New Apprenticeship Reforms The Government’s Post‐16 Education and Skills White Paper aims for two‐thirds of young people to participate in higher‐level learning by the age of 25, including at least 10% pursuing higher technical education or apprenticeships. To help meet this target and prepare young people for work, further reforms to apprenticeships have been announced: As part […]
Use of Common Assessment Standard Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has confirmed that suppliers bidding for its new £120 billion Construction Works and Associated Services 3 including ProCure 24 (CWAS3) framework will need to be certified to the Common Assessment Standard in line with PPN 03/24. The eight‐year framework will run from January 2027 until January 2035. The invitation […]
Hard Hats Why Have Hard Hat Colours Changed? In April 2016, a new hard hat colour-coding system was introduced across the UK construction industry. The purpose of this system is simple: to clearly identify people on site by their role and safety qualifications. By using consistent colours nationwide, workers can instantly recognise who is responsible for what […]
New eLearning Module Launched for the Fencing Industry by LineWatch We’re pleased to announce the launch by LineWatch of a new eLearning module designed specifically for the fencing industry. This free, online module has been developed to support landowners, contractors, farm workers, and others operating within the sector to better understand safe digging practices and […]
Fencing Structure Types 1. Steel Palisade Fence Palisade fencing has been the primary choice for perimeter security for decades. Providing protection against theft and intrusion, it is known for its sturdiness and is easily recognisable by the vertical steel pales and sharp profile. Structure Made of steel, the palisade fence is constructed with two horizontal […]
International Women’s Day As part of the AFI’s ongoing commitment to recognising, highlighting and promoting women across the fencing industry, we are currently updating the Women in Fencing page on the AFI website. The page showcases the wide range of roles women hold within our sector — from office-based and operational roles to leadership and on-site positions […]
Preparing for the Employment Rights Act The Employment Rights Bill received Royal Assent on 18 December 2025, paving the way for significant reforms to employment law over the next two years. The changes fall broadly into three categories: new rights and protections for workers; fair pay, terms and working conditions; and enforcement and trade unions. The first […]
Lawsons Group Provides Materials for Jamaica in Aftermath of Hurricane Melissa From 21st October to November 4th 2025 Hurricane Melissa wreaked devastation across Jamaica. The CEO of Trizone Electrical Services Ltd, Tazio Heath, was in Jamaica when the hurricane struck. “The power of the hurricane was a humbling and frightening experience. Emerging from shelter the next morning I saw the […]
Government Launches First Road Safety Strategy in Over a Decade The Government has published its first Road Safety Strategy in more than ten years, setting out an ambitious and long-awaited plan to significantly reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads. The strategy commits to a 65% reduction in road deaths and serious injuries by 2035, […]
When it comes to looking after your perimeter fencing, it’s important to consider how you treat the surface. Choosing the right treatment will not only increase the lifespan of your fence but will make maintenance far easier and keep your perimeter looking aesthetically pleasing. There are two main surface treatments commonly used for metal perimeter fencing: […]