A recent CBI report has highlighted that UK exports are at a two year high and moving forwards the country has the chance to independently renegotiate trade deals both with the EU and other major trading partners.

If the compressed air industry is going to make the most of these discussions then end users and suppliers need to come together and act with a united voice.

BCAS is the only UK trade association that represents manufacturers, distributors and end users of compressors, vacuum pumps, pneumatic tools and allied products. This means that it represents the needs of the entire supply chain for compressed air to the United Kingdom and European and overseas institutions.

In addition to unearthing new opportunities, another area that demands attention is BCAS’ ongoing work with international standards and legislation.  The UK is recognised for its skills in this area and BCAS continues to be at the heart of the international standards world.  

Working as partners with Pneurop, Orgalime and CAGI will ensure that BCAS continues to be a strong partner representing the UK compressed air industry in legislation. It also means that we are in the ideal position to help and advise suppliers and end users to ensure compliance.

BCAS is conducting a survey of its members to ask what they want from Brexit and gauge its likely affect on their businesses. We will publish the results in the November/December issue of IPE.

If you are a BCAS member please complete the online survey at:  http://www.bcas.org.uk/members-area/brexit-survey.aspx

New technical officer

BCAS has appointed Marion Beaver as its new technical officer. The role is key to the Society’s work with the UK government, European and other overseas institutions in representing the industry on proposed energy and environmental legislation and Marion brings a wealth of experience, gained over 25 years in production, engineering technology and energy consultancy roles.

Commenting on the appointment, Vanda Jones, executive director at BCAS said: “The technical officer role is instrumental in ensuring the society provides unbiased advice on the latest legislation, technical standards, environmental and compliance issues that affect users of compressed air and vacuum systems.

“Originally from a process manufacturing background, Marion moved into energy management in 1997.  Most recently as an energy management consultant in advisory and auditing roles, she has enabled large companies in industrial sectors to meet the compliance requirements of ESOS (Energy Saving Opportunities Scheme). She has worked with BCAS and the compressed air sector since 1998 when she was a project manager on the UK Government’s Energy Efficiency Programme. 

“This makes her ideally placed to advise both BCAS members and end-users on these critical areas of best practice, safety and compliance.

“Marion’s experience of implementing quality improvement projects will be of real benefit as the Society continues to work with air users to help them maximise productivity.

Work safe

Used responsibly compressed air is a vital commodity to industry, but used incorrectly it can pose a serious health and safety hazard.

Become a member of BCAS and download a free guide about compressed air safety.  If you are an end user of compressed air and are a customer of a BCAS member then you can join for free. www.bcas.org.uk.