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Category: Blog

BLOG | The Importance of Sustainability in Masonry Support Manufacturing

Posted on by Claire McCammon

 

On our journey to a more sustainable built environment, building product manufacturers must look at both the now and the future role they play. Specifiers need to think about the materials used in buildings and their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. From manufacturing processes to material specification, these choices matter. At IG Masonry Support, this challenge has become a driving force in how our company operates and why it is committed to improving efficiencies and driving product innovation which will enable the design and construction of more sustainable buildings.

Our sustainability journey began in 2020 with the goal of delivering our B.O.S.S A1 (Brick on Soffit System) as a Carbon Natural solution. Soon after, we assessed our entire company footprint. Today, it’s not just expected but it’s more important than ever to measure the environmental impact of our manufacturing processes, materials, and supply chain. What started as a series of small operational improvements quickly evolved into a long-term strategy that has reshaped our thinking across all departments.

Our leadership team and employees are fully aware of the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. That’s why we made a collective decision to commit to annual Carbon Footprint reporting and to respond proactively to our findings. In 2021, IG Masonry Support became the first masonry support manufacturer in the UK to achieve Carbon Neutral status. While we recognise that credible carbon credit schemes are not a long-term solution for achieving Net Zero, we are seeing a year-on-year reduction in the emissions we need to offset. For us, this marks significant progress. We’re proud to continue investing in responsible initiatives, including renewable energy technologies, while working to reduce our operational impact.

Reducing our carbon footprint doesn’t happen overnight. It requires sustained commitment, targeted investment, and strategic upgrades, all intentionally aimed at lowering emissions. This has included significant improvements at our manufacturing sites in Swadlincote and Cookstown, such as transitioning to 100% renewable energy tariffs, adopting electric-powered equipment, and enhancing our manufacturing technologies. We’ve replaced diesel forklifts with electric alternatives, expanded our recycling facilities, and ensured that zero waste is sent to landfill, a critical benchmark in sustainable manufacturing.

B.O.S.S A1

One of the defining moments in our sustainability journey was the development of B.O.S.S. A1. Our Brick on Soffit System not only meets but exceeds the latest A1 fire regulations. Designed to deliver superior aesthetics and structural integrity, B.O.S.S. A1 gives the appearance of unsupported brickwork while significantly simplifying installation.

What makes this product truly stand out is its environmental profile. It became the first carbon neutral product of its kind on the market, combining functionality, compliance, and sustainability. Achieving this milestone gave us the confidence and motivation to take our ambitions even further.

The certification of B.O.S.S. A1 was just the beginning. It demonstrated that sustainability can be designed into a product from the outset and that environmental performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of structural or aesthetic quality.

Science Based Targets

To ensure that our sustainability strategy was both robust and achievable, we engaged with Carbon Footprint Ltd. With their guidance we have developed measurable targets to align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) methodology, a globally recognised framework that helps companies set and achieve ambitious emissions reduction targets.

Through this framework, we identified and analysed our Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, giving us a comprehensive understanding of our carbon footprint. This transparency allowed us to identify immediate actions in areas like energy use and transport, while also highlighting the importance of collaboration with suppliers and partners to drive reductions across the supply chain. We are now on track to meet the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target, joining thousands of companies worldwide in tackling climate change.

None of what we have achieved would be possible without the dedication of our entire team. Sustainability is embedded within the culture at IG Masonry Support. From design to production, every individual plays a role in driving our environmental progress. Backed by ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and BBA certifications, our commitment to excellence is clear.

Looking ahead, our goal is to continue leading the way in sustainable product manufacturing and bringing innovative, responsible solutions to market.

BLOG | In-house Manufacturing Drives Quality and Efficiency

Posted on by Claire McCammon

 

With brick facades as popular today as they have ever been, building designers and specifiers need to be confident the products they specify will achieve the same exceptional finish each and every time. Taking the construction of complex brick features offsite into factory-controlled conditions, how do offsite manufactured solutions fulfil complex and creative requirements in buildings whilst hitting the mark on quality and meeting regulatory compliance?

 At IG Masonry Support, we are committed to delivering the highest quality brick slip and masonry support solutions for our customers. Quality is at the heart of everything we do, from our innovative product design to our rigorous manufacturing processes.  This commitment is backed by internationally recognised certifications for our facilities including ISO 9001, along with BBA product approval, reinforcing our focus on robust quality management and environmental responsibility.

The company goes further by using UKAS-accredited equipment from Queen’s University Belfast and partnering with respected independent testing facilities such as Warrington fire, Lucideon, Efectis, and SGS, rigorously verifying hygrothermal performance, fire resistance, deflection, and adhesion. This comprehensive approach to product validation underpins the confidence that designers, contractors, and regulators place in our solutions.

 At the heart of this is IG’s B.O.S.S. A1 (Brick on Soffit System), the first brick soffit system on the market to comply with and exceed the new A1 fire regulations. By combining adhesives with mechanical fixing, B.O.S.S. A1 delivers the exacting performance and safety standards demanded, while being the first product of its kind to be carbon neutral. Its impressive credentials, all of which are BBA certified, offer a technically advanced solution that meets the required aesthetics by hiding structural steelwork to give the illusion of unsupported brickwork.

 

Precision brick matching

Ensuring a seamless, authentic look is crucial for our brick slip solutions. That’s why we manufacture all our products, including B.O.S.S. systems, in our in-house Brick Fabrication Facility in Overseal, Derbyshire. Our design engineers work closely with customers to identify the exact brick type, shape, and bond pattern required, using free-issue bricks from the live site. This meticulous process allows us to achieve a perfect match and integration with the surrounding brickwork.

To support our dedication to quality, we have invested heavily in our Swadlincote and Overseal production facilities. These state-of-the-art factories utilise the global 5S system to optimise productivity and reduce waste, while being home to cutting-edge machinery, including robotic lasers, press brakes, and stacking machines.

Brick remains a timeless material that future generations will continue to rediscover, ensuring its enduring place across our built environment. Moving the construction of complex brick features offsite into factory-controlled settings means, we can achieve the level of quality and consistency that excellence demands. This is due in part to companies such as ours and a commitment to developing solutions that enable brick, a cornerstone of construction, to be used in ways that inspire the imagination of architects and builders alike.

 

GUEST BLOG | Building Safety Act: Why Competence, Testing and Trust Are Non-Negotiable

Posted on by Claire McCammon

An interview with Richard Harral, Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE)

As the construction industry continues its journey towards safer, more accountable practices, the message from regulatory bodies and professional institutes is increasingly clear: compliance alone is no longer enough.

In a recent conversation with IG Masonry Support, Richard Harral, Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), shared his perspective on how the industry must evolve to meet the expectations of the Building Safety Act — and why this shift demands a fundamental rethinking of how we define and demonstrate competence.

CABE, a global professional engineering body, is championing a culture of lifelong learning and accountability. With the introduction of frameworks like BS 8670-1 and 8670-2, there’s now a sharper focus on the specific skills and understanding required to correctly specify, install, and manage construction products — from brick support systems to full envelope solutions.

Richard also highlights the critical importance of manufacturers in this process. By providing independently tested and clearly documented solutions, manufacturers help close the trust gap and enable designers, specifiers, and contractors to make confident, compliant decisions.

At IG Masonry Support, we’re proud to play our part. From our TITAN and B.O.S.S. products to our technical support and CPD offerings, we help ensure that performance, testing, and compliance are not afterthoughts — but core to specification decisions from the outset. We’re proud to be part of a safer, more competent built environment.

Watch the full interview with Richard Harral to explore how safety, trust, and responsibility are reshaping the future of construction.

NEWS | CCPI Assessed Mark Achieved for Folded Angle

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support has earned the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) mark for our Folded Angle product.

The CCPI, developed by the Construction Product Association (CPA) following Dame Judith Hackitt’s review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, establishes an 11-clause set of requirements designed to raise standards in product information management and marketing within the construction manufacturing sector.

Achieving CCPI conformance enhances customer trust and helps to give greater confidence that product information is conforming with the CCPI. This is increasingly vital for specifiers and buyers seeking reliable product performance information and supporting some of their needs in relation to compliance with the Building Safety Act.

The CCPI Assessed Status for Folded Angle product information is valid for two years, demonstrating our commitment to ongoing improvement and proactive advancement of production information and marketing standards.

Securing the CCPI Assessed Mark for all of our masonry support solutions reaffirms our commitment to providing reliable, transparent, and assessed product information to the industry, said Kyle Alexander, General Manager of IG Masonry Support. “This recognition reflects our ongoing drive to empower specifiers with trusted data and reinforces our role in pushing the boundaries of best practice across construction. It’s more than an achievement—it’s a long-term pledge to integrity and innovation. We are continuing to work on achieving the CCPI Assessed Mark for the product information for the remainder of our product ranges, using the latest assessment process.”

The CCPI mark for Folded Angle adds to our extensive portfolio of manufacturing and product certifications, further solidifying our company’s compliance and reputation as a trusted partner in the construction industry.

BLOG | International Women In Engineering Day 2024 – Anisa Alla Interview

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) celebrates its 11th year on 23 June 2024. The theme for this year is Enhanced by Engineering and celebrates the amazing work that women engineers worldwide are doing to support lives and livelihoods every day.

IG Masonry Support is proud to employ several female engineers. We caught up with our newest Structural Engineer, Anisa Alla, on what International Women in Engineering Day means to her.

What made you want to get into engineering?
My passion for engineering started in secondary school, where I enjoyed maths and loved drawing 3D objects. Later, my passion for physics and chemistry grew alongside maths and 3D design.

I enjoy using all the knowledge that maths, physics, chemistry and design has to offer as it allows me to question, explore, invent, discover, and create work that makes a genuine and lasting impact.

What does your role entail within IG Masonry Support?
I find my role as a Structural Engineer within the company rewarding and challenging. IG Masonry Support offers me great progression and a very supportive work environment. I have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, conduct advanced structural calculations, and collaborate with a team of skilled engineers. I can also apply my knowledge and passion for structural engineering and share this passion with other colleagues.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is that I am fortunate enough to design projects that will be around for generations to come. I get a real sense of achievement when a project is finished.

What makes it more enjoyable is the support I get from my team. Our dedicated manager is always there to help us and create all the conditions needed to develop our knowledge and skills in a positive environment. The opportunities for career growth and development within the company are endless.

How do you think we can encourage more young women to pursue careers in engineering?
It’s not just about encouraging young woman to pursue a career in engineering. It’s about creating the environment and conditions at the early stages of education so they can succeed in their engineering careers. A career in structural engineering is a smart choice for anyone looking for a challenging, impactful, and well-compensated career. With diverse career paths, engaging work, good earning potential and opportunities for professional growth, structural engineering is a field that offers something for everyone.

For more information on our career opportunities, visit our careers page.

BLOG | International Women’s Day 2024 – Interviews

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

It’s International Women’s Day 2024 and to celebrate we are pleased to present a series of interviews featuring the incredible voices of our female employees. From sharing their experiences, motivations, and perspectives, these interviews shed light on the diverse talents and strengths of the women who drive innovation and success within our company.

 

Interview – Siobhan Martin, Senior Brand Executive

 

 

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

As a woman in a male-dominated industry and also competing in a male-dominated sport, I think it’s truly important to highlight and encourage the limitless possibilities we have as females. Equality and empowerment are vital.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

After spending the first half of my career in Local Government, I moved location and fancied a challenge in a brand-new industry. Keystone Group stood out for me as a leading construction product manufacturer and I was keen to become part of something big and make an impact on the future of construction.

How do you think the construction industry can become more inclusive and diverse?

I think we are slowly but surely moving in the right direction however as an industry, we need to do more by targeting and advising young females from school age to highlight the career possibilities. This will also allow construction companies to access a broader range of skills and experience.

What’s your personal International Women’s Day message?

Go for it and don’t be worried! No matter which job you are interested in, your gender plays no role. We are all capable. We, as women, can accomplish anything. We just need to be brave enough to stand up and do so!

 

Interview – Judith Mitchell, Health & Safety Coordinator 

 

 

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

To me IWD is a day to acknowledge and celebrate the progress that has been made in empowering women in the workplace and to recognise some of the amazing talented female colleagues I work with.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

Choosing a Health and Safety role  in the construction industry offers a chance to make a significant difference to employee safety and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from safe working practices being implemented across sites.

How do you think the construction industry can become more inclusive and diverse?

To be more inclusive the construction industry needs to ensure the same opportunities, recognition and rewards are given to women in the workplace as are given to men.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

Never doubt your knowledge, don’t be afraid to speak up and express your concerns. It can be quite intimidating being a young women in what’s has always been considered a male environment but your  input is just as important and valuable as anyone else on the team.

What’s your personal International Women’s Day message?

“It took me a long time to find my voice and know my own strength but now I have it, I’m never going to be quiet or rely on anyone but myself, if I make mistakes along the way at least I’ll know they were mine to make”

 

Interview – Beverly Whiting, Area Sales Manager

 

 

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s the chance to celebrate and recognise the achievements of all women. For me personally to reflect on inspirational women in my life. Along side celebrating achievements it important to recognise the gender inequality that still exists and look at opportunities to overcome these.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

I fell into the construction industry after working in finance and found that I absolutely loved the industry so continued to pursue a career in it.

How do you think the construction industry can become more inclusive and diverse?

It has been great to see the rise in numbers of women in the construction industry workforce, however the percentage is still very low at around 16%. The diverse range of jobs need to be promoted through college’s, universities and apprenticeships to women.

Companies breaking down gender stereotypical roles by hiring women for positions previously perceived and a male role and supporting diversity.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

Absolutely go for it. It’s an amazing industry to be part of. It’s incredibly interesting, challenging and there’s so much scope for career development.

What’s your personal International Women’s Day message?

Pursue your ambitions, be the author of your own destiny, smash through the barriers and be the most successful and happiest version of yourself.

BLOG | National Engineers Week 2024 – Maruf Khan Interview

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

National Engineers Week 2024 is drawing to a close so we’ve caught up with our final interviewee Maruf Khan to share his thoughts and experiences working in the industry as a Structural Engineer:

 

What made you want to get into engineering?

I was always fascinated by how things work and enjoyed solving mathematical physics problems in school / college. This curiosity naturally led me towards engineering. The idea of creating innovative solutions and contributing to the advancement of society appealed to me. I wanted a career that allowed me to apply mathematical and scientific principles to real-world challenges, and engineering offered the perfect blend of creativity and analytical thinking.

 

What does a typical working day look like for you?

A typical day in my role involves a mix of collaborative teamwork and individual tasks. I spend time analysing project requirements, designing solutions, and often working closely with cross-functional teams. Meetings, whether with colleagues or clients, are a crucial part of ensuring everyone is aligned. Additionally, problem-solving is a daily occurrence, and adaptability is key as priorities may shift.

 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The most enjoyable aspect of my job is the opportunity to bring ideas to life and witness the tangible impact of our work. I find satisfaction in overcoming challenges and seeing projects evolve from concept to reality. Collaborating with diverse teams and learning from each other’s expertise is also rewarding. Moreover, the continuous learning environment in engineering keeps me engaged and excited about the ever-evolving technologies and methodologies.

 

Any advice for aspiring engineers?

My advice to aspiring engineers is to foster a strong foundation in mathematics and science. Cultivate a passion for problem-solving and embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Seek internships or projects that provide hands-on experience, as practical knowledge is invaluable. Communication skills are equally important, so practice expressing complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. Stay curious, be adaptable, and don’t be afraid to take on challenges – they often lead to the most significant growth in your career. Finally, build a professional network and learn from mentors who can guide you on your journey.

For more information on our career opportunities, visit our careers page.

BLOG | National Engineers Week 2024 – Mathew Cooper Interview

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

National Engineers Week 2024 (18 – 24) rolls on so we caught up with our Graduate Design Engineer Mathew Cooper to get the perspective of graduates who are getting started in the industry:

 

What made you want to get into engineering?

My interest in Mathematics combined with my love for Architecture is what propelled me to pursue a career in the engineering industry. The fact that Engineering is considered one of the most valuable degrees currently played a big role in my decision-making.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

A typical working day for me usually consists of looking over architectural and structural drawings and dealing with customer emails and calls regarding information or queries addressing our products.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The most enjoyable aspect of my job would be the team I work with, there’s always a great atmosphere in the office. Also having the ability to create a bespoke design and having to back it up with structural understanding is always a rewarding challenge.

Any advice for aspiring engineers?

My advice to any aspiring engineers would be to take each and every opportunity that comes your way as you might find it of interest for a future career!

For more information on our career opportunities, visit our careers page.

BLOG | National Engineers Week 2024 – Fausto Braccio Interview

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

National Engineers Week 2024 continues and up next we have our Senior Project Engineer Fausto Braccio who believes aspiring engineers should continuously seek opportunities to learn and expand their skill set:

 

What made you want to get into engineering?

I was drawn to civil engineering because I have always been fascinated by the idea of being part of the process of designing and building structures that benefit society and improve people’s lives.

 What does a typical working day look like for you?

A typical day for me starts with planning the day and organising tasks based on priority. It also involves coordinating and attending internal and external meetings, answering to customer’s queries, helping them with their request for additional products, checking and processing product packs before they go into manufacture, among others. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

What I enjoy the most of my job is the possibility of working in diverse projects from small residential houses to large building complexes, resulting in learning something new every day and having the chance to work with many professionals along the way. I also find satisfaction in witnessing the tangible results of our efforts when doing site visits or looking at our customer’s site photos, which is particularly rewarding.

Any advice for aspiring engineers?

For aspiring engineers I recommend a strong foundation in project management and continuously seek opportunities to learn and expand their skill set.

For more information on our career opportunities, visit our careers page

BLOG | National Engineers Week 2024 – Grace Miller Interview

Posted on by Siobhan Martin

It’s National Engineers Week (18 – 24) and we’re celebrating. To mark the occasion, we asked our Engineers to share what they’ve learned about their careers in the construction industry, as well as some tips for aspiring engineers looking to enter the field. Check out what our Technical Engineer Grace Miller had to say:

 

What made you want to get into engineering?

Growing up on a farm, I saw first-hand how buildings were constructed and this ignited my passion to understand how they were designed. At secondary school, my aptitude for STEM subjects, especially Mathematics and Physics, taught me to structure my approach to practical problem solving – an important skill for a Structural Engineer.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

As a Technical Engineer, I’m involved in estimating, structural engineering, and project engineering, working on both English and Irish projects. I thrive on the challenges of preparing accurate and competitive quotations, checking the structural integrity of my solutions, and managing my live projects. Being able to turn to an experienced and approachable team makes my job more pleasurable!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy liaising with customers and industry professionals during design team meetings and on the telephone, as well as collaborating with the IG team, designing and delivering practical solutions. I particularly enjoy the journey of working on a project from the initial enquiry stage right through to the manufacture and delivery of product.

 Any advice for aspiring engineers?

My advice would be to relish every project, design team meeting, site visit, and conversation in the workplace – there is something new to learn every single day!

For more information on our career opportunities, visit our careers page.