THE BRITISH Compressed Society (BCAS) has developed the UK’s first, independent performance verification programme for 50 Hz rotary compressors in the European market.

Buyers rely heavily on manufacturer datasheets to make informed purchasing decisions, but comparing performance data from different brands can be a complex task. Working with its manufacturer members, the programme, which is supported with a new website, produces datasheets which provide a uniform and commercially practical means of comparing compressor performance claims during the specification and buying processes.  

This ensures that all compressors under consideration are measured using the same standards, allowing buyers to compare true performance across brands, including differences in power rating, pressure and energy consumption.

The importance of independent verification

Independent verification at BCAS’s third-party testing laboratory is the cornerstone of the programme and validates the information published by each manufacturer. Verified data is, by its nature, trustworthy and can be of particular benefit when a company is implementing energy efficiency programmes and needs to report on its carbon reduction efforts with confidence.

Compressed air systems involve multiple variables including kilowatt rating, flow rate, pressure, duty cycle and energy consumption to name a few. Standardised information helps buyers reduce technical complexity and reach a decision faster, without a protracted process of liaising with multiple vendors.

How the scheme works

Participating companies report compressor performance based on the internationally recognised ISO1217:2009 standard for compressors. 

Datasheets for each of these machines is available on BCAS’s new website (https://performance.bcas.org.uk), helping buyers to compare models from different brands by kW size and by fixed or variable speed.

On a regular basis, BCAS selects, at random, machine samples to be sent to its laboratory in the UK. Here, each compressor is tested rigorously to verify that it meets the manufacturer’s published performance ratings.

Once a machine has passed, the participant may use the official verification programme badge on all qualifying machines.  If a test unit does not pass, the manufacturer has the option to have a second unit tested, which has also been previously chosen by BCAS.  If this unit also fails, the manufacturer must re-rate the unit based on the test results within 30 days.

"Standardised, verified data helps buyers reduce technical complexity and reach a decision faster, without a protracted process of liaising with multiple vendors," said Ashley Quarterman, executive director at BCAS.

"In many industries, compressed air is a critical utility. If a system fails or underperforms, production can be impacted significantly. Buyers need to act fast to identify and specify a suitable replacement or upgrade to avoid costly downtime. Having the ability to compare different machines quickly and easily, whether assessing different brands or even different models from the same manufacturer, can really pay dividends."

To view the current set of datasheets available, visit the new website at performance.bcas.org.uk.

For more information: 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

We live in a world of comparison. Whether it’s searching for the cheapest insurance deal, finding the best price for that must-have pair of trainers or weighing up the all-inclusive benefits of one hotel trip over another, the internet is our friend!

Empowering businesses' purchasing decisions

For comparing price, perks or performance, as consumers, we are increasingly reliant on digital resources to help us make informed purchasing decisions. But the same can’t always be said for sourcing capital equipment in our working lives.

Buyers rely heavily on manufacturer datasheets to make informed purchasing decisions, but comparing performance data from different brands can be a complex task. And, when it comes to the world of compressed air, this conundrum has left many a purchasing manager scratching their head as they try to assess the differences in power rating, pressure and energy consumption! 

That is, until now. BCAS has developed the UK’s first, independent performance verification programme for 50 Hz rotary compressors in the European market.

A UK first

Working with its manufacturer members, the programme produces datasheets which provide a uniform and commercially practical means of comparing performance claims during the specification and buying processes. This ensures that all compressors under consideration are measured using the same standards, allowing buyers to compare true performance across brands.

Independent verification at BCAS’s third-party testing laboratory is the cornerstone of the programme and validates the information published by each manufacturer.  Verified data is, by its nature, trustworthy and can be of particular benefit when a company is implementing energy efficiency programmes and needs to report on its carbon reduction efforts with confidence.

Compressed air systems involve multiple variables including kilowatt rating, flow rate, pressure, duty cycle and energy consumption to name a few. Standardised, verified data helps buyers reduce technical complexity and reach a decision faster, without a protracted process of liaising with multiple vendors.

Procurement departments often work within tight budget windows or project timeframes and delays in specifying equipment can postpone larger capital projects or facility upgrades, increasing overall costs.

A long-term investment

In addition, purchasing a compressor should be viewed as a long-term investment. Compressors have an excellent track record for longevity and robust performance; however, mistakes made during specification can increase ownership costs over time.  

In many industries, compressed air is a critical utility. If a system fails or underperforms, production can be impacted significantly. Buyers need to act fast to identify and specify a suitable replacement or upgrade to avoid costly downtime. Having the ability to compare different machines quickly and easily, whether assessing different brands or even different models from the same manufacturer, can really pay dividends.

To view the current set of datasheets available, visit the new website at https://performance.bcas.org.uk.

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

This course will soon be matched with an auditor training programme that will ‘equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to evaluate the energy performance of compressed air systems, identify areas for improvement, and implement measures to enhance efficiency.’

This will be the first BCAS course that will be validated by The Society of Operational Engineers and upon completion, will be recognised to a level that EngTech postnominals could be awarded to individuals. 

Overview of BS EN ISO 11011

ISO 11011 was produced and published with input from BCAS and was adopted as the European Standard EN ISO 11011 with the aim of improving energy management practices for organisations that use compressed air. 

A primary focus of any compressed air system should be to generate air using the least amount of energy possible. Following this, it is important to transmit that energy efficiently and to minimise waste during production.

By providing a structured approach to measurement, ISO 11011 helps operators to identify any inefficiencies and implement targeted improvements.

It outlines the requirements for conducting and reporting assessments of compressed air systems, focusing on the entire compressed air system, encompassing the energy inputs and the actions taken as a result of these inputs. 

Functional subsystems

The standard categorises compressed air systems into three functional subsystems:

• Supply: This focuses on the conversion of primary energy resources into compressed air energy. It includes the generation of compressed air, and the efficiency of the equipment used throughout the process.
• Transmission: This aspect deals with the movement of compressed air from generation to the point of use, including the efficiency of the piping, fittings, and any other components.
• Demand: This subsystem encompasses all consumers of compressed air, including air used in production and any forms of compressed air waste. Understanding the demand for air is essential for identifying areas where efficiency can be improved.

ISO 11011 in practice

Regardless of the methodologies used, taking a whole system approach ensures that operators will achieve the maximum benefit from the assessment process.

Typically, this process would begin by deciding the scope of a full assessment of the system. This could include compressed air use, production functions, poor performance, waste, supply, demand balance, energy use, total compressed air demand and utility bills.  Once the scope has been defined, data can be collected and recorded the data.

After assessing this data, decisions can then be made about what actions will help to save the most money, such as fixing air leaks. The assessment will also help determine if the right compressor and/or air receiver is being used, if the system pressure is unnecessarily high or whether air is being over treated.

From this, users can targeted action, which might include repairing leaks and establishing a leak management programme, upgrading equipment, improving process control or using variable speed controls.

To learn more about BCAS training courses, visit elearning.bcas.org.uk/our-courses/all-courses/

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

To address industry-specific needs, BCAS, in collaboration with employers and training experts, first developed the Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician (CAVT) apprenticeship in 2021.

This 36-month programme offers a robust blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and workplace-based learning. It equips learners to become competent field service engineers, installation specialists, and commissioning professionals.

One of the standout features of the CAVT programme is its remote delivery model, allowing access across the UK without the need for college attendance. This flexibility supports field-based engineers and helps employers manage productivity while still investing in long-term skills development.

A number of apprentices are close to completing their training. However, many employers cite complexity in navigating the apprenticeship system, administrative demands, or misconceptions that apprenticeships are only suited to school leavers. Others remain unaware of the CAVT programme altogether.

Listening to employers and taking action

In response, BCAS has been actively gathering feedback through surveys, one to one conversations, site visits, and workshops. A key initiative is the formation of a Consultative Board - a group of industry experts helping to steer the apprenticeship’s future direction.

From this work, a clear message has emerged: employers want to invest in apprentices. Based on recent feedback and growing interest, we anticipate a 132% increase in learner numbers over the next 12 months; a clear signal of both need and demand for a dedicated apprenticeship within the sector.

Widening provider engagement

To meet this demand, BCAS is engaging with training providers and colleges. Currently, a small number of specialist providers deliver the CAVT programme. The team is working to broaden this network, raising awareness to help providers understand and adopt the standard.

This includes promoting the benefits of a more flexible model, the structured progression route, and the alignment with broader engineering skills, all of which offer excellent value to both learners and employers.

New developments: Foundation apprenticeships

Looking ahead, BCAS is monitoring the introduction of Foundation Apprenticeships closely, which the Department for Education will roll out from August 2025. These new eight-month programmes aim to provide a flexible, low-risk entry point into skilled employment by focusing on core workplace behaviours, technical understanding, and hands-on skills within real job roles.

For the compressed air sector, Foundation Apprenticeships could serve as a stepping stone into the full CAVT programme, offering a more accessible path for school leavers, career changers, and those new to engineering. This approach could be particularly valuable for smaller businesses or employers looking to upskill staff gradually.

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

The human brain has an estimated storage capacity equivalent to around one million gigabytes of information: the same as watching 300 years of continuous video.  From the moment we are born, our brains are thirsty for knowledge, with children under six able to learn up to 10 new words each day until they reach a staggering average of between 20,00 to 35,000 words in adulthood.

In our professional lives, and according to a 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report, skill sets for jobs have changed by approximately 25% since 2015 and are expected to change by as much as 65% by 2030.

As humans, there is no doubt we have the ability to learn and adapt. Set these abilities against the backdrop of workplace pressures to be more multi-skilled and more adept than ever before, it's no wonder that continuous learning and development is a high priority for businesses across the country.  

Indeed, 58% of professionals say that L&D 'has a seat at the executive table', a 5% rise compared to two years ago.

The importance of continuous professional development (CPD)



Continuous professional development is essential for engineers to adapt to technological advancements, meet industry requirements, and enhance their careers. Many industries require engineers to demonstrate ongoing professional development to maintain appropriate licenses, with CPD qualifications providing evidence of high quality and safety standards.

In the compressed air sector alone, AI technologies are bringing a new dimension to system control and traditional service regimes are being enhanced with predictive maintenance. Compressors, the workhorses of many a production plant, are becoming more efficient, with fewer moving parts and an emphasis on energy reduction.

These advances in engineering bring with them a range of training challenges. Engineers must update their skills regularly to use new software and methodologies effectively, while changing industry standards mean that continuous leaning is essential to maintain compliance and competence.

Elsewhere, investing in on-the-job training is proven to reduce the likelihood of errors, enhancing overall operational efficiency.  

But it is not only the employer that benefits from a well-trained, highly skilled workforce. Upskilling often results in higher salaries and equips engineers to transition into other roles and adapt to industry changes, alongside the softer benefits of personal reward and a sense of achievement.

Adapting to a changing learning environment

During Covid, the entire learning community went online, with providers quick to convert previous face-to-face training courses to suit digital learning. This experience proved that fully remote courses could often achieve the same learning outcomes as before, without any compromise in quality. However not all training suits a computer-screen environment, especially that which requires delegates to learn by ‘doing’ rather than by ‘seeing’, meaning the effectiveness of some courses was compromised.

BCAS had already adopted a blended approach to training, combining both remote learning with classroom sessions and has continued to apply this methodology. Some shorter courses are online only, allowing engineers to train at a place, and pace that fits around their work schedule. Others combine in-person training with online support materials where subject matter is more technically complex.

Meeting the demand for continuous learning

BCAS has continued to adapt its training offer to ensure that courses not only remain technically relevant in a changing industrial workplace but provide meaningful support for engineers keen to improve their skills and competence.

In July, this saw the Society join The Society of Operations Engineers (SOE). By partnering with SOE, BCAS training courses will now benefit from formal accreditation, helping to boost the credibility of BCAS training and provide recognised pathways for engineers to progress professionally.

As part of the partnership, professionals completing eligible BCAS training programmes will be able to achieve the EngTech postnominal recognition from SOE, validating their technical competence and commitment to continued learning.

This joint initiative will further reinforce the value of skills development and professional recognition in the engineering community.

Other recent accomplishments for BCAS include the development of a specific Level 3 NVQ tailored for the engineering industry, which has been recognised for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card alongside being nominated as an international finalist in the E-Assessment Awards in the best workplace and best talent assessment project categories. BCAS is also developing new units for its proven Diploma in Compressed Air Management (DipCam) qualification, which are set to launch by the end of Summer 2025.

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SOE Viewpoint: The importance of CPD for engineers

Continuous professional development (CPD) is increasingly vital in engineering. According to the Engineering Council UK, based on findings commonly cited by professional engineering bodies in the UK, over 80% of engineers agree that CPD helps them remain up-to-date and effective in their roles

In today’s digital landscape, experienced engineers face rapid technological change and must continually update their skills to stay relevant. Meanwhile, younger entrants benefit from hands-on, on-site experience to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Both groups have distinct, but equally important CPD needs, ensuring a competent and future-ready workforce.

It is also important to remember all aspects of the UK Spec when considering CPD. Maintaining ‘competence’ requires a wide range of ever evolving skills aside from just the technical expertise, such as soft skills like leadership, communication, and project management alongside digital literacy, sustainability, AI, cybersecurity, and data analysis - all reflecting the changing demands of the industry.

Staying aware of these trends helps future-proof your teams’ skills, increase engagement, and make training more flexible and impactful.

Future-proofing business

The UK has a well-established framework for CPD, increasingly delivered via online platforms, making training accessible anytime, anywhere - such as the SOE platform. Supported by professional bodies such as the Engineering Council, SOE and other PRI’s in the UK place a strong emphasis on structured CPD and post-nominal recognition and most commentators suggest the UK is ahead in formal CPD requirements. However there is always room to evolve, especially to address digital transformation and sustainability, as mentioned above.

Post-nominals (such as CEng, IEng, or EngTech) are more than just letters after a name, and maintenance of these requires ongoing learning and development.

For individuals, they demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence, boost employability, and foster pride in their achievements. For employers, these designations are a clear indicator of technical competence, credibility, and adherence to industry standards and ethics. This recognition can help to win new business, inspire client confidence, and support talent retention. Many companies are now insisting on professional registration as a prerequisite for promotion.

Employers can benefit by embedding a culture of learning, offering flexible training pathways, and supporting mentoring between experienced and younger engineers. This approach helps address the dual challenges of an ageing workforce and attracting new talent. Investing in CPD and training not only ensures compliance but also future-proofs businesses, drives innovation, and enhances employee engagement. 

The SOE has published a paper entitled: Why everyone in positions of engineering responsibility should be Eng Tech, I Eng or C Eng.

Supporting CPD isn’t just about compliance; it’s about building a brighter, more resilient future for your team, your business and society.

Sitting alongside CPD, especially for younger engineers, should be development and mentoring programs. Employers should look to challenge willing employees with tasks and projects to aid in their development and progression. 

The SOE can help to provide mentors through the mentoring platform, giving support, direction and suggestions to further individual development.

Dominic Dawson is chair of the BES and IPlantE professional sector of the Society of Operations Engineers

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

The new Compressed Air Pathway is an important step towards raising professional standards and enhancing site safety for those already working in the compressed air industry.

The NVQ was developed in part to address the competency concerns raised by the Construction Leadership Council regarding personnel working on construction sites. The resulting Compressed Air Pathway is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition.

It is designed so that learners can demonstrate their existing knowledge and credentials, without requiring additional training. This gives confidence to end-customers of the engineer's competence, experience and commitment to safe working practices during the installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance of compressed air systems.

"The launch of our new NVQ is testament to the significant strides made by the compressed air industry in recent months," said Collier. "We’ve formalised the extensive experience many compressed air engineers already possess, offering both recognition for their skills and reassurance to end users that all statutory and safety requirements will be met."

Recognising existing skills, avoiding unnecessary training

One of the key features of the new diploma is its flexibility for experienced engineers. Unlike more traditional training routes, this NVQ is designed to assess existing knowledge.

Evidence collection, a cornerstone of NVQ assessment, can be a barrier for both learners and employers, requiring significant time and documentation. BCAS has designed the NVQ to make this process much simpler, with candidates encouraged to build a portfolio that reflects their day-to-day work, including job packs, video demonstrations, and professional discussions. 

Prior learning is also recognised, meaning past qualifications, training courses, or relevant experience can count toward certification where appropriate.

Future expansion

Early industry response has been overwhelmingly positive. A recent coaching event hosted by BCAS for candidates currently undertaking the qualification saw strong engagement, with 95% of attendees finding it useful and 83% expressing interest in attending further events. 

The Society has also reported significant uptake in applications since the launch and has welcomed feedback from participants for future enhancements.  For example, it is already considering the addition of an optional pipe module, aimed at engineers who install or maintain piping systems in future iterations of the qualification.

"Our new NVQ enhances our portfolio of training options and would not have been possible without the collective efforts of our members, industry partners and the BCAS team. But this is just the beginning. We are committed to adapting the qualification to reflect future changes in the compressed air sector as it adapts to new engineering challenges," Collier affirmed.

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BCAS compressed air pathway: At-a-glance guide

Target audience

• Suitable for learners aged 16+ particularly those with the potential to meet the outlined criteria
• Recommended for experienced engineers and technicians already working in the compressed air industry
• No formal entry requirements but highly recommended for experienced engineers and technicians already working within the industry.

Qualification structure

Four mandatory core units, followed by a selection of pathway-specific units tailored to the compressed air industry. The focus of the ‘Compressed Air’ units includes maintenance, commissioning, and installation activities, ensuring that learners acquire the necessary skills to adapt to various job roles and environments.

Core mandatory units

To achieve certification, candidates must complete the following four mandatory units:

1.     Complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements

2.     Using and interpreting engineering data and documentation

3.     Working efficiently and effectively in engineering

4.     Handing over and confirming completion of maintenance or installation activities

Optional units 

In addition to the mandatory units, learners must complete a minimum of one optional unit from the following list. It is important to note here that if the maintenance unit is selected, either the installation or commissioning unit must also be completed to meet certification requirements:

• Installing compressed air equipment
• Commissioning compressed air equipment and systems
• Maintaining compressed air systems and equipment

Programme duration and prior learning

Typically, a Level 3 qualification requires 12 to 18 months for completion. However, this programme is specifically tailored for experienced employees, allowing for a potentially shorter duration of as little as six months.

Learners are encouraged to use the assessment criteria from the outset, enabling them to progress at their own pace while gathering evidence for their portfolio. 

BCAS is committed to recognising prior learning, allowing learners to present evidence such as course tests or attendance certificates. If the knowledge remains relevant, it can be assessed through professional discussion, ensuring that learners can demonstrate their competence effectively.

Evidence collection

Candidates can build their portfolio using performance evidence such as:

• Job packs
• Short, high-quality video evidence
• Professional discussions with assessors

Should you have any further ideas or suggestions, please contact Terry Collier at [email protected]. Your input is invaluable as BCAS strives to enhance its training offer and meet the needs of learners and the industry.

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

Frances Marsh, society administrator at the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) is working with members to encourage them to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant - a new commitment from the Society and its members to those who have served. 

The Covenant is a commitment from BCAS and its members to the Armed Forces Community. It acknowledges and understands that the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives.

Providing meaningful support to ex-military personnel​

BCAS signed the covenant in a ceremony held in April this year at Blighmont Reserve Centre in Southampton, and a number of its members have already followed suit.  

Through its Armed Forces Working Group, the Society aims to provide meaningful support to ex-military personnel as they transition to a career in civilian life. 

The compressed air industry is diverse. It requires specific technical and engineering skills to specify, commission and maintain equipment. It also offers a broad range of other career opportunities in sales and customer service, logistics and administration to name a few.   

Encouraging veterans to consider the compressed air industry

"We know that military experience will equip individuals with many of these skills that are in demand in our sector. Through our working group, we hope to encourage more veterans to consider a career in the compressed air industry," Marsh explained.

"In return, we want to play our part in helping veterans as they transition into a role in civilian life, by offering fulfilling career opportunities; a transition which can be difficult for many. We are therefore encouraging all our members, and the wider compressed air community to consider the benefits that employing military personnel could bring to their business."

To learn more about BCAS’s commitment to the Armed Forces, visit the company’s website at armedforces.bcas.org.uk

To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant, visit www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk

A career in the compressed air industry: An Army veteran’s perspective

After 14 years in the Army, Jason Chapman found settling into civilian work hard. With six jobs in the first 12 months, the Royal Engineer veteran, now turned business development manager for Atlas Copco, explains how the compressed air industry finally helped him feel at home.

Key EU legislation

PFAS and the regulation of forever chemicals

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ are becoming a focal point in EU and UK regulatory activity. With over seven million substances identified according to PubChem and continued widespread use across industry, PFAS substances pose significant environmental and health challenges.

BCAS was involved initially at European level via Pneurop (The European Association of Manufacturers of Compressors, Vacuum Pumps, Pneumatic Tools and Air & Condensate Treatment Equipment, itself a European Sector Association of Orgalim) and its PN14 committee.  The focus was on the use of PFAS in paper filter media before expanding to other Pneurop committees due to the breadth of applications affected. 

The EU REACH/European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) public consultation on PFAS regulation closed in September 2023 and generated an unprecedented volume of over 5,600 responses. Input from Pneurop and BCAS acknowledged the need for a more ‘granular’ approach to regulation and in November last year, the ECHA adopted this approach, with key market sectors identified as priority areas. 

The compressed air sector’s biggest concern to date has been the use of fluorinated gases (F-Gas), which are already regulated, but sealing materials like PTFE, FPM and FFKM are also coming under scrutiny.

F-Gas refrigerant gases

The F-Gas regulation continues to evolve under the frameworks established by the Montreal Protocol (1987) and its Kigali Amendment (2016). The 2024 revision of EU F-Gas regulations aims to reduce reliance on high-GWP refrigerants, pushing the market toward newer, more environmentally friendly alternatives like HFC/HFO blends, which are becoming more widely used.

However, these alternatives come with greater safety challenges due to increased flammability and toxicity and, no suitable plug-and-play replacements currently exist. 

The UK's current F-Gas target aims for a 79 per cent reduction in HFC usage by 2030. Post-Brexit, UK companies must now navigate a separate quota system for F-Gas, distinct from the EU.

One area of concern is the classification of compressed air refrigerated dryer products (CARDs), which are not explicitly recognised under the F-Gas rules. BCAS’s PN14 group has produced position papers to help define categories, including direct expansion systems (SCAC) and intermediate circuit chillers, while also supporting applications for exemptions in Germany, Italy and Belgium. 

BCAS continues to monitor developments in both UK and EU regulatory frameworks closely via the Environment Agency and DEFRA.

Carbon Borders Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

The CBAM is based on the EU’s plan to incentivise industry in third world countries to take climate action and address carbon leakage and embedded emissions.  It mandates emissions reporting and potentially levies carbon costs on imported goods from outside the EU.

The EU’s CBAM covers industries such as cement, steel, aluminium, fertilisers, hydrogen, and electricity and follows suit in the UK, with the exclusion of electricity. 

The transition phase began in Q4 2023 but has not been altogether smooth. Full implementation is expected by January 2026 in the EU and by January 2027 in the UK.

The scheme is not without its challenges. EU27 SMEs, especially export-driven manufacturers, are expected to bear the brunt of disproportionate impacts. Compounding the issue are administrative burdens tied to complex supply chains and the difficulty of accurately tracking embedded emissions.

UK exporters, alongside Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and Turkey face a unique hurdle as they must rely on indirect customs representatives to operate within the EU system. In contrast, third-country manufacturers may gain competitive advantages by sourcing cheaper raw materials and bypassing CBAM altogether, unless these disparities are addressed.

UK updates to reflect the implementation of the EU Machinery Regulation

The EU Machinery Directive has been updated to become the EU Machinery Regulation and comes into force from January 2027.

The UK (we have to be clear, here), technically this is applicable to the GB market, because of Northern Ireland and the Belfast Agreement) has an equivalent implemented regulation vehicle known as The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations.

Since Britain left the EU, there is no requirement to follow EU regulations, but we are continuing to recognise CE marking (and all that this entails, regarding compliance to EU Regulations and Directives).

Therefore, the Government is proposing to update the UK Regulation to align with the EU update.  

Post the passing of the Product Regulation and Metrology Act 2025, the Government’s review will include considering UK adoption of elements of the EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230, which, was introduced post a review of the Machinery Directive.  Entry into force of the new Regulation took place in the EU and NI in July 2023, with an application date of January 2027.

The UK Government has launched a call for evidence, which closes on 20 October 2025 prior to implementing any changes. See Machinery safety legislation: call for evidence - GOV.UK

BCAS has notified its members of the activity and encouraged those with an interest to engage in the process.

In addition, the OPSS has been hosting a series of Machinery Regulation roundtables in Edinburgh, Manchester, Cardiff, Birmingham, during August, September and into October. Use this form to register.

Tim attended the Birmingham session on 11 September to represent the views and needs of BCAS members and the wider compressed air industry.

BCAS’s role in ISO, BSI, and CEN

Beyond legislation, BCAS is helping to shape international and national standards. The organisation is active within ISO’s Technical Committee 118 (TC118), which oversees standards for compressors, pneumatic tools, and related systems.

• SC6 focuses on compressed air systems, with working groups targeting performance specifications (WG1), safety (WG2), and energy management (WG4).
• SC4 addresses compressed air treatment technologies, with the working group (WG1) focused on air purity specification and treatment equipment.

Other recently published standards include:

• ISO 4376 (2024): Test method for cycle energy requirements
• ISO 22484 (2024): Performance test code for low-pressure compressors
• ISO 8573-5 (2025): Measurement of oil vapour contaminants

Tim Preece is technical officer at the British Compressed Air Society 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

When the new Labour Government came into power in May 2024, like every trade association, we were braced for a period of change.

A change in administration always brings with it a certain element of review, especially in the area of standards and legislation.

Navigating a New Political Landscape

For example, despite leaving the EU, we are still seeing many UK regulations updated to align with changes to EU regulations, even though this is no longer mandatory. This is certainly the case with the issue of CE Marking, which you can read more about on page xx and serves as a good example of European regulation continuing to be adapted for the GB market.  

We're waiting with interest to see the outcome of the Government's call for evidence, which closes on the 20 October. But it is encouraging that departments including the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) frequently turn to trade associations for input. Working with our members we can gather genuine input and feedback, helping to lobby for better outcomes for the industry, and its end-users as a whole.

Noise Regulations: Member Input in Action

A good example of this in practice is with the changes to the outdoor noise regulations. Thanks to member input, these accounted for the requirements placed on mobile compressed air equipment, mandating a number of practical and viable adjustments.

It's not just legislation that has been impacted. Our members and the wider industry were naturally concerned when the changes to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) were first announced, requiring engineers to prove professional competency in order to work on construction and new build sites.

Our training and development team were quick to respond with the launch of our NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Installation and Commissioning - an industry first that enables experienced compressed air technicians to prove their professional skills and gain a recognised qualification.

Raising the Bar on Skills and Certification

The resulting Compressed Air Pathway is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition. It is designed so that learners can demonstrate their existing knowledge and credentials, without requiring additional training; a huge benefit for the industry which is already formed of many highly skilled engineers that have years of experience of installing and maintaining compressed air systems.

Elsewhere, changes are on the horizon for apprenticeships, and the BCAS training and development team are keeping an active eye on the Government's new foundation apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships Evolve to Meet Tomorrow’s Needs

From August 2025, foundation apprenticeships were launched in England, including a brand-new pathway for Engineering & Manufacturing. These Level 2 programmes are designed for 16-19-year-olds and typically delivered in 8 months. They combine classroom learning with real-world work experience and are already proving their worth in Scotland, where students can learn practical skills while still at school. We are already exploring the ways in which our existing Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician apprenticeship could be adapted to suit this model in England.

These are supported by changes to apprenticeship funding rules, including simplified off-the-job training hours, stronger recognition of prior learning and flexibility around English and maths qualifications. The changes are designed to increase flexibility for employers and support entry-level routes, particularly in engineering and manufacturing which continue to struggle with skills' shortages.

Market Headwinds

The pressures on the manufacturing sector continue to be felt by our members and between the period from 2021 to the end of 2024, the total number of compressors sold in the UK market has contracted by around 29% (9703 in 2021 versus 6934 in 2024).

This downward trend is certainly worthy of note and while there is no specific analysis, it is probable that rising employer costs, such as the increase in National Insurance contributions and rising minimum wages alongside increased raw material and energy costs are impacting on capital expenditure budgets.

Conversely, volume sales year on year remain very steady, with 569 units sold to the end of Q2 2025 (June) compared to 571 for the same period in 2024, although it would appear that the average kilowatt size of compressors has reduced this year.

The final area of change comes from the BCAS team itself, which has doubled in size in the past year. On the technical standards side, Steve Downham joined Tim Preece as our second technical officer, and we have welcomed both Terry Collier and Fay Hutchinson to our training and development team.

In addition, the BCAS board continues to support the interests and concerns of air users, with continued broad participation from both manufacturer and distributor members.

Ashley Quarterman is executive director at the British Compressed Air Society 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has appointed Steve Downham to further expand its technical team, working alongside Tim Preece as technical officer.

Boosting Vacuum Sector Support

"It’s a pleasure to join the BCAS team and to use my engineering knowledge to help advise members. I’m planning to meet with lots of members and end users over the coming months, using my skills and experience in the vacuum sector to provide timely and practical advice," said Downham.

As a chartered mechanical engineer with a PhD that researched centrifugal pump systems, Downham is no stranger to the world of vacuum technology. For more than 26 years, he has held engineering positions at Edwards Vacuum, latterly as technical lead for new product innovation and research and development.

This wealth of engineering knowledge will be a very welcome addition to the Society’s existing technical capabilities, particularly in supporting vacuum technology members and those who are keen to diversify their offer outside of traditional compressed air applications.

Navigating Legislation and Compliance

Preece will continue to be instrumental in developing standards and legislation and lobbying for the best outcomes for BCAS members.  In partnership, Downham will provide guidance on how members can apply and deliver against the requirements set.

He will also play an integral role in the Society’s Vacuum committee, as well as working with the training and development team to develop new training courses for members and end users.

"We send a very warm welcome to Steve. He has a wealth of knowledge in the vacuum and broader engineering sectors, which will help to strengthen our technical expertise further still," stated Ashley Quartermann, BCAS executive director.

"In an ever-changing legislative landscape, it is vital that trade associations remain abreast of new requirements as well as lobbying for the best outcomes for their members and end users. Steve will play an important advisory role in many of these areas of best practice and improved performance."

For more information:

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464