OnSite #14 - EPC-UK

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Technology to lead, people to deliver
Welcome
Welcome to this Exhibition Edition of Onsite for 2014.
Join us for an update on our current strategy, our innovations and
the people who can deliver the complete solution for you. 2014
has brought growth and optimism back to the economy and we
have been dedicated in our effort to implement our One Vision
plan and ensure growth and the fulfilment of our aspirations.
Leading on Safety
I am very proud of the efforts of all
our teams on creating a safe working
environment and this has been
recognised by the EPC Groupe. Myself,
Ashley Haslett (Head of Operations
& Safety, Health, Environment and
Quality) and Nick Daniels (Head of Site
Operations - Bramble Island) had the
honour of leading an EPC wide Groupe
(see picture opposite) on reviewing and
introducing a new standard for Process
Safety which as you can imagine is
for us, a critical element of our Safety
Management System.
At the time of writing we are hoping for
recognition of our efforts, having been
shortlisted for the Chemical Industry
Awards - Special Responsible Care
Award for Process Safety Leadership
which in itself is an achievement!
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EPC Groupe
Process Safety working group
We have also, as EPC Groupe, taken
the lead at the recent SAFEX Industry
conference in Warsaw which saw eight
attendees from the Groupe with two key
representatives from the UK. Ashley
Haslett and Darrell Howard (Groupe
Supply Chain Manager and Director of
EPC-UK).
Continuing on this theme, EPC-UK
took the bold step of hosting a visit
from CEMTA (Chinese Explosive
Manufacturers Trading Association)
which certainly brought its challenges
but it was a pleasure to demonstrate our
safety culture and best practice ethos
to them during their visit to our Rough
Close Works facilities.
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Leading on Technology
With this issue of Onsite we want to show
you how we have brought innovation
to the market place in all areas of our
business, in Transport and Logistics
“Technology in Transport” on (page 18)
which was exhibited earlier in the year
at the Multimodal exhibition and the
“Race to Track and Trace” on (page 10),
followed by the introduction to market
of a prototype mobile fragmentation
analysis tool which we are showcasing at
Hillhead this year.
A highlight in this edition is an article
on our defence division (EPC-UK
EDSL) which has incorporated all the
capabilities across our business to win a
unique contract, “Competent, complete
secure stewardship” which is the vision of
this division and its activities (page 12).
Strategic Update
“Evolution not Revolution” on (page
6) highlights the consolidation of our
Explosive and Rock on Ground services
to ensure a seamless delivery concept
to the Commercial Explosives Market in
particular the Aggregates and Surface
Mining customers developing our “One
Team” philosophy.
Following our One Vision; One
Company strategy we are excited
by the creation at our Venture
Crescent Location of our Learning and
Development Centre.
Read all about this exciting purpose
built facility and how our people are
focused on delivery for you in this
exhibition edition of Onsite #14.
Ben Williams
Managing Director
CEMTA visit
Sharing Best Practice
At the recent SAFEX conference
hosted in Warsaw Poland on the
19th and 24th May 2014, EPCUK was proud to play a leading
role in sharing Best Practice
within the Explosive Industry.
An introduction to Process Safety
Indicators
Ashley Haslett presented a paper cowritten with Ben Williams on “Introducing
and Using Process Safety Indicators”.
Ashley shared that EPC-UK had
identified the benefits in segregating
Occupational Health and Safety from
Process Safety as part of the overall
safety management system. The
consequences of Process Safety are of a
different complexity and magnitude that
warrants a particular focus by those that
own and manage those risks.
The paper highlights the use of Process
Safety Performance Indicators (PSPI’s)
covering 10 elements with a leading and
lagging indicator for each.
Initially introduced to EPC-UK in 2012
the PSPI’s have been developed and
refined over the interim period. This is
a continually evolving process which
enables operators, supervisors and
managers a transparent continuous
improvement process safety
management system.
Transportation of Explosives
– The Safety Gap
Darrell Howard delivered his paper on
the safety gap created at the moment
the explosive materials or articles are
transported. Darrell gave examples from
around the globe of recent incidents
where the transportation of explosives
has gone disastrously wrong with the
focus being on road transport.
He also illustrated the methods currently
in use to control and reduce the risks,
with examples such as: construction
of the vehicles, GPS tracking, vehicle
alarms and panic buttons to name but a
few.
Darrell revisited the FEEM (Federation
of European Explosive Manufacturers)
guide lines, which create a baseline
and a crisis management template
which every company should use. The
paper gives more details on the risk of
sub-contracting and a proposal for an
agreed standard to be discussed by the
members.
Both papers can be accessed via our
website www.epc-groupe.co.uk
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Creating and learning together
Having recently joined SAFEX, the Chinese Explosives Manufacturing Trade Association
(CEMTA) led a delegation of 16 of its members to the UK to attend an Emulsion Matrix
Masterclass specifically organised for them. Whilst in the UK, EPC-UK hosted a series of
presentations and a visit to Alfreton Rough Close Works site to share experiences learnt over
many years of being a SAFEX member.
The 16 delegates were welcomed
to the company by Ben Williams,
Managing Director of EPC-UK. The
presentations commenced as all
meetings do within EPC-UK with a
Safety Pause being delivered. This
was provided by Ashley Haslett
(Head of Operations & Safety, Health,
Environment and Quality) on the
concept of Visible Felt Leadership
to emphasise the importance that
leadership has in creating and
developing an effective safety culture.
This was followed by Ian Davies (Head
of Commercial Activities) providing an
overview of EPC-UK which included
the history of the EPC Groupe, the
activities and locations where the
Groupe operate, how the market
is serviced within the UK and the
resources deployed. Ashley Haslett then
advised on the European Directive on
traceability of explosives currently being
implemented throughout the European
Union and the EPC Groupe’s solution
.
“
Induction to the site
After a short break, Dr. Mark Pegden
displayed a series of short videos from
around the world illustrating issues that
have arisen within industrial explosives
applications. He then presented
evidence on the advantages of using
electronic detonators to control blasts
in specific circumstances. The session
closed with Andrew Varney (RCW
Works Manager) providing an induction
to the site that they would visit the
following morning, including the
We’re delighted the CEMTA visit went well. I have
EPC
just received an email from Catherine in which she said
how impressed the delegation were with the meticulous
organisation. It is something I could have told them before they
went. There is little doubt in my mind that they would have
learnt a lot not only technically but in other ways too. SAFEX is
very grateful for all the trouble EPC-UK took to make sure the
delegation experienced a world-class facility and world-class
organisation. I am extremely proud of you all.
GROUPE
”
Boet Coetzee
Secretary General,
SAFEX International
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hazards, precautions and emergency
provisions.
On Tuesday 24th September, the
delegation visited our Rough Close
Works site in Alfreton. On arrival they
received a short Safety Pause on the
effects of mishandling explosives.
This comprised of a series of video
clips using a high speed camera to
demonstrate the effects that detonators
and explosives have on the body
when initiated in close proximity.
Factory tour
The delegates then spent time touring
the RCW factory to see the detonator
assembly process; track and trace in
operation; the manufacture of emulsion
matrix; with particular attention given to
process safety and the observation of
safety critical equipment status.
A visit to the laboratory explained the
quality procedures in operation to
maintain our ISO 9001 status and finally
a demonstration of EPC Innovations
variable density technology in practice.
A question and answer session over
lunch provided the opportunity to
provide further explanations through
an Interpreter prior to closure and
departure of the delegates of CEMTA.
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GROUPEX
A new concept for the
cost effective logistics of
Class 1 Explosives
An explosive groupage service, Groupex, optimises
transportation costs within and outside the EPC Groupe.
Historically, the EPC Groupe and
other explosive manufacturers carried
Class 1 goods as part of “specialist
transportation”, subject to the strict
obligations of road transport (ADR),
maritime (IMDG) and air (IATA)
regulations. At the same time,
intermodal transport requires the use of
special containers, which, in the case of
small cargoes, means paying the costs
of empty spaces.
Darrell Howard EPC Groupe Supply
Chain Manager and Director of EPC-UK
explains the Groupex concept.
In the world of logistics, the
“
aim of groupage is to consolidate
small loads in a large container
in order to reduce shipping
costs. This proven concept of
freight has been adopted and
formalised by EPC Groupe
for Class 1 goods. The new
groupage service, Groupex,
involves transporting explosive
materials in a shared container
while combining products in
accordance with authorised
compatibility groups. The
optimised use of containers
means significant transportation
cost savings. The Groupex
solution, specifically designed for
Class 1 products, is unique.
An additional benefit for logistics
The savings are much greater when
Groupex combines regular shipments
coordinated by EPC’s Logistic
teams in France and the UK. These
performances are based on the capacity
within EPC Groupe sites, to consolidate
loads for shipment and on the support
provided by experienced and qualified
personnel in the fields of road, maritime
and air transport.
Operational since September 2013,
Groupex has proved popular among
the companies in the EPC Groupe and
third-party customers.
Darrell Howard
Groupe Supply Chain Manager
and Director of EPC-UK
”
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Evolution not revolution
Due to the economic conditions experienced over the last 2
years, we have consolidated our blasting and explosives services
under one management team to ensure that we meet the
demands of our customers in the quarrying and mining industries.
“I am really excited by this
opportunity to establish
a seamless service to
the mines and quarrying
markets utilising the latest
technology with a very
determined and motivated
team.
”
Ian Knott
Head of Blasting &
Explosives Services
To make these changes we have put a new Management team in place for Services:
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Tony Hollins
Asset Utilisation Manager.
Bob Woolley
Services Manager North.
Neil Handley
Services Manager South (designate).
Tony is responsible for ensuring our
assets are managed and monitored
in order to improve the efficiency of
equipment within the Sales Office. Tony
has a wealth of knowledge of customer
and depot requirements, making him
ideally suited to this role.
Bob is responsible for the safe and
efficient delivery of explosive and
blasting service to all of our customers
in the north. Bob has operated across
both divisions and brings with him
health, safety and environmental
expertise as well as practical
experience to bring the best solutions
to our customers.
This is a development role for Neil with
the close support of Clive Iles. Neil will
be responsible for the safe and efficient
delivery of explosive and blasting
service to all of our customers in the
south on completion of his training.
He has an in depth knowledge and
understanding of the operations and
together with Clive Iles’ support will be
bringing un-rivalled customer service to
the Southern area.
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Prepared for the return of
growth through teamwork!
“2014 has seen EPC-UK
Dave Bridge
Distribution Manager.
Mark Roberts
Special Projects Manager.
Dave is responsible for the health,
safety, environment of depots and
Multiblend operations. Also, the
efficient movement of explosive
products, raw materials to and from
the depots. Dave’s experience of the
efficient running of the southern depots
made him the ideal candidate for this
challenging role.
Mark is responsible for delivering key
projects such as Expertir software;
integration of track and trace systems;
paperless blast specifications; drill rig
logging and many more vital projects
that will bring benefits to our customers
and to the business.
Services secure new
business with additional
volume at key strategic
sites. This new business has
bought a real positive vibe
which means that there is no
time to relax, as we strive to
be the best in class
in everything we do!
”
Ian Knott
Head of Blasting & Explosives Services.
Michael Allen
Civils Manager.
Ian Tasker
South West Operations Manager.
Michael continues in his role as
Civils Manager with his primary role to
manage all EPC-UK’s projects in the
civil engineering sector.
Ian continues in his role ensuring
safe efficient delivery of blasting and
explosive services in the south/west
region using his understanding of the
various demands of the quarrying
industry.
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Taking Rock-on-Ground
services to the next level
Handheld Fragmentation Assessment
System to be Demonstrated at Hillhead.
EPC-UK has always been at the
forefront of introducing new technology
to the drilling and blasting industry in
the UK and is delighted to announce
that it will be demonstrating a new
handheld fragmentation assessment
system at the Hillhead Quarrying
Exhibition in 2014.
portable system is
“This
unique to the UK market
Unique
Ian Davies
Head of Commercial Activities
The Portametric system has been
developed by Motion Metrics
International of Canada. This unique
fragmentation assessment system uses
a specially developed computer with
multiple in-built cameras. The use of
multiple cameras allows the system to
process images of a blast muckpile to
generate a 3-D model. This process
then allows the images to be analysed
to give fragmentation distribution curves
without the need for scaling objects.
The software also allows for numerous
images to be processed, analysed and
used to generate a single distribution
curve summarising the fragmentation in
an entire muckpile.
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and EPC-UK are excited
by the ability to provide an
immediate measurement of
the fragmentation results to
our customers.
”
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DigiShot Electronic Detonator
System to be featured at
Hillhead
Following extensive field trials, EPC-UK is now introducing into
the UK market the DigiShot electronic detonator system. The
system will be available for demonstration on EPC-UK’s stand,
B38, at the Hillhead Quarrying Exhibition.
DigiShot is a well-established system
that has been in use worldwide for
a number of years and gives all the
usual benefits of electronic initiation –
precision delays and full testability.
Technological development
A recently completed technological
development programme has resulted
in new testing equipment for use on
the bench and an upgraded detonator
featuring improved resistance to dynamic
shock pressure, an upgraded fusehead
and a highly robust in-hole wire.
Future planned developments include
an upgraded exploder with remote firing
capability.
The DigiShot system can be used in a
variety of ways from simple on-bench
initiation design to complete design via
initiation planning software.
The DigiShot System
“
represents the pinnacle of
today’s Electronic initiation
technology; the combination
of accuracy, precision and
reliability make it the first choice
for all blasting applications
ranging from quarrying and
mining through to tunnelling and
demolition.
”
Dr Mark Pegden
Senior Explosives Engineer
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The Race to Track & Trace
EPC
GROUPE
The challenge given to the European explosives industry to implement the so called “Track &
Trace Directive” is now approaching the final deadline. With “Tracking” implemented in April
2013, the race to the “Tracing” element of the Regulations is now on! The requirement is for all
packaged civil explosives products to be tracked throughout Europe as of 5th April 2015.
EPC-UK implemented its
system approximately
two years ago with every item being
labelled, scanned and an association
EPC
made with each relevant level of
packaging. As each item is produced,
the
system captures the
data to enable it to be traced throughout
the lifecycle of the product. The final
EPC
stage of the development is an EPC
Groupe initiative. This shall ensure that
each transaction as the products are
moved from the magazines is recorded
throughout the supply chain, providing
the traceability required by the Directive.
Basically capturing the “who”,” what”,
“when” and “where” of every individual
explosives item from the moment of
manufacture, to the final use of the
product.
GROUPE
GROUPE
For those unfamiliar with the obligation,
the EU Directive 2012/4/EU specifies
the requirements for a system for
the identification and traceability of
explosives for civil uses. Within the UK,
the obligation is enacted in legislation
through the “The Identification and
Traceability of Explosives Regulations
2010” (S.I. 2010 No.1004) and
(Amendment) Regulations 2012
(S.I. 2012 No.638).
In summary, those requirements are:
(i) That a unique readable identification
for each explosives article is attached
to it, with an associated barcode,
(ii) A means of recording information
on each uniquely identified article
throughout the supply chain and life
cycle.
(iii) Retention of all information relating
to the unique article during its life
cycle for a period of 10 years
(iv) Regular testing of the data collection
to ensure the effectiveness of the
storage system and quality of the
data recorded
(v) P
roviding competent authorities with
information on any unique article
upon their request
(vi) Appointment and disclosure of
contact details of a person who can
provide information on any unique
article outside of working hours
Implementation in the market
place is evident with the labelling
already taking place.
The format of the readable number
on the labels may appear to differ
between suppliers, but in all instances,
the number shall start with two letters
indicating the country where the
item was manufactured, followed by
three numbers which identify the site
within the country of manufacture.
The fields of the unique number are
harmonised across all of the European
manufacturers, meaning that the
transfer of the data which shall in
most cases be done electronically,
be compatible with the other
manufacturers. This has been achieved
through the Federation of European
Explosives Manufacturers “European
Explosives code Structure”. This is
being closely monitored with the view
to it becoming a globalised standard for
tracing explosives.
EPC-UK are now ready for
the final sprint to a successful
implementation of
For further information on the
implementation of this project, please
contact: Ashley Haslett, Head of
Operations & SHEAQ, EPC-UK,
ashley.haslett@epc-groupe.co.uk
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EPC
GROUPE
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Seminars 2015
In 2015, EPC-UK will once again be holding a series of these
biannual seminars which will help to share best practice in the
industry. This will be our fifth series of successful seminars.
ACCREDITED
These will be held in the following
locations: Cumbernauld Scotland,
Ambleside Lake District,
Nottinghamshire and Newport in
Wales, more details will be provided
soon.
In 2013 attendees were asked for
feedback and the results received
were extremely positive...
As in previous years the Institute of Quarrying will endorse this event as a CPD
event which will count towards the annual total hours training that we are all
expected to achieve, CPD certificates will be given out to all attendees.
More details to follow soon, however if you would like to speak to us about these
events please contact julia.nixon@epc-groupe.co.uk
Delivered well, very clear &
useful information given out
to a wide audience.
Excellent presentations and
I can take back to my site
new techniques to improve
blast efficiency.
Very enjoyable day
- all subjects informing
and relevant.
Overall an excellent set of
presentations & worthwhile
attending it has given me a
good deal to think about.
EPC-UK seminar fast facts...
In 2013, over 250 delegates
attended the Best Practice
Seminars
The Seminars received
97% positive feedback
Topics covered included:
Security, Flyrock, Blast Performance
Monitoring and Track & Trace
Over 1500 CPD hours
worth of certificates were issued
Well presented and
understandable, useful
information gained.
Follow us on twitter
@EPC_UKplc
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Competent, complete,
In late 2013, EPC-UK was awarded the contract for the storage,
transport and disposal of time expired pyrotechnics (TEP) for the
UK Maritime Coastguard Agency. This long term contract will take
advantage of EPC-UK’s nationwide network primarily managed
by the EDSL team at the 1200 acre Bramble Island site.
TEPs pose a significant danger to
the public and should be disposed of
safely by experts in legally compliant
burning operations. The make-up
of pyrotechnics include explosive
content that makes handling them
particularly hazardous especially
when the body is exposed to water
over a protracted period. The Ministry
of Defence suspended pyrotechnic
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disposal operations in 2010. However,
given the risks to public safety, the
MCA continued to accept TEPs from
members of the public for disposal via
a commercial contract. This contract
operates from EPC-UK’s remote
Bramble Island site with its extensive
explosives storage facilities and
licensed destruction grounds.
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secure stewardship
EPC-UK’s solution provides the
MCA with complete, competent and
fully legally-compliant solution that
addresses all the MCA’s requirements.
The 18 MCA storage and collection
sites reach as far north as Stornaway
and the Shetland Islands and all the
way south to Brixham and Falmouth.
TEPs are transported under Approval
for Vehicles Carrying Dangerous
Goods by Road (ADR) issued by the
Department for Transport and destroyed
at the Bramble Island HSE licensed
destruction grounds. EPC-UK also
provides stand-alone training packages
to support the safe handling of TEPs by
MCA staff, Coastguard Rescue Officers
and RNLI Volunteers. This included
an immediate roll out of Continuation
Training and General Handling Training
to bring MCA staff competency back to
an acceptable standard.
EPC-UK Project Team
Each of 18 MCA sites are to record
the number of TEPs received on the
online manifest system, which allows
the EPC-UK Project Team and the MCA
Management staff the capability to
review the status of each site’s storage
capacity and also automatically trigger
a collection when a site reaches a
certain threshold. EPC-UK also maintain
and update the appropriate licences/
registrations on behalf of the MCA for
both their Operational pyrotechnics and
TEPs.
15 collections have been carried out
in the first five months from just nine
of the sites, amounting to 774 kg NEQ
of TEPs, re-enforcing the extent of the
problem posed to the MCA from these
life saving devices.
This project is unique in
“
that it has brought together
a combination of resources
across EPC-UK in a very
different manner including
our IT department where we
integrated a new web portal
for the customer.
Gavin Shiell
”
Operations Manager EPC-UK EDSL
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With an annual turnover of
£9 billion and 70,000 people
employed in the UK alone,
the mineral products industry
plays a key role in supporting
the UK economy and people’s
everyday lives.
Working Together
Providing a stimulating and diverse environment to work within, the industry offers
a plethora of job opportunities, ongoing training and the prospect to work within a
variety of disciplines in a globally growing sector. Within the UK alone, there are an
estimated 1000 aggregate quarries, 11 cement works, 1010 ready mixed concrete
plants and 310 asphalt plants.
Career Progression Pathway
Despite this, a demographic time bomb was foreseen within the industry. Faced
with an aging workforce, the average current age of employees being over 55 &
with difficulty recruiting in the sector. The creation and focus of the PRIME project
sets to address these problems, by opening up the doors to the industry, assisting
in providing a continuous career progression pathway, truly embracing workforce
involvement and promoting the development of individuals.
Above; John Morgan receiving his Professional Recognition Certificate.
For more information on the
PRIME project please visit
the Institute of Quarrying or
MPQC at Hillhead 2014
in stand H3 or the
registration area.
You can also contact the Institute of
Quarrying direct at anytime on
mail@quarrying.org
+44 (0)115 972 9995.
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The project will additionally provide a platform to promote the importance of CPD
at all levels within the industry. Assisting with existing workforce engagement and
making career prospects within the sector known. Used as a vehicle to promote the
upskilling and forward development of individuals through “TPD” Total Professional
Development working towards a fully competent workforce and achieving ‘Target
Zero’ in the industry.
Active Workforce Engagement
Marking an important milestone for the Institute and reflective of the changing
world around us, a new grade of membership came into effect 1 January 2014.
Technical Membership or ‘TMIQ’ fits between the current Associate and Member
grades, enabling a number of individuals currently falling into the existing Associate
category to enhance their membership level and entitling them to use the
designation ‘TMIQ’.
Creation of the new TMIQ member grade ties in with the PRIME project. The project
goes someway to formally recognising contributions made as professionals by
senior operatives, foreman and supervisors in addition to encouraging a more active
workforce engagement. The implementation of the new grade was additionally a
step to ensuring the needs of members continue to be met as it nears its 100 years
of existence. The new grade will also further promote recognition outside of the
industry, broadening the appeal for new members, encouraging new blood coming
into the sector and ensuring its future sustainability. TMIQ’s introduction takes a
step towards providing greater recognition to the unsung heroes of the Industry,
recognising the commitment made by individuals.
Providing recognition to people within their role is seen as key in pushing the
professionalism of the sector forward. In turn this brings additional benefits such as
attracting new generations into the industry, retaining and further developing those
within it, along with ensuring it is viewed as being both highly competent and world
class in its aspirations and achievements with a motivated, committed workforce.
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Epc-uk showcases
integrated solutions
in counter terrorism
EPC-UK recently returned to the Counter Terror Expo to
showcase its specialist, integrated solutions in the supply,
storage and transportation of defence and security solutions.
EPC-UK has extensive knowledge and
technical understanding of the needs
of civil defence customers, making it
ideally equipped to deliver a singlesource supply chain for total customer
peace of mind. Dedication to safety
and security are complemented by
the highest standards of professional
service.
Integrated Solutions
The company is the sole UK agent
for renowned manufacturers such as
Combined Systems Inc., as well as an
agent for the likes of Eurenco Bofors,
Explosia and Event Horizon. Many
of their products were on display at
Counter Terror Expo, giving visitors
the opportunity to examine some of
the most sophisticated crowd control
technology in the world.
Yet while the exhibition stand focussed
on less-lethal munitions and delivery
systems, EPC-UK has been keen to
highlight the truly comprehensive,
value-added nature of its integrated
solutions.
Strategic Alliances
This presence is augmented with
dedicated depots throughout the UK,
a fleet of EXII and EXIII vehicles for
overland transportation and strategic
alliances globally for import, export and
cross-trade.
In addition to our extensive
“
range of products and
accessories, EPC-UK offers
extensive secure and bonded
storage facilities, plus a
multimodal transport network
for hazardous chemicals, Class
1, Section 5 and protectively
marked goods.
The Counter Terror Expo
has been the ideal arena to
demonstrate how our values
of safety and professionalism
extend to all areas of our
business.
”
Joe Doherty
Commercial Manager EPC-UK EDSL
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Building tomorrow’s talent
Our Centralised Learning and Development Function experienced
a magnificent first year, 65 of the industry’s budding talent passed
through this learning centre in 2013. This year we plan to build on
this, with a purpose built training facility.
EPC-UK is extremely passionate about raising competency levels. Our mission
working with industry awarding bodies such as MPQC (Mineral Products
Qualifications Council) and NSA (National Skills Academy) is to deliver bespoke
courses, related to core competencies. We host them at our EPC-UK Head Office
focused on our customer’s individual needs.
The courses are run by Dr Mark Pegden (Senior Explosives Engineer) and Dr Rob
Farnfield (Head of Explosives Engineers). Building on the success of these relaxed,
informal learning sessions EPC-UK has plans to develop our own purpose built
training centre within our Venture Crescent site by the end of 2014.
Shotfiring
MPQC Module 1
Duration 4 Days:
Cost £1415 + 20% VAT
£1615 + 20% VAT
including examination
Explosives Supervisor
MPQC Modules 2,3, & 4
Duration 4 Days
Cost £1288 + 20% VAT
£1588 + 20% VAT including examination
9th - 12th September
18th - 21st November
3rd - 6th September
12th - 15th November
Courses are currently held at the Nottingham Belfry Hotel, course rate includes
morning and afternoon drinks and a 2 course lunch.
For course bookings please contact:
Karen Brown at EPC-UK
Venture Crescent, Alfreton,
Derbyshire DE55 7RA
Tel: 01773 832253
Email: karen.brown@epc-groupe.co.uk
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Growth through technology
Last year EPC-UK Additives division at Bramble Island
commissioned a pilot facility to recover a waste 77% sulphuric
acid stream. Over 20 potential customers have received
samples / trial loads and two outlets have taken 800 tonnes
over the last 6 months.
Feedback from other users is mainly concerned with residual organics in the acid
causing downstream problems. Our Technical team has been working on 2 ways
to solve this. Firstly we have designed a unique Automatic Analyser with Metrohm
of Switzerland. This will enable the 2EHN, cetane improver process recipe to be
made leaner in nitric acid and hence reduce organic material in by-product acid.
Secondly we have screened several activated carbon treatments and found one that
lowers the odour in a ferric sulphate solution. This chemical is used as a flocculant
for water treatment and several large manufacturers have shown an interest for this
application.
Commercial breakthrough
A recent breakthrough has seen EPC-UK secure a 7,500 tonnes / year customer
for cleaning steel prior to galvanising. This will require further expansion of the
production facility and will enable us to exceed our planned recovery tonnage.
Increased sales of 2EHN depend on the amount of RSA we can recycle so as well
as beating targets given to the Environment Agency we gain more revenue. Another
benefit is the potential for EPC-UK Transport Division to carry the product to an
increasing number of destinations.
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Technology in Transport
EPC-UK’s Transport division continues to grow through 2014.
To meet the increased demand we have taken delivery of a
new 13.5 ton EX111 Rigid (compartmental) Box Van that will
operate out of our Rough Close Works plant in Alfreton.
Instant Communication
This vehicle will have a state of the
art specification including CCTV
camera with continual recording
whilst the vehicle is in motion and
incident data analysis incorporating
camera integration.
Additional Security
Internally, the box compartment has been fitted with side load lock and floor
lashing rings that will prevent the pallets and/or boxes from moving whilst the
vehicle is in transit. This vehicle will join the transport fleet fulfilling the needs
of our internal ‘Services’ business and their customers.
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Transportation of Oleum
In June 2014, we will take delivery
of three new 29 tonne Road Barrel
tanks. These new tanks shall operate
out of EPC-UK’s Bramble Island facility
and will be used for the transportation
of Oleum, a raw material used in the
manufacturing of Cetane Improver
(2EHN) under EPC-UK’s
Additives division.
For the first time EPC-UK
“
exhibited at Multimodal as
EPC-UK Transport, exhibiting
as specialists in global logistics
for all Class 1 explosives and
other hazardous materials. Our
unique service offer certainly
differentiated us from the
majority of other exhibitors and
attracted much attention.
We are confident that over the
3 days we were successful
in promoting EPC-UK as first
choice for transportation and
supply chain management both
domestically and globally, in
this niche and specialist part of
the market. We have already
had several enquiries directly
as a result of our attendance
and we are looking forward to
making a further appearance at
Multimodal in 2015.
Sam Adams
Commercial Manager
Sam Adams, Commercial Manager together with Andy McKee, Head of logistics UK.
”
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Demolition
On 28th April 2014 the skyline of Birmingham was once again
changed forever due to the use of Electronic Detonators as
Stafford Tower, a former hall of residence for Aston University,
was demolished to make way for a new entrance to the University.
This was the third 1970s tower block
demolished at Aston, with Dalton and
Lawrence towers razed to the ground in
2011. As previously, HotShot Detonators
were the system of choice together with
the EPC-UK Explosives Engineering
Department being employed as
consultants by the Precision Demolition
Company who carried out the work on
behalf of DSM Demolition Ltd.
Accuracy and precision
Perfect timing was the order of the day
with a mere 8m clearance on either side
of the building and only an 18m footprint
to the front to land the 21 storey
building. All of the Engineers working
on this demolition commented on the
sheer close proximity of the surrounding
buildings with this being one of the
closest operations ever undertaken.
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Accuracy and precision triumphed in
the end with an absolutely perfectly
controlled unwavering collapse which
once more demonstrated why the
industry leaders select Electronic
Detonators as the initiation system
of choice.
Charity Golf Day
EPC-UK will host a second charity golf day in order to raise
funds for our chosen charity Hand on Heart.
Hand on Heart has a simple goal:
to prevent the deaths of the 12 young
people who die due to sudden cardiac
arrest each week.
The event will take place on
Tuesday 2nd September 2014
at Macdonald Portal Golf & Spa
Hotel, Tarporley, Cheshire.
Due to the success of the 2013 event,
we anticipate that 2014 will be bigger
and better, so if you would like to take
part in this special event or require any
more information please get in touch at:
Events at EPC-UK, 1 Venture Crescent,
Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 7RA or
email events@epc-groupe.co.uk
We do hope you will be able to support
this very worthwhile charity and look
forward to welcoming you on the day.
In 2013 we raised a total of
“
£2500, which has enabled us
to pay for the installation and
training of 2 defibrillators, one
at a school in the north and
one in a school in the south.
We are very proud of this
achievement.
”
Ben Williams
Managing Director
Presentation of defibrillator to Westhouses
Primary School, Nr Alfreton.
Presentation of defibrillator to All Saints
Primary School, Great Oakley.
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Technology Makes
way for Ecology
EPC-UK is very proud of maintaining and improving its impact
on the environment, this is no better highlighted than by our
Great Oakley Hall Estate Manager, Roger Pile.
Onsite caught up with Roger to discuss
his recent initiatives in the continual
environmental improvement scheme.
Roger explained that to achieve this
environmental, wildlife and agricultural
management responsibility, the farm
have recently carried out a number of
tasks.
• The planting of buffer strips around
the fields next to water courses,
these are managed as low intensity
grassland for purposes such as
creating new habitats.
• The less productive arable land in the
field corners has now been managed
to provide increased wildlife, wild bird
seed mixtures have now been planted
to provide important food resources
for farmland birds, whilst also
providing a source of invertebrates
for the birds.
• An area of nectar flower mixture has
been sown to boost the availability
of essential food sources for a range
of nectar feeding insects including
butterflies and bumblebees. We have
also left 6m plots unseeded as this will
provide a suitable habitat for Skylarks
throughout the breeding season.
Agri-environment
The Farm has recently been entered in
the Cross compliance scheme based
on responsible and environmental
care on the farm, good agricultural
condition and statutory management
requirements and also the Entry Level
Scheme, this is an agri-environment
scheme that is open to all farmers
and land managers across England
who enter into voluntary management
agreements with Natural England.
Since we have been running these various schemes we
“
have seen an increase in the wildlife on the farm, which shows
with careful and thoughtful management arable farming and
the environment can benefit one another. We are therefore
providing opportunities to improve our wildlife and landscapes
and natural resources.
”
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Roger Pile Estate Manager
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EPC-UK welcomes the
following new starters:
Emily Burrows joined EPC-UK in
February 2014 as an Apprentice
Receptionist/Administrator, working at
our Head Office in Alfreton.
Bryan Wombwell joined EPC-UK
in January 2014 as a Sales Ledger
Administrator, working at our Head
Office in Alfreton.
David Hibbitt joined EPC-UK in
April 2014, Dave will be the Assistant
Transport Planner, based in the
Transport office at Rough Close Works.
Other appointments include:
Wayne Probert 10/02/2014
Driller
David Gough 24/03/2014
HGV Driver
Carl Dipper 01/04/2014
HGV Driver
Jaqueline Tobbell 14/04/2014
Freight Forwarding Co-ordinator
David Windle 14/04/2014
Shotfirer – Northern Area
Sharon Thorpe 18/04/2014
Catering Assistant
Anthony Chidley 28/04/2014
Driller
Adrian Taylor 06/05/2014
Trainee Multiblend Multiskilled Operator
Paul Walton 07/04/2014
Trainee Multiblend,
Multiskilled Operator
Louise Lavery 12/05/2014
Sales & Distribution Office Administrator
Andrew Pownall 10/02/2014
Depot Co-ordinator
Tracey Hatton 24/03/2014
Credit Controller
For our latest vacancies
join our group on Linkedin.
Fond Farewell
We also say farewell and the best
of luck to Francine Clarke (Credit
Controller) who retired recently after 36
years loyal service, pictured here with
Alan Longden EPC-UK Head of finance.
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Vintage Nick!
Nick Daniels - Head of Site Operations
Nick Daniels, Head of Site Operations at our EPC-UK Additives
division based at Bramble Island explains his passion for both
chemicals and mechanicals.
Nick has been married to Tina for 35 years with two daughters; starting his working
life in an Explosives Laboratory Nick moved to Courtaulds in Derby as a Plant
Technician; this was to be Nick’s stepping stone into the world of chemicals, as
Courtaulds sponsored him on a degree at the Nottingham Trent University. Nick
has since worked his way up through technical, production to commercial and then
finally onto management.
Gearing up for a challenge
Innovative Achievements
Nick joined EPC-UK back in 2003,
employed to manage the 2EHN Fuel
Additive business, over the last 11 years
he has worked with the team to proudly
see the output grow. Today Nick looks
after Bramble Island Site Operations
including our EDSL Division and
supporting the newly formed Transport
division.
Nick and his wife share a passion for
gardening but you will often find Nick in
the garage working on his 50 year old
AJS or Matchless Motorbikes, which he
will often ride to work and occasionally
take to the race track, He is also
a member of Great Oakley Parish
Council, and is currently helping them to
raise funds for a new village Hall.
Operations at the site are quite
diverse with 2EHN being continually
produced all year round and Explosives
work ranging from boat handling
to missile assembly and grounds
maintenance. The Technical & Projects
Department also falls within Operations
and they have delivered some
innovative achievements over the last
decade.
‘Safety First’ is Nick’s favourite
watchword having seen the benefits
of a systematic approach to reducing
risk can bring. Nick proudly displays his
NEBOSH certificate “with distinction” in
the office, and he is also an advocate
of business improvement tools such as
Lean, Sigma, PDR, 5S, and BIT.
“
”
Spot the difference
We had lots of great entries for our
name the pony competition and in the
end we chose the name Biscuit which
was entered by Gabrielle Fasey who
won a selection of top quality wines.
Above are pictures of our newest addition to the EPC-UK fleet family.
There are 6 differences between the pictures, if you can find them all
send in your entry to competition@epc-groupe.co.uk and you could
win a selection of wine.
Venture Crescent, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 7RA Tel: 01773 832253 Fax: 01773 520723
e-mail: info@epc-groupe.co.uk Website: www.epc-groupe.co.uk
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