PLUMBING & DRAINAGE Enhancing pedestrian safety


ULMA Architectural has introduced a four-point fixing system to its Heelguard B125 grating, doubling the number of anchoring points found in many commonly used solutions in the UK.


A One man’s trash…


Duraproducts’ circular manufacturing system allows its products to be recycled at end of life. However, the company is also able to recycle a variety of waste polymers from across the construction industry.


Sutton explains: “We haven’t had significant volumes of our own products returned. Typically, they only come back to us at the end of a scheme. In effect, that means we are currently providing end-of-life solutions for products from other industries.


“We hold BBA HAPAS (Highways Authorities Product Approval Scheme) approval for Durakerb, which is required for products installed on highway schemes. We also maintain a Technical Specification Data Sheet (TDS) for our materials, and we won’t use any feedstock unless it meets the requirements of the BBA HAPAS specification.


“We use thermoplastic polymers such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) which are ideally suited for recycling.”


s urban areas continue to densify and pedestrian zones increasingly overlap with vehicle access points, the demand for


more secure, long-lasting drainage systems grows. Among the factors often overlooked in these systems is the importance of grating fixation—an element that directly impacts performance, durability, and user safety. The Heelguard B125 grating is designed for installation on the RapidSelf channel system, a domestic drainage range that prioritises easy, tool-free installation. Combined with its B125 load rating (capable of withstanding up to 12.5 tonnes), heel-friendly slot design, and anti-slip surface, the enhanced fixing system adds a layer of security that supports long-term performance in both residential and light commercial environments.


The four-point fixing structure offers greater resistance to displacement, reducing the risk of rattling, loosening over time, or even dislodgement.


The infrastructure sector continues to evolve, with a transition from loading A15 to B125 in the urban areas, and ULMA says its decision to adopt four-point fixing reflects its broader shift toward preventative design thinking, investing in details to mitigate future maintenance and safety risks. The company believes subtle innovations like these may become the standard in urban drainage design.


www.ulmaarchitectural.co.uk


“Our products are accredited by the BBA to align with the requirements of recently updated National Highways MCHW CC207 polymeric kerb standards.” Meaning Durakerb can now be installed on major schemes without the requirement for onerous departures from standards.


“Our principal feedstocks today come from industrial packaging waste streams. We work closely with material processors who understand the requirements of our HAPAS certification. They formulate material blends that meet our performance needs. Over the last 24 months, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of suppliers capable of doing this.


“When Duraproducts was founded 20 years ago, there were probably only two material suppliers in the UK that could meet our specification requirements.


“The civil sector is very traditional, and February 2026 www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net


innovation takes time to reach specification stages. However, the number of suppliers offering recyclable materials has grown significantly.


“It’s also important that the sector remains open to net zero products. Local authorities, National Highways and tier one contractors all have strong commercial incentives to adopt more sustainable practices, particularly with the UK’s 2025 net zero targets still in place.” “There is a growing commercial


opportunity. We receive enquiries for all kinds of applications where Durakerb is suitable, so we’ve streamlined distribution through TCS Geotechnics. They have established relationships with major buying groups and merchants such as EH Smith, Travis Perkins, Burdens and Keyline, and they manage those enquiries on our behalf. As volume grows, we expect to continue expanding our stockists across the country.” BMJ


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