A successful start to 2024: ORS company update
We’re incredibly grateful to say that it has been a busy and exciting start to 2024 here at ORS. We have been working on some great projects for both new and existing clients, as well as undertaking more projects in the application of intumescent paint. This has been a core offering of ORS for quite some time, however new building regulations surrounding fire safety has increased enquiries and subsequent projects for this service. The application of intumescent coatings to structural building elements is a pivotal process in the fire protection of refurbished buildings. We’re really enjoying immersing ourselves in all things intumescent, and this has included recently leading a mission to spread awareness about the importance of employing qualified contractors.
Enhancing our commitment to health and safety
We started this year off by demonstrating our commitment to health and safety in extending our accreditation with CHAS, as well as achieving ‘CHAS Advanced’. This provides our clients with the evidence that we are dedicated to ensuring safe working environments across all of our projects. We were also proud to be named safe contractor of the month on a recent project for Faircloth Construction.
Given the inherent risks involved in our line of work, prioritising health and safety (not just for ORS operatives but also for our fellow contractors and associates) remains paramount in all of our processes.
Intumescent paint expertise
Due to changes in building regulations, this year has seen an increase in the demand for experienced applicators in intumescent paint, and therefore, we have certainly been busy in this area. Intumescent coatings have a different purpose to a solely aesthetic finish; the paint expands when exposed to heat and therefore in the event of a fire, it will offer a longer time period of escape becoming a powerful differentiator in the protection of human life. Our team is highly skilled and knowledgeable in this area, and we are committed working closely with main contractors and intumescent manufacturers to ensure the appropriate products are applied accurately. This commitment has led us to secure new clients this year on large refurbishment projects.
Additionally, our director, Jo Thornicroft, shared a call for minimum industry standard regulations to be enforced in Building Design magazine. This article highlights the pivotal role of intumescent paint in fire safety and the urgent need for regulatory oversight in this critical area.
Project spotlight: Severs House
Our team recently revived the appearance at Servers House in Thirsk by re-spraying various elements of the building’s steel interior. A big part of this project included the reception’s main feature, its staircase structure, which had previously been brush painted. Our team set to work by preparing the structure by de-greasing and carrying out light abrasion to ensure optimal adhesion and a sleek finish, before spraying the handrail, spindles, risers and all associated structural steel and columns.
In addition to the staircase, we revitalised the curtain walling frames and doors at the main entrance, as well as the frames to windows on the first floors and steel works beneath the boardroom table.
Project spotlight: Altrincham Business Park
Having previously undertaken various work at Altrincham Business Park, we returned to this local site for our eighth project at the park – a large-scale transformation of Unit 3 Edward Court. As an Altrincham based business, it is important to us that we maintain local relationships, and we love giving the buildings of our area a revived look and feel!
This project’s preparation included the treatment of corrosion and making good of redundant screw holes, followed by the re-spray of all aluminium polyester powder-coated windows, doors and curtain walling frames to all elevations. We also re-sprayed the high-level columns and associated braces to match. Ultimately, we transformed the whole aesthetic of the building, from the dated green frames popular in decades past, to the modern and sleek look and feel produced by the re-spray in anthracite grey.
Looking to the future
With new services, new and returning client relationships and achievement in accreditation, we are pleased with our achievements so far this year and we are looking forward to the prospects that lie ahead.
