We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a HR Administrator to join our team.
Salary: £23k – £24k depending on experience.
38 hours per week although this could be negotiated
The position
This is an exciting role which provides administrative support to the Group HR Manager.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch.
This role provides a great opportunity to join our Company, either as a first step in a HR career or as an experienced administrator.
The Role
The successful candidate’s main responsibilities will include but are not limited to the following:
Providing HR administrative support to the HR Manager
Producing employee induction packs and contracts of employment
Supporting with recruitment and lifecycle administration such as applications, arranging interviews and referencing
Accurately updating and maintaining the HR database
Processing sensitive and confidential information ensuring compliance with Company processes and data protection regulations
Administration of learning programmes, activities and qualifications ensuring adherence to internal procedures e.g., booking courses, rolling out E-Learning, printing handouts and sending out invitations
Any other administrational duties as assigned by the HR Manager
What you need
Proven experience of working in a busy and demanding environment where data entry and reporting deadlines have to be met, whilst managing changing priorities
Excellent and effective people and communication skills – verbal and written
Ability to work to deadlines
Ability to problem solve and use own initiative
Excellent attention to detail
Ability to deal sensitively and appropriately with confidential information
Strong PC skills including working knowledge of MS office applications
Ability to follow internal HR processes and procedures effectively
Working for HF Group
The HF Group is a family run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service benefit
Perkbox Subscriptions
Employee assistance programme
Training and development
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary
or e-mail: personnel@hf-group.co.uk
(Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
In the summer of 2007, a young man by the name of Iain Lambie working as an apprentice at HF in our Glasgow branch won the 2nd Stage Apprentice of the Year Award at Cardonald College.
Fast forward to today and Iain is not just celebrating 15 years since he won the apprentice of the year award. He is also celebrating more than a decade of working as an Electrician at HF as one of our many highly recommended and valued Electricians.
Iain is just one of countless examples of Electricians, Plumbers, Gas Engineers and Fire & Security Contractors working at HF who took their first steps in the industry as apprentices and have since forged long lasting careers with us in our branches across Scotland, England and Northern Ireland.
The name HF Group occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen.
That family culture means much more to us than just dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of the business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and an invaluable assets to our ongoing success. And that is why we continually invest in training and development, allowing the entire team to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
We are incredibly proud of our apprentice programme which has seen so many of our young apprentices continue into full time positions within the company, either as Electricians, Mechanical Contractors are as one of our Fire & Security team. We are always looking for the next talented and enthusiastic new members to join our team and if you think that could be you, find out more about the apprentice opportunities in your area using the link below.
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in an apprentice role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and valuable practical experience in the industry.
We are currently looking to recruit Electrical Apprentices to join our Electrical division.
Hours of work:
37.5 hours per week alongside our experienced electricians, gaining valuable practical experience, as well as attending College to complete the required SVQ. During this four-year apprenticeship, you’ll train to become a qualified electrician.
What you need
SECTT Pre-Employment Assessment
NQ SECTT Pre-Apprentice College Course (Desirable)
General knowledge of or interest in Electricals, in particular when used within a building environment
Good written and oral communication skills
What we can offer
Full-time position
Overtime available
Immediate start available
Working for HF Group
The HF Group is a family-run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies, please
To apply for this role or to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary
or e-mail: personnel@hf-group.co.uk
(Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunity employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
We are delighted to announce that our HF Comms, HF Controls, HF Electrical and HF Mechanical divisions have all been re-certified to the International Quality Management Standard ISO 9001.
ISO 9001 demonstrates that our group companies:
• Operate a robust Quality Management System
• Control our Services, processes and products to achieve consistent quality
• Provide Services and products that satisfy our customers standards,
specifications, price and fitness for purpose.
• Are committed to continual improvement.
A Company Well Connected
The HF Group of companies offers clients an unsurpassed level of genuinely in-house capabilities, senior-level hands-on management from initial planning to final handover, and the opportunity to tap into a wide range of services and a team of consultants with a skills base and command of technologies which are second to none.
HF’s family culture means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of the business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. So we continually invest in training and development, allowing the entire team to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a Business Support Administrator to join our HF Aberdeen Electrical Division.
The position
To support our branch operations manager with the running and allocating of jobs, updating clients and general invoicing.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements based from our Aberdeen branch.
The Role
The successful candidate will be required to complete the following daily tasks:
Monitor incoming emails from internal users and external clients
First point of contact for our operations branch manager, emails and calls
Programming/Scheduling of jobs in line with customer’s requirements
Management of jobs – i.e., Update client portals with ETA’s, SLA’s and completion docs.
Monitor works to be followed up by advising internal departments, i.e., Procurement for parts, Call Manager for updates/quotes required & Key account Admin to invoice
Arrange Permits and access for engineers to access sites and clients’ buildings
Ensure Engineers Scheduler is maintained with jobs and holidays
Creation and tracking of monthly estimates (including providing detailed explanation behind the figures)
What you need
Microsoft Word & Excel Experience – Essential
Experience in dealing with Client demands and engineers – Desirable
Good Customer manners – Essential
Knowledgeable in the Construction/Electrical or general maintenance industry – Desirable
Working for HF Group
The HF Group is a family run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary
or e-mail: personnel@hf-group.co.uk
(Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a 18th Edition Approved Electrician/Electrician to join our HF Aberdeen Electrical Division.
Salary negotiable upon experience.
The position
Operate as a remote field electrician
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Aberdeen branch.
The Role
The successful candidate will be required to complete the following daily tasks:
Carry out Electrical repairs generally in Commercial properties, but this can occasionally be in domestic and or industrial premises.
Carry out Planned Maintenance Visit – EICR’s & PAT
Use Client Portals/App to log in and out of each job where this is applicable
Ability to survey a job and give detailed description on works required and a full/accurate material list
Engage with clients in a polite manner. Communication with sites on ETA’s
Complete per job using a hand-held PDA job updates on jobs, time sheet and RAMS where applicable
The HF Group is a family run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary
or e-mail: personnel@hf-group.co.uk
(Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
Job Title: Business Support Administrator Location: Glasgow Salary: Negotiable upon experience
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a Business Support Administrator to join our Fire and Security division.
You will have strong administration experience, excellent communication and numerical skills and be happy to work in a team alongside like-minded individuals working to strict deadlines.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch.
The Role
The successful candidate will be required to complete the following daily tasks:
Invoicing and administration for the fire and security division
Assist with the administration of the planned maintenance portfolio from checking schedules to compiling cost reports to sending out renewal communication
Following up on daily alarm activation reports from the monitoring station
Managing the administration of group key accounts.
Assist with uploading reports / worksheets to client portals
Filing data and perform other routine clerical tasks as required
Operate a variety of standard office machines; computer / telephone / photocopier / printer etc.
What you need
Smart and tidy appearance
Excellent communication skills
Comprehensive numerical skills
Good time-management skills
Ability to work as part of a team
Ability to work on own initiative
Willingness to learn
Friendly, patient and polite nature
Working for HF Group
The HF Group is a family run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary
or e-mail: personnel@hf-group.co.uk
(Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
It is that time of the year when many of the Colleges across the UK have their end of year prize giving ceremonies.
And we are delighted to announce that not one, but two of our Glasgow apprentices have won Apprentice of the Year awards with Glasgow Clyde College.
Congratulations to our 1st year apprentice Morgan and 2nd year apprentice Gary for both winning their respective years awards.
Both Apprentices were awarded with the ‘Glasgow Clyde College’ Apprentice of the Year Awards in recognition of their work throughout the modern apprenticeship. Morgan for 1st stage and Gary for 2nd stage.
Each apprentice received a medal and a Shield Plaque with their name engraved on this years spot. The medal, they get to keep while the shield is retained by the college for future apprentice award winners.
Both electrical apprentices also received individual gifts. Morgan, our 1st year apprentice winner received a ‘Megger’ case complete with Voltage Pen, Test lamps and proving unit.
Gary, our 2nd year apprentice winner received a Dewalt Combi Battery Drill as his award.
Congratulations to you both.
At HF, we are incredibly proud not only of Morgan and Gary’s awards but in our overall apprentice programme itself. The name HF occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. We are always looking for quality, talented and enthusiastic new members to our team and apprentices form a vital part of the services that we offer and the quality that we can provide to our customers.
If you are interested in apprentice programmes in Electrical or Mechanical services, use the link below to find out more about the current opportunities in areas near our branches in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Belfast and Aberdeen.
As hot water passes through a building, it naturally looses heat as the water cools. With a constant drive to increase energy efficiency and to lower heating costs, pipe lagging is a great way to reduce water heat loss as the hot water from the boiler passes through the pipes of the building.
It may not be the most glamourous of heating solutions but pipe lagging insulates the pipes running from the central heating system boiler to the hot taps and radiators across a building. This improvement in energy efficiency can, over the course of a single year add up, allowing you to save monthly energy costs. And the bigger the building, the bigger the savings!
It is recommended to have pipe lagging fitted on new central heating installations so that hot water pipes can retain energy efficiency in the buildings central heating system. Pipe lagging can also help to prevent pipes from freezing in sub zero temperatures.
Pipe lagging also means that your boiler does not need to run for as longer which also cuts down on energy usage and general wear and excess use. All helping to reduce costs and lower the buildings monthly energy usage while cutting down on greenhouse gases.
Other types of lagging
Lagging is not used exclusively for pipe insulation. Lagging is the insulating material used to wrap around boilers, ventilation systems, water tanks and even on the inside of roofing to prevent heat from escaping.
While we do not provide roofing services, we do provide ventilation and air conditioning HVAC services and duct lagging is something that we offer for acoustic noise reduction. Duct lagging is a flexible sound reduction wrap that can be used to reduce pipeline noise in HVAC duct work and other industrial purposes.
Noise from piping and ductwork can be a serious problem in both domestic and commercial buildings. As water and other liquids travel through a pipe, it can cause turbulent noises. Equally, air flow passing through a ventilation system can cause duct noise to radiate through a building. Fitting lagging can help to reduce this noise impact while increasing the thermal efficiency of the system.
It may not be sexy and it may not be made from space age materials but lagging is an incredibly effective way of cutting down on heat loss and reducing unwanted noise. From historic buildings looking at ways to increase their energy efficiency to new buildings that require ventilation systems, we can install lagging to bring real benefits to your building.
Mechanical Services
Our Mechanical Division provides a full range of plumbing, heating, ventilation, HVAC and refrigeration services nationwide. Delivering high quality solutions regardless of contract value or size, our business is based on our customers’ needs: that means professionalism, honesty and reliability, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
From initial enquiry through to project completion, we appoint a manager who oversees the entire project and ensures every client need is met, every step of the way. In a world where customer service increasingly means call centres and multiple management, we believe ours is a refreshingly different approach.
If you would like to know more about our Mechanical Services, examples of the work we have done in this sector or if you have any questions about bespoke services that you are looking for, please call our head office in Glasgow on 0800 783 9480 or email info@hf-group.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Our Linkedin page recently hit 2000 followers and while this may be a small number for some businesses that have beeen using social media for a long time, we are only at the beginning of our social media journey so are understandably quite happy with the progress we have been making.
And to celebrate hitting 2000 followers last week, we are running a COMPETITION!!!!
Yes that is right. We are giving away an ‘HF Office Pack’ of the following:
We have 5 sets of the prizes to give away to 5 winners who we will pick this Friday (17th June) after 13:00 and contact them directly next week to arrange delivery of their prize.
The name HF occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. Faced with today’s business challenges – recessions, pandemics, takeovers and mergers, this is testament to HF’s truly outstanding approach.
The Summer Holidays are fast approaching and Schools across Scotland and England have mere weeks to go until the bell rings one final time before the long summer break.
For the kids, it is a time of excitement as they embark on a summer of no maths lessons. For parents, it’s a balance of family holidays and finding things to do that will suitably entertain their children during the break. And for the schools….it is a chance to complete larger maintenance jobs and upgrade equipment on site that would have otherwise been too difficult or dangerous to complete during the day to day school year.
And that is where HF comes in.
Every year, we conduct a wide variety of different Electrical, Fire & Security, Mechanical and Plumbing, Heating & AC work for Schools that would simply not be possible during normal term time. By completing this work when the schools are shut, it allows us unobstructed access to the whole school premises meaning we can get the job done faster for our clients.
The types of work we can provide for Schools (and other educational facilities) includes:
Electrical Services
We provide building wide electrical testing which is one of the most popular forms of electrical work that we do for schools. All electrical wiring and installations deteriorate over time and to ensure their safe use in the school, regular inspection and testing should be completed to check that all the electrical equipment is in a satisfactory condition for use by the teachers and pupils in the building. These inspection and testing safety checks are commonly referred to as ‘periodic inspection and testing’. Each time a school completes its periodic inspection and testing, they will be issued with an Electrical Condition Report (EICR). We also provide Energy Reports, LED Lighting Upgrades and a variety of other electrical wiring work that is vital as more and more schools embrace technology in their classrooms and therefore need additional electrical capacity.
Fire & Security Services
We conduct Fire & Security system upgrades for schools including Emergency Lighting Testing and Fire & Security Alarm Upgrades. Whether it is the upgrading of an existing alarm system to a new grade for insurance purposes or linking alarm sensors across multiple buildings for added safety, our Fire & Security Services are backed up with NSI NACOSS Gold and NSI Fire Gold accreditation so that we can operate to the highest possible industry standard and guidelines across the UK.
As schools look to offer a safer environment for the children studying there, access control systems, car barriers and a wide selection of other security devices can be fitted to the premises.
Mechanical Services
Our Mechanical division can complete anything from ventilation cleaning all the way to the complete refit of a new commercial kitchen space including walk in fridge/freezer space. Our work in mechanical covers refrigeration and air conditioning, ventilation installation and plumbing and heating systems. All vital cogs in the educational wheel.
With jobs ranging from £50 to £250,000 and beyond, we operate throughout the UK educational sector covering everything from fitting new heating systems to schools to installing ventilation systems for University sports facilities.
Plumbing/Heating & AC Services
From fixing the leaking tap to installing intelligent urinals that can reduce water consumption, our Plumbing, Heating & AC services can provide planned repairs, maintenance and upgrades to your school facility that can help reduce energy and water usage. This can range from anything including thermal insulation pipe lagging for the central heating system to installing water saving solutions like self closing showers, sensor taps and direct flush technology. We can even conduct a Water Cost Audit Reduction Survey.
All it takes is one call and our multi-skilled engineers can handle any type of issue. With clients ranging from private home owners to single unit businesses all the way to large high street names, some of which occupy over 350 outlets nationwide. The name HF occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen.
At HF, we work with educational establishments across the UK to create, refurbish and remodel educational and learning facilities that provide a safer and more structured environment for children and young adults to learn in. The needs of the education sector can be quite specific yet with our experience in this area, we can work on projects of all shapes and sizes to develop facilities that deliver key benefits to the teachers and students who use them.
Our unique company makeup allows us to deliver an effective and tailored package to educational establishments looking for a ‘one-stop shop’ for all aspects of their project needs. With offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Aberdeen and Belfast, we offer our services nationwide.
Using corridor lighting control to save money on your energy bills
Saving money and reducing energy consumption is always a worthwhile exercise. Some changes can require serious upheaval while others are as simple as changing the lights!
Lighting an office corridor may not seem like a big energy saving deal but in larger buildings across the UK where the corridors are used infrequently and for short periods of time, the energy used to light these spaces all day, every day can easily add up in your businesses energy bills.
Corridor Lighting Control systems are the ideal solution for commercial premises that want to save money on their energy bills while still providing clearly lit, safe corridor space in their workplace.
How does corridor lighting controls work?
The technology is all in the lamp (light bulb) and fittings. There is no extra wiring and no holes have to be drilled to fit them. Corridor lighting lamps work standalone using microwave detectors that allow the fittings to operate based on presence/motion in the corridor. When there is no presence detected in the corridor, the light level will operate at 3-5% light emission. When motion is detected in the corridor, the lamp fitting will illuminate up to 100% in a controlled fading up effect before calmly dimming back down to 3-5% when the corridor has become motionless again after a set timed period. The lamps can be fitted with time delays to suit the building owners specific needs and can even be set to switch off completely at set times at night when the office is closed to further reduce energy consumption.
How much money can corridor lighting controls save a business?
While the exact savings depend entirely on how many corridors and floors you need covered along with the day to day foot traffic that uses the corridors, the energy efficient programming of corridor control lamps can save you up to 60% on existing corridor lighting energy use. Combined with the fact that these are LED lighting fixtures enhances the energy savings that can be made by having corridor lighting installed in your business.
At HF, we fit LED lighting upgrades and corridor lighting at the request of our clients and as part of the results of energy reports that we can produce for our clients.
What is an energy report?
Energy reports use monitoring devices fitted directly to your businesses electrical supply that track your energy usage over the course of a normal week. They take an entire weeks worth of data, recording live readings every one minute (though it can be set to as low as one second), 24 hours a day. Using this data, we can compile energy reports that track the usage peaks in your business throughout a typical operating day and week in the business.
An example of a hospitality business and their energy usage increase during evening services
Why is this beneficial?
Knowing when you are using the energy most allows your business to track and change your energy usage habits. We have helped customers save thousands on their energy bills because an energy report has highlighted some of the following:
Energy usage during closed hours
We have helped one client realise that they were wasting a significant amount of energy on electrical equipment because it was not being turned off properly at night. The allowed the company to put in place new operating procedures that ensured office equipment was shut down properly at the close of business – cutting down their energy bills.
Spikes in the usage
We have helped a client to spot that they had been frequently getting very close to the maximum rated load that their buildings electrical system could take. They were going to be installing even more new electrical equipment that would have pushed this beyond the limit and caused the entire system to shut down. Our energy report helped this night club business prevent a ‘black out’ which would have cost them customers and damaged their reputation.
Planning for the future
While more and more businesses are looking to switch from gas to electric heating systems, they must first check that their electrical set up can handle the increased load. Replacing a complete central heating system with electrical radiators is not as simple as plugging a new devices into the wall. It requires planning and potentially new electrical wiring installations. Energy Reports can help determine whether your electrical set up can handle the loads.
Energy Usage
One of the more obvious benefits of an energy report is that it shows the electrical energy used over a set period of time. This means you can directly compare it to your energy suppliers data, ensuring that they are charging you the correct amount. We can highlight the energy usage savings that LED lighting and corridor control systems can have on your business.
Green Energy Services
From energy surveys and design all the way to full installation and year round maintenance contracts, we offer a bright way forward for energy solutions in your business. Leading the charge towards a more sustainable and efficient future, HF Green Energy Services is a bold new direction from one of the oldest and most highly regarded services contractors in the UK.
Find out more
As with any new technology, there is much to discover for businesses in the UK over the potential applications, benefits and money saving benefits of green energy. With offices across the UK, we can offer our green energy services across Scotland, England and Northern Ireland and are happy to discuss the full range of exciting services that we can offer your business as you move towards a greener future.
Job Title: Business Support Administrator Location:Belfast Salary: Negotiable upon experience Hours: Monday – Thursday 08:30 – 16:45, Friday 08:30 – 16:00
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF family in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a business support administrator to join our Mechanical & Electrical Division.
The position
You will have strong administration experience, excellent communication and numerical skills and be happy to work in a team alongside like-minded individuals working to strict deadlines.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Belfast branch.
The Role
The successful candidate will be required to complete the following daily tasks:
Opening and issuing Company mail in line with procedures
Make telephone calls / send emails
Carry out admin duties for the Branch Manager and Service Coordinator
Order and maintain office supplies
Answer incoming calls
Prepare documents and photos for completed works in readiness for return to the client
Assist with uploading reports/worksheets to client portals
Filing data and performing other routine clerical tasks as required
Operate a variety of standard office machines; computer/telephone/photocopier/printer etc.
What you need
Smart and tidy appearance
Excellent communication skills
Comprehensive numerical skills
Good time-management skills
Ability to work as part of a team
Ability to work on own initiative
Willingness to learn
Friendly, patient and polite nature
Working for HF Group
The HF Group is a family-run collection of companies and services with branches across the UK. Our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. We continually invest in training, refresher courses and development for our team that allows everyone in the HF family to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
Working across a variety of business sectors in exciting, ground-breaking projects, we make sure that new members who join the HF family join us with a clearly defined development path that is supported by regular reviews, training and ongoing support from our senior level management team.
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies, please
To apply for this role or to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary or e-mail: Melanie.Higgs@hf-group.co.uk (Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal-opportunity employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
Congratulations to Sean – Security Apprentice of the Year 2022
We are delighted to announce that our Fire & Security apprentice Sean Ward has won the Security Apprentice of the Year 2022 at Edinburgh College.
The Prize Giving Ceremony will take place on the 9th June at Granton Campus, Edinburgh and will recognise Sean’s achievements and successes during the academic year.
Sean is currently serving his apprenticeship with HF Fire & Security division based out of our Edinburgh Branch. As a leading Fire & Security contractor that is NSI Gold and NSI Fire Gold accredited, it is important to us that those who represent this company and are responsible for the installation and maintenance of our services are of the highest quality. The name HF occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen.
We are incredibly proud not only of Sean’s achievement but in our overall apprentice programme itself.
Earlier in the month one of our Electrician Apprentices had been nominated for the SECTT Apprentice of the Year Award.
We are always looking for quality, talented and enthusiastic new members to join our team and apprentices form a vital part of the services that we offer and the quality that we can provide to our customers.
To find out more about the apprentice opportunities in your area, click the link below.
Jamie is one of the many Electrical apprentices currently based out of our Edinburgh Branch. From our office on Harrison Lane, we provide a full range of electrical, fire and security and mechanical contracting services for the whole of East Lothian. Our office in Edinburgh allows us to offer a manned 24 hour call out service for electrical and fire and security services and our Mechanical Division operates directly from this location.
At HF, we are incredibly proud not only of Jamie’s nomination for the Apprentice of the Year Award but in our overall apprentice programme itself. The name HF occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. We are always looking for quality, talented and enthusiastic new members to our team and apprentices form a vital part of the services that we offer and the quality that we can provide to our customers.
If you are interested in apprentice programmes in Electrical or Mechanical services, use the link below to find out more about the current opportunities in areas near our branches in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Belfast and Aberdeen.
Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, better known as CHAS is this year celebrating 30 years of supporting children with life-shortening conditions, and their families across the whole of Scotland.
As Scotland’s only children’s hospice provider – they are there for any family who needs their support. Funds raised through the partnership will enable vital development and expansion of their outreach service, CHAS at Home, ensuring they can support children and families in every community across Scotland.
A successful first month for HF Fire & Security Ltd
At the beginning of April, we took our latest big step forwards as HF Fire & Security, a service within HF Electrical Ltd became its own, standalone company, HF Fire & Security Ltd.
As technology has developed in the fire and security industry, the demands placed on the sector have grown. This change was set in motion to allow us to best adapt to the technological developments across the industry covering everything from the latest developments in CCTV security cameras to how users can interact with the fire and security systems using the latest in technology.
This exciting new step for us officially began at the beginning of April and now, just over a month later, we wanted to say thank you to all our customers for the huge wave of enthusiastic support we have received with our exciting new direction.
As the name suggests, we are of course still part of the HF Group family but this restructuring has allowed us to move forwards in our own, independent direction, all while still following the tried and tested formulas that have seen many division of HF grow into a group of world-class companies.
“For us to be entrusted with taking this new company and develop it is incredibly exciting. We all know the incredible history behind HF so to be a part of that is both exciting and comes with it big expectations which we are committed to meeting. It has been a great first month and we have lots of exciting new developments coming in the months and years ahead. Watch this space.”
James Welsh, Director of HF Fire & Security Ltd (Edinburgh Branch)
“The balancing act of dealing with a global pandemic and the related supply chain problems, new interlinked smoke alarm legislation etc all while setting up this new company has not come without its challenges but overall, it has been a pretty seamless transition. As we have been telling all of our customers, we are doing this because, with the technological demands and growth in the fire and security sector, being able to move forwards in our own, independent direction was critical to be able to meet their high expectations going forwards. And of course, we still have our fellow HF members in Electrical and Mechanical close by because despite now being our own company, we are ‘A Company Well connected’!”
Chris O’Connor, Director of HF Fire & Security Ltd (Glasgow Branch)
Keep up to date with the latest HF Fire & Security Ltd news.
As a new company within HF, we have a new Linkedin company page that we will be posting on regularly with industry news, recruitment, case studies and more. To keep up to date with the latest HF Fire & Security news, simply follow our new page by clicking the link below.
‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day ‘ is an annual event (this year celebrated on Thursday 28th April) that first began in America as a National Day that allowed the children a chance to see where their parents worked. It is now celebrated by many businesses in the UK as well. But what if your Son or Daughter works alongside you?
That is exactly the case for a number of the HF team in our branches nationwide. HF is a family business that stretches back over three centuries and is as old as electricity itself. Because of our rich history, excellent staff retention and length of service rates, we have a number of Father & Son and Father & Daughter combos working alongside each other at HF.
Niven and his son Nathan about to start work for the day in the Edinburgh branch while Kieran is currently working on site.
And one of those Father & Son teams are our Edinburgh based Electrical Director Niven Baillie and his two sons Nathan and Kieran.
Niven. What is it like working alongside your sons?
In the office, they are both members of the team. I have to treat them the same as everyone else. One rule we have is that work stays at work.
Is it hard being a parent one minute and their Boss the next?
There are always going to be ups and downs but over the years that they have worked with me at HF, there is nothing we couldn’t get through.
Do you have a favourite story of working alongside your kids at HF?
There is a great sense of pride when I hear from clients that I have known for most of my working life who tell me they can tell they are my Sons simply because of the way they have found a way to solve issues on site the same way that I used to.
We have always considered our employees as part of the family and that family atmosphere we feel has helped many to stay with us for a very long time. Our Telecommunications division (for example) was originally founded by two of our Electrical team who are now celebrating more than 25 years at HF. In 2022 alone, we have already celebrated three individuals who have hit the 20 year anniversary mark at HF.
Our team are an invaluable asset to our business and we ensure that we offer everyone at the company many training and development opportunities, encouraging them to climb the ladder and make HF a permanent home for their working lives. We want the entire team to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment, keeping them in the loop of how the business is doing while reaching out and offering support to them when they need it.
The benefit to us? Excellent staff retention and length of service rates. And to our clients? The reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of your communications with us.
Technology and intelligent solutions to reduce water consumption in commercial bathrooms, shower rooms and washrooms
Water consumption has more than doubled in the last thirty years and in the commercial sector, this consumption is 50% higher. Reducing water consumption is a vitally important requirement for businesses across the UK and there are now many options that can help save water use in commercial settings. By tackling water consumption and use in your business, you could save up to 80% on your existing water bills.
Why does this matter?
In a domestic setting, every toilet flush uses 6 litres of water. If the average consumer in the UK uses the toilet 2,500 times per year, that equates to 15,000 litres of water per person, per year, simply on flushing the toilet. And that is just in a domestic setting. In commercial bathrooms and washrooms, this water consumption is far worse. A leaking toilet cistern for example can waste nearly 400 litres of water per day! Dripping taps are even worse and one of the least resolved causes of water wastage in both commercial and domestic locations.
So what can be done about it?
Reducing water consumption can be completed in two ways. Minimise waste and reducing consumption. Water use comes primarily from four sources – toilets, taps, showers and urinals. The water consumption reducing products available that businesses in the UK can embrace will help to reduce their water consumption and will in turn, reduce their environmental impact. All while offering the added benefit of lowering their water costs per year.
At HF, our Mechanical Division already provides Water Cost/Audit Reduction Surveys and Contract Services. Our water cost reduction audit will cover cost cutting suggestions and recommendations to improve your businesses water efficiency that are both environmentally beneficial AND will reduce future costs.
And this is helped by a wide range of new and smart technology and products that can help your business reduce their water consumption every single day.
Water Saving Solutions
Intelligent Urinals
Office toilets, pubs, bars and restaurant bathrooms see regular use throughout the day. The same can be said for Education facilities and Sports venues (to name just a few examples). In these settings there are both water consumption AND hygiene implications to deal with. Existing urinals deal with the hygiene issue in bathrooms by operating on a system of continual rinsing that removes urine and keeps a set water level in the systems trap to prevent bad smells from building up. This process of course uses a lot of water.
There are existing electronic systems that use PIR systems (similar to a home intruder alarm system) which detect when the urinal has been used and then activates the flush sequence. However, during peak times in a bar/pub for example, this can still be very wasteful as the system is continually flushing. The latest smart electronic detectors now come with intelligent rinsing which can detect when urinals are being used more frequently and flush in a controlled pattern (for example, one flush for every two users)- saving a lot of water. This intelligent flushing system can then monitor when the busy period has finished then completing an additional rinse before refilling the water trap. It can even be programmed to complete a duty flush at set times when their has been no activity to prevent the crystalisation of uric acid, water stagnation and system backflow.
Direct Flush Technology
Direct flush technology reduces water waste while improving hygiene in standard commercial toilets. Rather than relying on the cistern (which itself can be prone to leaks and parts failure), direct flush technology uses the systems dynamic pressure to supply a flush/rinse. There is no cistern to refill and therefore less opportunity for water wastage in the form of leaks. This also has the additional benefit of providing instant flush capabilities. No longer do users have to wait for the cistern to fill before flushing during periods of heavy use. These direct flush systems can be set to use a controlled volume of water per flush (generally between 3-6 litres).
Self Closing Showers
Showers use less water than baths do but in a commercial environment, can still be over used (and occasionally not turned off). This is because they operate on a control valve mechanism which the user operates and is therefore dependant on when they choose to turn the shower off. Self closing showers have a shut off valve which stops the water flow at a pre-determined time. This means that the user can use a self closing shower in stages for wetting, soaping and rinsing. This can save more than 75% on water consumption in comparison to showers which use a mechanical valve system are are an ideal solution for sports facilities, gyms and workplaces that have changing room/shower room facilities.
Sensor Taps
Sensor Taps have huge advantages over manually operated taps. They only function when a users hands activate the sensor and come with time control systems to control the amount of water used. And because they are contactless, they have the added hygiene benefits as the user does not need to touch any surfaces. This makes them an invaluable water reduction option in commercial offices, restaurants, pubs, schools, sports facilities etc. There are many types of sensor tap from deck mounted to wall mounted and they commonly come with thermostatic mixer valves that blend the hot and cold water to an ideal temperature which can also save your business on heating costs. Sensor taps have been proven to reduce the spread of bacteria in commercial washrooms and bathrooms.
Find out more
Water cost reduction surveys and contracts is a key part of HF Groups Mechanical Services. The supply of water in the UK has always been a tightly regulated marketplace which means that there is the misconception that there is very little savings to be made. We are strengthening our Water cost reduction surveys and contracts services to ensure that we exceed the demands placed on us from customers looking to make savings from their existing suppliers.
We are proven water audit specialists with an outstanding track record for saving our customers money on their water costs.
Our water cost reduction audit will cover cost cutting suggestions and recommendations to improve your businesses water efficiency that are both environmentally beneficial AND will reduce future costs.
From initial enquiry through to project completion, we appoint a manager who oversees the entire project and ensures every client need is met, every step of the way. In a world where customer service increasingly means call centres and multiple management, we believe ours is a refreshingly different approach.
As Peter Burnett, Manager at HF Mechanical Services, explains:
“Here at HF, personal attention from the top-down is ingrained in our culture. Regardless of contract value or size, our business is based on our customers’ needs: that means professionalism, honesty and reliability, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
If you would like to know more about our Mechanical Services, examples of the work we have done in this sector or if you have any questions about bespoke services that you are looking for, please call our head office in Glasgow on 0800 783 9480 or email info@hf-group.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Accredited Installer for Mitsubishi Air Conditioning Systems
We are delighted to have receive our renewed 2022-23 certificate from Mitsubishi Electric as one of their authorised and accredited installers for air conditioning systems in the UK. As part of their partner programme, we receive a renewed certificate every year as one of their valued partners.
Our Air Conditioning Services
Ranging from small wall mounted split systems to large scale VRV systems. Cold room’s freezer rooms to beer cellars, we understand that our customer’s requirements vary widely and as such, we tailor the installation, service and maintenance to meet our client’s needs.
Our services cover:
Air Conditioning servicing maintenance and Installation
Air Conditioning specification and design
Comprehensive range of tailored planned preventative maintenance and service contracts
Planned Preventative Maintenance to match industry standards
Bespoke maintenance regimes designed to meet our clients unique requirements
Provide our clients with full compliance with all F-Gas and leak detection regulations
Full HVAC maintenance including Gas Appliance Maintenance via our supply chain partners
Preferential rates and discounts given to maintenance contract customers
Our Service Vehicles are extensively stocked enabling a high proportion of first time fix.
Mechanical Services
Our Mechanical division provides a full range of plumbing, heating, ventilation, HVAC and refrigeration services nationwide. Delivering high quality solutions regardless of contract value or size, our business is based on our customers’ needs: that means professionalism, honesty and reliability, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
What does this mean for your homes intruder alarm?
In 2025, BT will be switching off their old analogue system called ‘Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and will be switching to a digital system routing calls over IP (Internet Protocol). This switch-off will have substantial implications for more than just telephone calls and has already begun in phases across the UK.
This change will affect every single business and home across the country and is an important change because it will be affecting anything that uses the old phone network including:
As the technology that we use in our day to days lives has changed, it has pushed the existing PSTN system beyond its capabilities. The switch to mobile and internet communications will allow the UK communication network to better handle both today’s technology demands as well as those of the future.
While 2025 may seem far away, this change is already happening in phases. 2025 is when the final switch-off is due to take place. Over the weeks and months leading up to this final switch off, areas across the country will be making the transition (and some already have). This is why you need to start planning for the change now rather than in three years time.
How does this affect Fire & Security Systems?
Everything connecting through your phone lines will need to be reviewed. If you currently use an older home intruder alarm system, the phone line communication may not work any more. Older alarm signalling systems use a digital communicator which is connected to an analogue phone line. This will NOT work after the PSTN switch off. Any fire alarm or intruder alarm system that operates using an analogue network will need to be replaced or updated before the 2025 cut off point.
What should I do?
Modern alarm systems have been embracing an all digital technology set up for a while now, so if you have recently had an intruder alarm fitted, chances are that it is already set up to use IP communication systems rather than PSTN. As a leading Fire & Security providers in the UK, we can check whether your current fire alarm system or security system works on an analogue or digital format. If it has been installed in the last 4-5 years then it is most likely going to be okay but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
If your system is running an older analogue set up, your first option is to completely update the entire system. Intruder alarm technology is always improving. If you use an older home alarm system, this may present an ideal opportunity to upgrade your system to a higher grade of security deterrent that can better cope with the latest security threats. Modern intruder alarm systems operate on cloud servers and as well as providing a deterrent to burglars, they can connect with smoke alarms, detect flooding and control smart devices such as Ring Door Bells., All while being easily managed via mobile apps.
However, if your current system is reliant on the current PSTN system, it may not need to be replaced. There are upgrade solutions that can upgrade the existing system to use digital rather than analogue.
At HF Fire & Security, we strive to offer you the very best in home alarm system services and offer a fully customisable home alarm system design, installation and maintenance package so that your home, your possessions and your loved ones are secure.
If you would like to find out more about our home alarm systems and how to upgrade your current PSTN dependant system to Digital IP, please contact us today.
Having been a part of the HF Group and HF Electrical Ltd since we first began our journey in the 1980’s, we are delighted to announce that, from the 1st of April, we have officially become our own stand alone company, HF Fire & Security Ltd.
As the name suggests, we will still be a part of the HF Group family but this restructuring will allow us to move forwards in our own, independent direction, all while still following the tried and tested formulas that have seen the other divisions of HF grow into a group of world-class companies.
Why now?
As technology has developed in the fire and security industry, the demands placed on the sector have grown. This change will allow us to best adapt to the technological developments across the industry covering everything from the latest developments in CCTV security cameras to how users can interact with
the fire and security systems using the latest in technology.
All while continuing to offer you the very best in service and quality, literally 24 hours a day.
Find out more…
If you would like to know more about this exciting new direction that we are taking and what it means for your business, please contact us.
On the 23rd of March 2020, the UK went into lockdown.
With high street businesses, offices, schools, sports venues and a whole host of other business shut overnight it meant that working from home was no longer the domain of the self employed but an essential part of day to day business life for all bar the essential workers who could not work from home.
As the lockdown days became weeks and the weeks became months, those that were working from home started to make the most of the situation. For those lucky enough to have the space, this involved adding a Garden Office. Whether converting a garden shed or building a new structure, hundreds of Garden Office Spaces popped up almost as fast as the Coronavirus sadly first appeared.
Garden Offices are the perfect solution for those wanting to create a dedicated working space at home that is not their kitchen table and offers complete privacy and minimal distraction from day to day home working life. While nationwide restrictions have now eased and people are able to return to the office, many businesses in the UK are now offering flexible working that allows employees to work both from home and at work.
With the popularity of working from home continuing, the garden office only looks set to become a more common site as working from home becomes a lifestyle choice. But with more and more garden offices, it presents security issues and potentially prime hot spots for intruders. After all, a garden office may be filled with office equipment, confidential paperwork and other valuables that are ripe for theft. And that is why, on the two year anniversary since Covid-19 lockdown restrictions first came to pass, we wanted to offer a selection of Garden Office Security Tips to help you protect your home working space going forwards.
1 – Structurally Strong Office
If you can access the garden office simply by unscrewing a few bolts or lifting a door off its hinges – this is not a structurally secure office. Sheds are usually made from flimsy materials as they only need to house garden equipment. Garden offices need to be as secure as your home and present intruders with as difficult a task as they would have breaking into your actual house. Do the windows have multi point locking systems? Does the door open inwards to prevent intruders from attacking the hinges? And can the walls of the office withstand anything less than specialist building tools, time and effort from an intruder to penetrate?
2 – Out of site and locked away safe
There are two things that intruders look for when steaking out a property. Access and easy of stealing valuables. If you leave a laptop, expensive office furniture and other valuables in plain site in your garden office, you are inviting a closer look from the robber. If you can, always remove valuables from a garden office over night or at least invest in a security safe where you can lock up valuable items, documents etc. A safe can also be a great way to protect items in the event of a fire or flood (depending on the quality of safe).
3 – Access Control
Locks come in all shapes and sizes. Insurance companies will commonly require an anti-snap 5 lever mortice lock that has a BSI Kitemark as this is generally regarded as one of the best locks for door security. You can take it further however with keyless access control systems. Access Control Systems can come in the form of access cards, keypads with 4, 6, 8 or more entry pin codes and even biometric scanners. It may all sound quite high tech but being able to control access to your office is crucial. Whether that be through a recommended, secure key lock system or more elaborate security is entirely up to you. But ask yourself this – what are the possessions of my garden office really worth?
4 – Intruder Alarms
Security Systems are a great way of protecting your home office from intruders. An intruder alarm can act as a vital, visual deterrent as the bell box mounted to the exterior of the garden office acts as a warning sign to intruders that the structure is protected. Intruder alarms can use various types of sensor all connected to a central control panel system. Motion detection scanners, magnetic seal and glass breaking sensors are the easiest to install and can help to protect your garden office from being broken into without the risk of a loud intruder alarm blaring out and waking you and your neighbours whilst simultaneously alerting our Manned 24 Hour Monitoring Team.
5 – CCTV Systems
Intruder alarms are a great way of deterring thieves and CCTV Cameras are like the icing on the cake. Thanks to biometric scanning, thermal imaging, motion detecting LED lighting and so much more, CCTV cameras can easily capture intruders and make it a lot harder for them to escape justice than ever before.
CCTV systems can be connected to your intruder alarm and can even notify you via phone, text or email with real time updates regardless of where you are in the world!
6 – Location, Location, Location
If your garden is in plain view from the street, then it is a logical assumption that your garden office is in plain view. If you leave valuables in your garden office over night, it can allow thieves to see what they might want to steal without even having to access your garden space. How can you obstruct their view of your garden office? Likewise, how secure is your garden? Do you have motion detecting lighting? Is the side gate locked? Think of how you would access your garden spaces if you were the intruder. The harder you make it and the more clearly secure you make the office, the less appealing and harder it will be for an intruder to gain access. Garden fences should be strong, sturdy and high enough that an intruder would find it difficult to climb over. Roses produce lovely looking flowers but their thorns also act as a great security deterrent for anyone thinking of leaping over a fence covered in them.
7 – Speak to the experts
At HF Fire & Security, we are backed up with NSI Gold and NSI Fire Gold accreditation so that we can operate to the highest possible industry standard and guidelines across the UK.
Our team can advise you on all types of security system that you should have, giving you the very best in security to suit your needs. We can review your domestic or commercial property and provide recommendations on what products, system design and installation requirements you should have.
With senior-level hands-on management from initial planning to final handover in everything from facilities management services to advanced communication systems; we our incredibly proud of the services that we can offer our customers. It all adds up to a service fully focused on protection and delivering your requirements on time and on budget – because anything else, quite simply, won’t do.
Find out more
If you would like to know more about our range of security system that can protect garden offices, examples of the work we have done in this sector or if you have any questions about bespoke security services, please call us today on 0800 783 9480 or email info@hf-group.co.uk.
Year round maintenance and servicing
With branches across the UK, we can provide year round call out cover for security system maintenance, servicing and repairs.
Safety and security are, as with everything we do at HF, paramount. And with security and fire safety services tailored to your size, complexity and bespoke requirements; we are proud to offer a 24/7 call out service as part of an extensive aftercare package that ensures you stay secure all day, every day.
Did you know that around 500,000 tonnes of grease and fat enter the sewage system in the UK every single year?
The fats and oils in grease can damage water treatment facility equipment and can cause damage to the natural environment if allowed to enter the natural water supply. Grease can also damage commercial kitchen equipment, block drain pipes and lead to expensive repairs if not managed correctly.
A grease indictor to show when duct needs cleaned.
Because of this, there is strict UK legislation over Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG) management in the food industry. It requires businesses to implement correct management of FOG. And that is why grease traps are so important.
Grease Traps (also known as Grease Interceptors, Catchers or FOG Traps), can be found in all forms of commercial kitchen including:
The Fats, Oils and Greases captured by Grease Traps are around 10 – 15% less dense than water. And because the Grease, Oils and Fats don’t mix with water, a grease trap simply allows waste water into the system where it then cools and forms into the different layers.
Grease rises to the top, solids settle in the bottom. And the clear water fits in the middle where it can then be released through an outlet baffle. Simple.
Grease Traps have strainers that can collect solid debris and help ensure the system does not get blocked though Grease Traps must be cleaned and pumped out on a regular basis.
There are a variety of different types of Grease Trap available from Passive, Manual Systems that are commonly found in smaller kitchen facilities to Automatic Systems which operate in the same way but are more scalable and efficient, with lower running and servicing costs. And then there are Gravity Grease Traps which work using a passive hydromechanical system on a much larger capacity.
HF Mechanical Services
HF Mechanical is the division of HF providing plumbing, heating, ventilation, HVAC and refrigeration services. Delivering high quality solutions regardless of contract value or size, our business is based on our customers’ needs: that means professionalism, honesty and reliability, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We can design and fit ventilation and extraction systems, walk in fridges and cold storage rooms. Install gas cooking appliances, grease traps, water points and all relevant fire safety equipment among so much more.
From initial enquiry through to project completion, we appoint a manager who oversees the entire project and ensures every client need is met, every step of the way. In a world where customer service increasingly means call centres and multiple management, we believe ours is a refreshingly different approach.
If you would like to know more about our Mechanical Services, examples of the work we have done in this sector or if you have any questions about bespoke services, please call today on 0800 783 9480 or email info@hf-group.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Tuesday the 8th of March is International Women’s Day and at HF we want to celebrate the event as a company who are are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that encourages all employees to reach their full potential.
As the International Women’s Day website says…Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.
Today is all about celebrating women’s achievement, raising awareness against bias and taking action for equality.
HF is a family owned and managed company that has been providing electrical, mechanical, plumbing, heating, fire & security services throughout the UK. Our family culture is the core of our business. We consider all our employees as part of our family and an invaluable asset to our ongoing success.
We believe in the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment for all employees and do not discriminate based on sex, race, pregnancy and maternity, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, disability, religion or beliefs, age or sexual orientations. Our Equal Opportunities Policy aims to remove unfair and discriminatory practices and encourages full contributions from its diverse community.
We are fully committed to promoting gender diversity in the workforce to maximise innovation, creativity and competitiveness. It will take a number of years before we have an equal gender balance due to the current number of qualified female electricians but as part of our own endeavour to #breakthebias, we will continue to:
• Include women in shortlists for recruitment and promotion when applicants.
• Promote our Equal Opportunities Policy.
• Continue to remunerate employees doing comparable roles with comparable skills equally.
• Acknowledge the importance of diversity within our workforce.
• Not discriminate based on their sex, race, pregnancy and maternity, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, disability, religion or beliefs, age or sexual orientations.
International Women’s Day is powered by the collective efforts of all. We sat down with four of the women in HF to ask them a series of questions related to the day in question. To read more, click the link below.
For International Women’s Day 2022, we sat down with some of the women who work at HF to ask them a series of questions related to the day in question.
International Woman’s Day is a very important day as being a woman in a male dominated industry means I have to prove myself a lot more than most. I am proud to be a woman within a male industry and I hope that many more woman take an interest in trades and within the construction industry.
What barriers have you faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
Stereotypes are something which I come across a lot in this industry. Being a young female I am often expected by a lot of people to pursue an “office” job. However times are changing and it’s become more common for a tradeswoman to be carrying out jobs. I would say ignore any stereotypes and continue to do your job and make an excellent example for the girls!
Why did you choose a career in Electrical?
I chose a career in the electrical industry because I have always took an interest in my Dads work, he too is an electrician. I know it’s a job for life with so many opportunities and the industry will always continue to adapt and grow.
Why is it important for more women to take up a career as Electricians in the future?
Yes! It is very important and a shared ratio of male to woman should begin to even out. For a lot of woman pursuing a career in the electrical industry or any trade can be daunting but it’s something that shouldn’t be. There are a lot of opportunities for woman in construction and lots of room to work your way up and further your career.
Can you tell us about a role model who has inspired you in your career?
I have always looked up to Queen Elizabeth. The things she has done through her life has been incredibly impressive. And of course my Dad.
What advice would you give to a woman thinking of starting a career as an electrician?
Don’t let anyone put you off, for a lot of people choosing this career path is very unusual and out of the norm but it’s nothing to shy from. Show you have good work ethic, good attitude and a strong interest in the industry.
International Women’s Day to me is a celebration of women and everything women have achieved in the face of adversity. It is also a reminder of how far we have come and how far we still have to go.
Why did you choose a career in Telecommunications?
What got me onto this career path was the fast paced nature of the industry. I love the constant advances of technology. It presents new opportunities and challenges in equal measure.
Why is it important for more women to take up career in Telecommunication in the future?
As telecoms becomes more and more essential to our way of life, the industry is continually growing and changing, so there is no shortage of available opportunities for a flourishing career
Can you tell us about a role model who has inspired you in your career?
I don’t have a specific role model per say but have a lot of respect for any woman who has been able to break the glass ceiling in their industry.
What advice would you give to a woman thinking of starting a career in Telecommunications?
If you want a fast paced and challenging role within a constantly developing industry, then this is the right job for you.
It is a celebration of the achievements, aspirations and equality of women regardless of culture, background, religion and sexuality.
What barriers have you faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
Redundancy, bullying, being overlooked for promotion, chauvinist attitudes and behaviours. The disappointment, upset and frustration was turned in to energy and determination to take every given opportunity to succeed.
Why did you choose this career path?
This particular opportunity found me. Transferring a skill set to work within a different business.
Why is it important for more women to take up a career in Mechanical, Electrical & Fire & Security in the future?
These trade disciplines have always been available to women but maybe not as accessible as they are now. Attitudes have changed where it is as acceptable to have female engineers showing a strong skill and knowledge set.
What advice would you give to a woman thinking of starting a career as a Plumber, Electrician or Fire & Security Contractor?
Whether working as an individual or as part of a bigger team, there are plenty of people to guide and support you and opportunities in the discipline you choose. HF have a great apprentice programme and are always looking for Women who want to start out in the industry.
To me – a lot. Working for a company with such a long history, today allows me to look back and celebrate how far women have come in business but also what we still need to improve.
Electrical, Mechanical and Fire & Security have always been industries with a gender imbalance and lot of stereotypical views associated to it but I am proud we are improving on this every year as we take on more female apprentices in what are historically male led sectors.
What barriers have you faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
I am lucky that I live in the UK and am under 40. As a women working in Finance, I started my career at a time when equality was improving quickly; not perfect but vastly improved upon. I have of course come across individuals from time to time with outdated views but as a professional, I always let my work do the talking.
Why did you choose a career in Finance?
I have always been good with numbers so that helped narrow down my options. Finance is a dynamic industry and when I was first considering my career path, it was one that appealed to me as it gave lots of options for working abroad, growth within the finance sector and the potential to work in a diverse range of sectors.
Can you tell us about a role model who has inspired you in your career?
There are so many inspirational woman. I am a keen tennis player so Billie Jean King who championed women’s equality in sport, Amelia Earhart, I could go on but as cliché as it is, my real model was my mum. Throughout my childhood she worked hard and had her own career which subconsciously taught me a lot.
What advice would you give to a woman thinking of starting a career in finance?
Whatever stage of your career or industry you are in, you need passion and commitment to the job. Work hard, perform to the best of your ability and believe in yourself. Self-confidence isn’t always easy but be confident knowing you have performed to the best of your ability.
Christmas may have come and gone but we are still in the depths of winter. And it is actually this time of year where we frequently experience even more snow and ice. At HF, our team of Electrical Contractors, Mechanical Engineers, Fire & Security Fitters and Telecommunication Specialists are always on the move. Our Fire & Security team for example visit some of the most remote and far away ports and harbours in Scotland conducting Fire Alarm testing. And this means that they have to drive on remote roads in dangerous, winter conditions.
We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. Which is why we ensure that they receive regular health and safety training and reminders such as on driving in snow and ice. And we thought it would be a good idea to share that advice with you.
Driving in snow & ice
Most of us in the UK have very little experience of driving in extreme conditions, such as ice and snow. For safety in these conditions, please adjust your driving style to the weather conditions that you are driving in. Assess and plan your journey thoroughly. Inform someone you know of your route, departure and expected arrival times and regularly consult the weather forecasts as you travel. Always be prepared to alter your route, and only continue on your journey if it is safe to do so.
Prepare Your Vehicle for winter weather
Check: Brakes, lights, battery, windscreen, windscreen wash, wiper blades, windows, anti-freeze, oil, tyre condition, tread depth and pressure.
Emergency Kit
Imagine if you were stranded in your vehicle overnight due to a snow storm or floods. How would you stay warm? What would you eat and drink? How would you contact friends or the Emergency services if you were in trouble?
Think: Warm clothing, blankets, ring pull cans of food, water. Charger for your phone and make sure you have sufficient fuel.
Adapt your driving to the conditions
Visibility will probably be reduced, so use dipped headlights.
Reduce your speed. you may need up to TEN TIMES the normal distance for braking.
Avoid harsh braking and acceleration, or sharp steering.
Always reduce your speed smoothly and in plenty of time on slippery surfaces.
Slowdown in plenty of time before bends and corners.
Braking on an icy or snow-covered bend is extremely dangerous. The centrifugal force will continue to pull you outwards and the wheels will not grip very well,
causing your vehicle to spin.
To brake on ice and snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use your brakes gently.
Increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front.
Keep your vehicle well-ventilated. The car heater can quickly make you drowsy.
In snow, stop frequently to clean the windows, wheel arches, lights and number plates.
Frost and ice or snow covering may not occur uniformly on roads. Often there are isolated patches of frost or ice after most of the road has thawed – this commonly occurs under bridges.
If you get stuck in snow
If you do get stuck in snow, revving your engine to try to power out of the rut will just make the rut worse. Instead, move your vehicle slowly backwards and forwards out of the rut using the highest gear you can. If this doesn’t work, you may have to ask for assistance either from a passenger or fellow traveller to push you out or get your shovel out.
If you get caught in a snow drift
Don’t leave your vehicle. Call your breakdown service or the emergency services and let help come to you. Don’t run the engine to keep warm, the snow may prevent
exhaust gasses from escaping.
JOB SNAPSHOT: Director of Access – MOBILE TELECOMS Job Title: Director of Access – Mobile Telecoms Location: Glasgow
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF Group in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a candidate to join the board as Director of Access within HF Comms Ltd with responsibility for the construction function of our business.
The position
You will be responsible for the entire front-end function of the business managing an enthusiastic and dedicated team to deliver program access delivery requirements to our clients to strict SLA’s and KPI’s.
You will have an excellent working knowledge of the full front-end process (access and design) within the mobile telecoms industry. Knowledge of Cellnex portfolio’s will be advantageous.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch.
What you will need include
Minimum of 5 year’ experience managing in a similar role in a mobile telecoms environment.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience of mobile operators’ specification
Surveying qualification/ member of RICS
Design qualification preferred
Competence and knowledge of the EEC
Planning competence MRTPI
Proven track record in the delivery of access in a rollout environment
Knowledge of legislative requirements in relation to site acquisition
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary or e-mail: Melanie.Higgs@hf-group.co.uk (Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
JOB SNAPSHOT: Construction Director – MOBILE TELECOMS Job Title: Construction Director – Mobile Telecoms Location: Glasgow Salary: £65k + (DOE & Competitive benefits package)
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF Group in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a candidate to join the board as Construction Director within HF Comms Ltd with responsibility for the construction function of our business.
The position
As the construction director you will be responsible for overseeing our construction program teams that are responsible for the delivery of construction on a number of varying and different programmes of work. Each team has their own senior build manager and you will be required to provide leadership and guidance to that person and ensure they have the right level of resource and skill sets within their team to ensure success in their delivery.
The job role of a Construction Director involves the following duties:
Managing project managers and enabling them to supervise and manage their own teams
Making strategic decisions and providing leadership and direction to Snr Build Managers to implement those decisions
Meet with clients, stakeholders and assist the Snr Build Managers to regularly report on programme progress and performance.
Liaising with clients and building strong working relationships
Devising cost-effective plans to ensure efficient and effective build completion
Managing risks to avoid delays or reputational damage
What you will need include
Minimum of 5 year’ experience directing a build rollout delivery department in a mobile telecoms’ environment.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience of mobile operators’ technical specifications
Health and safety qualification (NEBOSH preferred or equivalent)
Project management qualification
Programme management experience
Construction/engineering-based qualification
Excellent commercial and contract knowledge and experience
Leadership and business management skills
The ability to plan and adapt
Excellent verbal communication skills
Additional skills which will benefit include:
Persistence and determination
Be thorough and pay attention to detail
Having knowledge or experience of working on the Cellnex and MNO portfolios
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary or e-mail: Melanie.Higgs@hf-group.co.uk (Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
Last year, we celebrated 25 years since we first began our journey into the telecommunications market as HF Comms.
And while we are naturally proud of this achievement, HF’s family culture has always meant much more than dates and numbers.
We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. Which is why, today, we are thrilled to be celebrating 25 years since not one, but TWO of our team joined HF Comms Ltd.
John Balmer and Andy McKay both arrived at HF Comms in its infancy and have helped to grow the company, working on ground-breaking communications contracts throughout the world. They have been with us through so many highs and so many of todays modern business challenges, many of which have seen other business fall by the wayside. From fuel shortages and 2001’s foot and mouth outbreak to recessions and pandemics. It is a testament to their collective impact at the company.
“We can all take inspiration from your passion, hard work, and the loyalty that you have displayed throughout these years of service and sometimes in the face of adversity. Through it all you have never wavered so thank you both and congratulations on your work 25 year anniversary!” Greg Madine
HF Comms Ltd Managing Director
“Congratulations on yet another year at HF Comms. You have consistently set an example to those around you of hard work and never-ending team spirit. Happy25th Work Anniversary!” Hugh R Fulton
HF Group Managing Director
Few industries are as fast moving as the communications sector and even fewer are as competitive. With senior-level hands-on management from the likes our John and Andy, we can give our customers the reassurance of the best possible service, throughout every aspect of their communications with us.
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF Group in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a Mobile Telecoms Design Manager to join HF Comms Ltd
The position
You will have an excellent working knowledge of design within the mobile telecoms industry and knowledge of Cellnex portfolio’s will be advantageous.
You will be responsible for managing an enthusiastic and dedicated team to deliver design requirements to our clients strict SLA’s and KPI’s.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch.
This is a long-term position with flexible working arrangements in our Glasgow branch.
What you need
Minimum of 5 year’ experience managing a design delivery department in a mobile telecoms’ environment.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience of mobile operators’ specification
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary or e-mail: Melanie.Higgs@hf-group.co.uk (Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
To be a multi-service contractor that provides a manned 24 call out service nationwide, you have to have the infrastructure and offices nationwide to support this. And at HF, we have just that.
In December 2021, our Aberdeen branch celebrated their 10 year anniversary and now, as we enter the beginning of February, our Manchester branch gets to take the limelight as they celebrate 20 years since they first open their doors and helped HF expand our reach into England.
What makes this anniversary even sweeter is that the man entrusted with opening and running the Manchester branch is still there. A testament to the family culture at HF.
“I still remember when we first opened up for business in the Manchester branch. We had acquired a small office in Moston Manchester which we were sharing with some of the HF Comms team, we only had one job on our books and too many engineers with not enough work to do. But this was all about the long game. We were here to stay.
It took a lot of phone calls, meetings and running around to build up some real momentum but in no time, we were moving out of our original Moston office and into what is still out current location in Bredbury. At the time, it was a huge space to take up as we were still a small branch compared to the other HF offices but we are now rapidly outgrowing the space as we continue to expand our presence in the Midlands.
Looking back over the last 20 years, there have been so many good days. A few trying times as well, but we have always had tremendous support from our Glasgow and Edinburgh branches back up north who helped us balance the workload when tough deadlines needed to be met.
We want to say a massive thank you to all of our clients through the years who first saw the values that a multi service contractor could offer and have stuck with us ever since. Our continued growth and success is down to their faith in us to get the job done.
We have had a great first twenty years. Looking forward to the future and what it brings.”
As the country pushes forwards towards net-zero, our Manchester office has likewise, moved into the Green Energy services sector with qualified and certified EV Charging installers that are able to fit vital new EV charging systems required for the wave of new Electric vehicles that are finding their way onto the nations roads.
Nothing stands still for long at HF and after two decades of reactive and planned installations, maintenance, repairs and servicing, we continue to lead the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. Faced with today’s business challenges – recessions, pandemics, takeovers and mergers, this is testament to HF’s truly outstanding approach.
Here is to the last 20 years and to the next 20 years ahead.
HF Comms achieve re-certification to the ISO 45001:2018 Health and Safety standard
HF Comms Ltd are delighted to announce that, we have successfully achieved re-certification to the ISO 45001:2018 Health and Safety standard.
Leadership and Worker Participation were key to achieving the standard, and by working together HF Comms, the Telecommunications part of the HF Group family strive to provide “a safe place to work” for all our employees and those affected by our works.
The benefit to our Customers and Partners is that, HF Comms Ltd can demonstrate commitment to the continual Improvement of our Health and safety systems and performance.
ISO 45001: 2018 is designed to be integrated into an organisation’s existing management processes, and will dovetail with our ISO 9001:2015 Quality management accreditation.
Electrical cable needs to transport electricity from one point to another.
That is its primary function. But where it is going to be installed? What is its final application?
Electrical cable comes in a huge range of different configurations suitable for multiple end uses. Including for the application in Fire & Security Systems.
FP Cable is a specific electrical cable type designed with a fire protection rating. FP is short for Fire Performance and has the ability to resist fire while continuing to operate and transport electricity from one point to another.
This is of particular importance where electrical devices such as fire alarms and emergency lighting systems need to continue operating even during a fire.
FP200 is recognised as the leading type of electrical cable used in the Fire Industry. It meets the requirements of current British Standards and is ideal for use in fire detection systems, emergency lighting and smoke alarm systems which require constant circuit integrity in the event of a fire.
FP200 electrical cabling can be used in the following British Standards:
BS 5839-1 Fire systems for buildings
BS 7629-1 Fire resistant screened cables
BS 6387 Category CWZ
BS EN 50200 Class PH30 & PH60
BS 8434-1 30 minutes
BS EN 61034-2 Low smoke emission
BS EN 60754-2 Halogen free
FP200 is suitable for:
Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings
Voice alarm systems and emergency voice communication
Emergency lighting
Control circuits for life safety and fire fighting systems
Other essential service control circuits
Find out more
Our Fire & Security Services are backed up with NSI Gold and NSI Fire Gold accreditation so that HF Fire & Security can operate to the highest possible industry standard and guidelines across the UK. Combining this with the in house knowledge and service level capabilities means that trusting HF Fire & Security can take care of all your fire and security services throughout the year and throughout the country.
If you would like to know more about our Fire & Security Services, examples of the work we have done in this sector or if you have any questions about bespoke services that you are looking for, please call our head office on 0800 783 9480 or email info@hf-group.co.uk.
Today, the 13th of January is the day that we celebrate St Mungo’s Day.
While for many in the UK, this is not a big deal, but in Glasgow, St Mungo is a very important part of the history of the city. And as a Glasgow born company, we like to mark the day and reflect on the impact that St Mungo has had on our home twon.
Who is St Mungo?
St Mungo is the Patron Saint and founder of Glasgow. Born in Fife, Mungo began his missionary works on the banks of the River Clyde and built his church nearby on a site that we now know as Glasgow Cathedral.
In order to become a Saint, it is necessary to prove that you have performed a miracle during your life which St Mungo managed to accomplish four times, now immortalised in this poem…
Here is the bird that never flew
Here is the tree that never grew
Here is the bell that never rang
Here is the fish that never swam
These four references, the bird, the tree, the bell and the fish can be found in the Glasgow City Council Crest.
Job Title: Mobile Telecoms Senior Build Manager Location: Glasgow
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join the HF Group in a permanent role that promises unique challenges, a varied workload and great career progression opportunities within the company.
We are currently looking to recruit a Mobile Telecoms Senior Build Manager to join our HF Comms Company.
The Role
The successful candidate will be required to complete the following daily tasks:
Management of operator projects, on a day-to-day basis
First point of contact for customer Project Manager(s)
Validation of operator technical solutions
Validation of scope and design drawings
Validation of project costs liaising with estimating department
Programming/Scheduling of jobs in line with customer’s requirements (including defect clearance)
Management of jobs which includes the management of members of your team responsible for
Equipment call-off
Outages for your projects
Access permits for your projects
Management of finances for your projects
Creation of Addition to Orders (ATO’s), where necessary
Creation and tracking of monthly sales estimates (including providing detailed explanation behind the figures)
Production of Interim and Final Accounts
Validation and approval of field costs e.g., Materials delivery notes, Field team’s timesheets and expenses etc.
Assisting the front-end team and estimators with
Analysis of site survey reports
Analysis of site drawings
Analysis of tenders and agreeing programme of works
First POC with field teams regarding technical advice and escalations
Technical advice on all scopes of work particular to the project you are working on
Having knowledge or experience of working on the Cellnex and MNO portfolios
Benefits/Additional Perks
Private Medical Cover
Critical Illness Cover
Auto Enrolment Pension
Death in Service Insurance
Perkbox Subscriptions
No Agencies please
To apply for this role or for to be considered for further roles at HF Group, please contact:
HR Manager
HF Group
100 Albert Drive
Glasgow
G41 2SJ
enclosing your CV and current salary or e-mail: Melanie.Higgs@hf-group.co.uk (Online application forms available upon request)
HF is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company’s receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a job vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Due to volume only successful candidates will be contacted.
We have been shortlisted for the 2022 Family Business of the Year Awards.
What better way to start the year than to find out that we have been shortlisted and are now in the running for the 2022 Family Business of the Year Awards.
The Family Business of the Year Awards were created in 2012 to celebrate the UK family business sector, to recognise the diversity of family firms across the country and to celebrate the contribution that they make.
At HF, our family culture stretches back over three centuries in business yet it means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of our business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success.
Hugh M Fulton – Group MD says:
“Experience shows. Our strong ‘family’ system is based on cohesion, flexibility and communication. We have a proven track record of delivering results and a truly quality service.”
As one of the shortlisted family firms, we are very proud to be in contention for this prestigious award that is now in its tenth year and having become an integral part of the family business calendar.
Shortlisted in the Scottish region for the award are:
Amor Cabello Hair Salon
Angels’ Share Glass
Crafty Macs
Crieff Hydro
HF Group
Isle of Skye Sea Salt Company
Keela
Lindores Abbey Distillery
Linian
Mackies
Old Plean Roofing
Pushchair Expert
Redpath Bruce
The Power Within Training & Development Ltd
The Scottish Bee Company
The UPAC Group
Victor Pizza
Wholesale Domestic Bathrooms
Zayns Fast Foods
Find out more
To find out more about the Family Business of the Year Awards, please use the link below.
2022 has now begun and while the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 pandemic has meant that for many, home working has become ‘the norm’ again, the vast majority of the UK is now back at work in some capacity.
Of course, at HF Group, through our Manned 24 hour Call-out Service, we never truly stopped. Our team of electrical contractors, mechanical, plumbing and heating engineers and Fire & Security Consultants were on call throughout the festive period ensuring that the various sectors of business in the UK could continue to operate.
But what of 2022 and the opportunities that it brings. After the COP26 event in Glasgow last year, there is now an increased drive towards green energy solutions and in 2022, we will be seeing growth in this area of our Electrical Division as more and more domestic car owners switch to Electric Vehicles and require EV Charging Points fitted. While commercial businesses are seeing the marketing potential of having EV chargers fitted to their car parks as a way of increasing foot traffic through the front door.
In the Fire & Security side, Scotland will be seeing new legislation come into effect in February requiring all domestic properties to have interlinked smoke alarms fitted. If you want to know more about this, please click the link below.
The 5G roll out continues with our Telecommunications division HF Comms working to design and install 5G towers across the country while our Automated Controls Division is leading the way with some of the most advanced, bespoke control panel solutions for multiple sectors of industry.
The name HF Group occupies an unprecedented position in industry across the UK. We have diversified and developed abreast of industry advancements and have grown into a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. Faced with today’s business challenges – recessions, pandemics, takeovers and mergers, this is testament to HF’s truly outstanding approach. As we roll into 2022, our family culture means much more than dates and numbers. It’s quite literally, the core of the business. We consider all of our employees as part of the family and invaluable assets to our ongoing success. So we continually invest in training and development, allowing the entire team to share in a thriving and mutually supportive working environment.
We hope you have had a great festive break and a good start to the new year and look forward to what 2022 has in store.
Why switching to electric vehicles and having EV Charging Stations fitted at your business is the way forwards.
Electric vehicles have been gaining traction for a number of years now and there is a real sense that the days of petrol and diesel are numbered. More and more car manufacturers are confirming dates when they intend to stop selling fossil fuelled vehicles in the UK and become fully electric. And this all means that it is only a matter of time before your next car (for both personal and commercial use) is electric. But what does that mean for company cars and the benefits to businesses by having electric vehicles and EV charging stations at your business address?
There are many benefits to going electric with very few downsides. In fact, many of the supposed issues with going electric are either outdated (thanks to advances and developments in battery technology) or are just myths that have hung around for far too long.
Electric Vehicles are better for the environment
When you take into account the manufacturing process and the average life expectancy of an electric vehicle, it is estimated that an electric vehicle will emit anywhere from 30-80% less CO2 than a traditional petrol vehicle and even less compared to a diesel vehicle. All in all, running an electric vehicle from start to finish emits a lot less CO2 into the environment.
They cost less to run
An electric car has fewer components than a traditional petrol or diesel car. There is no exhaust system, combustion engine etc and that reduces a lot of moving parts from the inside of a car. This all means that the car can run more reliably (touch wood) and repair and servicing costs will be less. And then of course there is the day to day running costs. While energy prices have been going up, so too has petrol and diesel. Running an electric car is cheaper than having to fill up at the pumps once every couple of weeks.
No congestion charges
More and more cities in the UK are introducing congestion charge zones. London needs no introduction to this one of course but Glasgow, Birmingham and many more cities have been introducing the same system recently. And for those that haven’t yet, it is only a matter of time.
Less Road Tax
Business owners looking to switch to electric vehicles can benefit from having to pay zero road tax. Why? Because road tax is calculated based on CO2 emissions.
Government Grants
There are currently Government grants available to help reduce the cost of the purchase of an electric vehicle. Click here to find out more.
EV Charging Points
There is a growing wave of support for electric vehicles in both the commercial and consumer sectors that is currently exceeding the electric vehicle charging network. There is a great demand for charging stations across the country that needs to be met.
At HF Group, we are a group of world-class companies leading the way in next-generation technologies; and all with a family continuity at management level which is rarely seen. We can provide a complete electric vehicle charging service. From advising on the best charging station units for your installation to providing year round maintenance contracts to ensure your system is always running at full power.
