacturing growth slows – a survey released by IHS Markit showed that the rise in output, employment growth and new-order growth all slowed in December – maximising manufacturing efficiency by exploiting the latest techniques and technologies is more important than ever.

CE is no guarantee

CE markings are no guarantee of safety, according to Neil Hewitt, divisional director, Quality and Technical Standard at Arco. Here, he discusses the potential risks for your business

Millions wasted due to R&D blind spot, according to new research

More than 8 in 10 engineering and building firms could be eligible for Research and Development (R&D) tax relief on new products and services, but only 39% of them have ever claimed, according to specialist tax relief firm Catax. Here, the company explains more 

Should robots be taxed?

There has been talk in some quarters about a potential tax on automation and robotics, Here, Nigel Smith, managing director of Toshiba Machine partner, TM Robotics, explains why he believes slowing down the machine economy would lead to a productivity disaster. 

AI vs human involvement

Heiko Luckhaupt, industry sector marketing manager of RS Components, looks at AI and considers the benefits it will offer in light of an ever-changing modern workforce

Shining the spotlight on high-tech, automated systems in support of Industrial Strategy

The formation of the Food & Drink Sector Council, as part of the Government’s new Industrial Strategy, has been welcomed by automation specialists and according to Endoline Machinery, it will underpin a positive change for the UK’s manufacturing outlook. 

Manufacturing trends in 2018 and beyond

As we start a new year, Sean Riley, global industry director for manufacturing and transportation at Software AG, outlines five manufacturing trends he believes we will see in 2018 and beyond

The changing face of work-based placements

Change can be a daunting experience, especially when the future is unknown. However, for many, change can come with a multitude of benefits. Here, Lucy Speed, HR advisor at engineering solutions provider, Boulting Group, explains the important role work-based placements have on the evolving engineering sector

UK manufacturing industry must wake up to automation

A dramatic increase in investment in robotics and automation will be essential if we are to remain competitive and achieve the productivity levels required to attain the growth needed to sustain our economy, according to Güdel UK’s Will Bourn looks at the UK’s past record of investment in robotics and automation, and the positive impact that future investment can have on UK competitiveness.