The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) has written to the Health Secretary, The Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP, asking employees of manufacturers and distributors of cleaning and hygiene products be eligible for priority testing for the coronavirus Anyone over the age of five who exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 – a temperature, cough and the loss of the sense of taste and smell – is now able to secure a test for coronavirus. Essential workers in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland can apply for priority testing through GOV.uk. These tests are prioritised over those made available to the wider public through the NHS.

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In these challenging times for our industry, high quality technical support is more valuable than ever. Adam Buxey, Altro’s new Technical Services Manager, explains how Altro has embraced new ways of working and tailored its support to meet the ever-evolving demands of an industry needing to work smart.

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As UK businesses prepare to get workers back into the office – many having to put measures in place to protect employees while facing a sudden need to cut costs – a cost-effective and environmentally friendly 3-Way-Desk-Shield has been introduced to the market for the first time to offer protection and reassurance. In response to government guidelines on social distancing within offices, design, fit out and workplace consultancy Office Principles has created a 100% recyclable desk shield from 80% recycled materials, which can be used in offices recalibrated for social distancing. The wipeable, cardboard desk shield provides a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to Perspex at £31.95 per screen.

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The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) is warning all buyers of cleaning and hygiene products to beware of unscrupulous profiteers capitalising on the unprecedented demand for these products. New companies have been set up to buy and sell on products like hand and surface sanitisers, gloves, wipes, tissue and aprons. Some are also buying up raw materials and attempting to produce some products. Primarily selling online, their products carry an exceptionally high mark-up and there is no guarantee they meet industry standards. There is also a marked increase in imported Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) with fake or no CE marking, the certification mark that indicates conformance with European Union directives regarding health and safety or environmental protection.

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Incorporating some of the most advanced technical features in safety shoe design. With all the Hallmarks you find in Snickers Workwear – quality, comfort, durability and street-smart style, Solid Gear safety shoes and boots are fast becoming one of the most popular brands chosen by discerning tradesmen and women.

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As part of its comprehensive preparations and new operating procedures for the reopening of venues, etc.venues has developed a new programme to deliver cleanliness and disinfection in its venues. In a new move the company will collaborate with Cleanology, with its scientific approach to cleaning and with Navitas (formally known as the European Safety Bureau) – who will audit venues to the new Covid Controlled Certification scheme.

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As lockdown measures begin to ease, many UK office workers are concerned about going back to the office – with worries rife over being able to maintain social distancing (59%) and appropriate hygiene and cleaning standards (44%), according to new research. The YouGov poll, for the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management surveyed office workers across the country to reveal that over a third (34%) are concerned about getting used to a corporate office culture again after the lockdown.

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The UK’s used car market declined by -8.3% in the first quarter of 2020, according to the latest figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Growth in January and February, up 2.9% and 4.0% respectively, was wiped out by a -30.7% fall in March, making it the lowest March on record as coronavirus lockdown measures that came into effect partway through the month closed retailers.

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Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation, energy management, and automation, has announced a series of webinars that explore the benefits and pitfalls of incorporating modern technologies into building systems. Schneider Electric is looking to support facility managers to develop strategies for creating the next generation of buildings.

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The coronavirus is having a significant impact on the cleaning and hygiene supply sector. CHSA members are now facing the most challenging trading conditions they have experienced. The fragility of the ‘just in time’ supply chain combined with unprecedented demand for certain products and greatly reduced production capacity presents significant challenges. The uncertainty about whether the high volumes of products bought by customers has been used or allocated to stock compounds the challenge. Where previously demand was predictable, it is now uncertain.

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