In today’s market, membership of an industry sector organisation can be the one constant that is relied upon for support.  So it’s good to know that, no matter what challenges are being faced, BCAS can provide a professional home, which can help companies achieve their goals.

Since BCAS was founded back in 1930, it has continued to grow and currently enjoys a record number of UK based companies and individuals in full membership, with a growing number of European and internationally based companies joining as Associate Members.

Choosing a supplier

When it comes to choosing a compressed air supplier, we are finding that increasing numbers of end users are looking for the security and expertise that comes with using a BCAS member. One area where this expertise can be demonstrated is in our AirSAFE registration scheme. Using the online system, customers can read reviews on our members’ performance from their industry peers and find a recommended compressed air distributor local to their business.

The system enables customers to make an informed decision on which compressed air supplier to select, based not just on locality or price, but on important factors such as reliability of service, technical expertise, helpfulness and environmental diligence.

In addition to helping consumers make an informed decision on which compressed air supplier to use, feedback also allows BCAS to view the performance of its members and will help to further improve the types and levels of service that the society offers.

Use of the register by distributors is a mandatory part of BCAS membership and is in compliance with the society’s Code of Conduct. Since its launch in 2008, over 90% of customers have said they would happily recommend using a member of the British Compressed Air Society.

Fraudulent claims

The recent trend in using a BCAS member for the supply of compressed has led to an increase in the number of companies fraudulently claiming to be a part of the society. It’s becoming increasingly common for companies to use the BCAS logo on the side of vehicles, buildings and any forms of external communication in the hope of picking up more business.

Under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, it’s illegal to falsely claim to be a member of a trade association.  If end users are in any doubt about the legitimacy of their compressed air suppliers’ BCAS membership, they should visit the ‘Find a member’ area of the BCAS website or contact the society directly. Alternatively they can contact the local Trading Standards Office.

Conference success

With a record number of registrations and a high turnout on the day, it was standing room only for some delegates who were intent on hearing the speakers at the BCAS 2014 Spring Conference held on 8 April 2014 at the NEC, Birmingham.

Following delegate registration and refreshments, Chris Dee, BCAS Executive Director, opened the conference and introduced the following speakers:  James Maziak from the BCAS board, with a report on the Distributor Working Group; Mark Dealtry from Referenceline on the latest updates and app for the BCAS AirSAFE register; Louise Phillips from Jelf Group & Bronwen Horn (Hiscox) on Directors’ responsibilities and obligations; Richard Willett from Wolters Kluwer on the latest HR ‘hot topics’ and Steve Goodall from Original Input on motivating people to give their best; and Derek Turnbull, BCAS president, who gave a closing address.

Associate Membership offer

On its stand at Air-Tech 2014, BCAS launched a free 12-month Associate Membership offer for customers of current BCAS members – worth £975. The offer will provide UK companies with a number of BCAS membership benefits including discounts on training and publications, and access to compressed air codes of practice and the society’s social events.

The free membership will be effective from or backdated to 1st July 2014 and will last until 30th June 2015.  A company’s BCAS membership must be active on 1st July 2014 for its customers to be entitled to this offer.