EDITOR’S COMMENT & CONTENTS Putting safety first in building services


A


s our buildings become increasingly complex and integrated with advanced systems, the importance of safety, including fire safety, cannot be overstated. In this month’s issue, we spotlight three key areas where heightened awareness and action are essential.


First, we tackle a common but dangerous oversight:


fire safety in riser shafts. Too often, building owners assume these vertical spaces are benign, yet they can act as powerful chimneys during a fire, spreading smoke and flames rapidly between floors. Educating building owners about some of the misconceptions is key. (Pg26) This was also highlighted by riser shaft specialist Ambar Kelly at BSEE’s Building Services Forum held last month.


Second, we focus on lift systems – essential for daily operations but potentially hazardous without proper


upkeep. Poorly maintained lifts can lead not only to mechanical failure but also pose serious safety risks during emergencies. It’s important to understand the responsibilities and obligations of the duty holder and their role in achieving compliance. (Pg22) Finally, with the increasing reliance on battery systems for energy storage and backup power, preventing failures has never been more crucial. The key to this could be proactive battery symmetry monitoring. See page 24 for more. Prioritising these safety measures is a responsibility that will help us build environments that are not only smart and efficient, but above all, safe. Other features this month include: Building Controls


& Technology, Efficiency in Education and Medical Buildings, and ASHPs & GSHPs.


Heather Ramsden, Editor From the Editor 8 21 28


Editor: Heather Ramsden hramsden@datateam.co.uk Tel: 07974 903 726


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The Editor and Publisher do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters, the Editor’s decision is final. This issue includes editorial and imagery provided and paid for by suppliers.


ISSN 1042-310


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4 News & Appointments Industry news, appointments and quotes


6 Building Controls & Technology Noise protection is key to compliance in telecommunications AC systems


8 Building Controls & Technology Light monitoring dashboards: a tool for building management


9 Industry Comment The building controls and automation sector must not stand still


10 Low Carbon Solutions Increasing use of R32 for larger VRF air conditioning


12 Cover Story Sensors by Belimo. The perfect complement to actuators and valves


16 Humidity Control Controlling humidity in museums and galleries


18 Efficiency In Medical & Educational Buildings Making maintenance pay in cash strapped schools


19 Humidity Control What is steam humidification?


20 Efficiency In Medical & Educational Buildings Smart energy management for healthcare and higher education


21 Efficiency In Medical & Educational Buildings Are schools and hospitals missing out on a solar power gold-mine?


22 Safety, Fire & Security Lift maintenance and inspection: what you need to know


24 Safety, Fire & Security Prevent costly battery failures before they happen


26 Safety, Fire & Security Educating building owners on the misconceptions of fire safety in riser shafts


28 Air Source & Ground Source Heat Pumps Beyond boilers: the heat pump revolution


30 Air Source & Ground Source Heat Pumps Turning up the heat on noise


31 Installation News


High Efficiency Condensing Gas Water Heaters Designed For Commercial Refurbishment


- Glass-lined or stainless steel for all UK water conditions - Compact floor-standing & wall-hung models - Full supporting range of cylinders and solar thermal options


- GAS WATER HEATERS - CYLINDERS - SOLAR THERMAL - LIVE METERING - HEAT PUMPS - ELECTRIC BOILERS -PACKAGED SYSTEMS - PLANT ROOMS - 01252 551 540 enquiries@adveco.co Adveco.co Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk Adveco qp BSEE Jun25.indd 1 6/5/25 11:52 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JUNE 2025 3


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