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BLOG | The Building Safety Act: Why the Accuracy and Quality of Product Information is Key

Posted on by Claire McCammon

The Building Safety Act (BSA) includes a number of groundbreaking reforms and places a significant emphasis on the management and transfer of safety-critical information throughout a building’s lifecycle. With product information and legislation so critical when specification decisions are made, how can we as a construction product manufacturer support specifiers, architects and contractors to make informed safe decisions?

The impact of the BSA

For the masonry sector, the Act has raised the bar on product conformity, traceability and documentation.  It’s no longer simply a case of supplying a ‘compliant’ product. Product suppliers need to provide clear evidence of conformity to the relevant standards whether that’s BS EN 845-1/2 for masonry components or BS EN 1090 where steel execution applies. Declaration of Performance and CE or UKCA marking where applicable, test reports, and batch/serial traceability are essential to feed the golden thread of information.

With duty holders required to identify who is accountable, suppliers can expect more detailed contract clauses, warranties and requests for indemnities. Failure to provide full evidence may delay approvals or expose suppliers to claims if a product is later implicated in a safety issue. On top of that, installers’ competence and proof of correct installation (photos, sign-offs, inspection records) are required for the golden thread and to satisfy gateway and the statutory change-control process. Manufacturers must provide clear installation instructions, training and certification routes.

 

Implications for specifiers

For architect and contractors, the BSA means stricter specification and design evidence is required. Architects must specify proven systems (to the right standards, testing etc), document design decisions to feed the golden thread of information and must justify bespoke specification with risk assessments and testing evidence.

Duty holders, including principal designers and contractors, must meet competency expectations. Work on high-risk buildings (HRBs) is subject to Gateway 1–3 checks which means that documentation gaps such as missing product test certificates or lack of installation records can delay or stop work. Contractors must build the evidence trail into their programme and commercial risk management, ensuring that product IDs, certificates, test results, inspection photos, commissioning records and O&M information are captured and handed over as part of the permanent safety record for the building.

 

How IG Masonry Support has adapted to the BSA

All product information has or is in the process of being verified by the CCPI (Code for Construction Product Information). This is critical for duty holders as it clearly identifies that the product information is accurate and unambiguous. Technical Data Sheets and Installation Guides have also been updated to fully align with the Building Safety Act requirements.

We have also been awarded certification to BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018, the globally recognised standard for building information management (BIM) over the life-cycle of built assets. This supports a robust information management framework for traceability, digital record-keeping and structured workflows all of which are critical for the golden thread requirements.

We continue to lead the way with new product certification for our products including recently becoming the first masonry support manufacturer to achieve BBA for a masonry support system (Welded Masonry Support). This is key for IG as we pride ourselves in going above and beyond minimum standards and ensure our products meet the highest standards for safety and quality.

 

Supporting specifiers every step of the way 

Specifiers face a challenging environment under the BSA and our role is to make it easier for them to make informed decisions.  We provide:

  • Detailed CCPI-verified technical data sheets, installation instructions and testing data for all of our products
  • Third-party certified products to give specifiers confidence that a system has been independently assessed for intended use.
  • A Building Information Modelling (BIM) and information management infrastructure aligned to BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018.
  • A free scheduling and specification service from our in-house engineers
  • Transparency around sustainability including EPDs for all our products, support responsible specification and environmental compliance.
  • A CPD programme targeting architects, engineers and specifiers to provide deeper insight into our products.
  • Full in-house manufacturing at our factory in South Derbyshire, certified to BS EN ISO 9001:2015, BS EN ISO 14001:2015, EN 1090-1:2009, guaranteeing consistent highest quality products.

 

A new era of transparency

Every project we have tackled to date under the BSA has had different requirements. By sharing learnings from previous successful submissions, we are able to support duty holders through the gateway process, helping them understand what information is required and how to structure it.

The Building Safety Act has dramatically changed the construction landscape  but by ensuring the accuracy and quality of our product information, and supporting specifiers and contractors throughout the entire project lifecycle, we are committed to playing our part in delivering a safer built environment.

 

EVENT | Proud Sponsor of Super Trowel Irish Regional Event 2026

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support, together with our sister brands Keyfix and Keystone Lintels, all part of the Keystone Group, are proud to jointly sponsor the Super Trowel 2026 Regional Event, taking place on Friday 27th February at Southern Regional College, Newry.

Super Trowel is the UK’s most exciting bricklaying competition, celebrating the very best in the trade. The regional events play a vital role in showcasing emerging talent and supporting the next generation of bricklayers, offering competitors the chance to demonstrate their technical skill, speed, and precision in a highly competitive environment.

The Northern Ireland and Ireland regional event in Newry will bring together apprentices, trainees, and experienced bricklayers from across the region, all competing for recognition and the opportunity to progress to the Super Trowel final in July. It’s an unmissable date for anyone passionate about craftsmanship and the future of masonry.

As a leader in construction products, the Keystone Group is committed to championing quality workmanship, innovation, and skills development within the industry. Through the joint sponsorship of this regional event, IG Masonry Support, Keyfix, and Keystone Lintels are proud to support both established professionals and those at the very start of their careers.

We look forward to supporting competitors and being part of an inspiring day at Southern Regional College, Newry.

Tickets for the main competition in July are available on the Super Trowel website.

EVENT | Brick Works Glasgow with IG Masonry Support

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support is proud to present the next stop in the 2025 Brick Works Series, a national programme of inspiring evening events focused on modern brick architecture and the future of masonry support systems.

Hosted exclusively by IG Masonry Support in partnership with the Brick Development Association (BDA), the Brick Works Series celebrates the design flexibility, performance, and enduring appeal of clay brick in today’s built environment. Each event offers a platform for architects, contractors, and construction professionals to connect, share insights, and earn continuing professional development (CPD) credits.

Attendees can look forward to engaging presentations from leading architectural voices, exploring how innovative brickwork is shaping cities across the UK. The series places a spotlight on real-world projects, technical excellence, and the craftsmanship that drives creative brick solutions.

Brick Works Glasgow will take place on 16th October 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, at Boxhub Bridge Gardens. This event will bring together professionals from across the design and construction industries to explore current trends in brick architecture and discuss sustainable approaches using clay brick.

As a proud champion of masonry innovation, IG Masonry Support is excited to host an evening of learning, collaboration, and conversation – all set within the dynamic architectural landscape of Glasgow.

Places are limited. For further details and to reserve your spot, please visit the BDA Brick Works Series website.

NEWS | Marcus Emmerson returns as National Specification Manager

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support and Keyfix are delighted to announce the return of Marcus Emmerson, who rejoins the business as National Specification Manager.

Marcus has a long-standing history with IG Masonry Support, having first joined the company in 2014 as a Technical Engineer. Over the next nine years, he progressed through roles as Technical Sales Manager and Estimating Manager, before broadening his career with leadership and specification positions elsewhere in the construction industry.

Most recently, Marcus worked as a Technical Sales Executive for EH Smith Architectural Solutions, where he applied over a decade of experience to deliver innovative and bespoke façade solutions for a wide range of projects. In that role, he collaborated closely with architects, clients, and contractors to balance design vision, budget, and technical requirements, while ensuring the best possible product and service solutions.

His return to IG Masonry Support and Keyfix marks an exciting step as he takes on responsibility for national specification development and support, working with architects and specifiers to ensure the right masonry support solutions are integrated at the earliest design stages.

Marcus commented: “It’s great to be back and see so many familiar faces as well as plenty of new ones! I’m excited to get started and drive the specification team forward.”

With a proven track record in technical sales, estimating, and specification, combined with his passion for enhancing both the aesthetics and performance of buildings, Marcus brings valuable expertise and industry insight back to IG Masonry Support and Keyfix.

NEWS | IG Masonry Support Sponsors Craftsmanship Category at Brick Awards 2025

Posted on by Claire McCammon

The annual Brick Development Association Brick Awards shortlist has been announced, and IG Masonry Support is proud to once again be part of this prestigious celebration of brick architecture in the UK.

This year, we’re delighted to sponsor the Craftsmanship category, which recognises exceptional examples of skilled brickwork that demonstrate attention to detail, quality, and artistry on site. This aligns closely with our values as a business focused on delivering precision-engineered solutions that support the highest standards of construction.

As one of the most respected accolades in the built environment, the Brick Awards highlight the creative and technical possibilities of clay brick across 17 categories. These span sectors such as housing, education, innovation, and specialist brickwork – showcasing standout contributions from architects, contractors, developers, and housebuilders.

IG Masonry Support is also proud to have supplied products and support services to two of this year’s shortlisted projects:

Worldwide

Public

 

This project exemplifies the design excellence and skilled brickwork celebrated by the Brick Awards, and we are pleased to have contributed to its success through our bespoke masonry support solutions.

Scott Denham, Sales Director at IG Masonry Support, said:

“The Craftsmanship category holds particular significance for us this year. As a company built on precision, innovation, and offsite expertise, we’re proud to sponsor an award that champions the hands-on skill and dedication of brickwork specialists across the UK.

We’re equally pleased to see IG Masonry Support products featured in several shortlisted projects once again. We wish all the finalists the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating with them later this year.”

The Brick Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday 5th November 2025 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London. To view the full shortlist and find out more, visit www.brick.org.uk/brick-awards.

EVENT | Proud Sponsor of Super Trowel 2025

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support, together with our sister brands Keyfix, Keystone Lintels, all a part of the Keystone Group, is proud to sponsor Super Trowel 2025, the UK’s largest and most exciting bricklaying competition. This event brings together the very best in the trade, with the Pro, Master, and Junior Series, plus the fast-paced Hoodie Race, offering cash prizes, national recognition, and valuable career opportunities.

Taking place on Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th August 2025 at Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Super Trowel attracts over 100 trade stands and top suppliers, making it an unmissable event for anyone in the masonry industry. Competitors face intense challenges that test their technical skill, speed, and accuracy, all vying for prestigious titles and industry acclaim.

As a leader in advanced construction products, Keystone Group is committed to celebrating craftsmanship, innovation, and the future of the trade. At Stand 77, IG Masonry Support, Keyfix, and Keystone Lintels will exhibit together, showcasing the latest advancements in masonry support, cavity tray solutions, and lintel technology. Visitors can engage directly with our expert teams and enjoy a mini golf competition at the stand – a fun way to test your skills and win prizes while connecting with industry leaders.

Super Trowel is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of the dedication and innovation that drive the UK bricklaying industry forward. Whether you’re competing, spectating, or exploring the exhibitor stands, the event promises two days full of inspiration, learning, and camaraderie.

Tickets for the competition are available on the Super Trowel website.

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.

NEWS | IG Masonry Support shapes landmark Lambeth Mission with Brick Slip Arches

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support played a key role in the successful delivery of Lambeth Mission, a striking mixed-use development in the heart of London, featuring a complex arrangement of bespoke Brick Slip Arches that were designed and manufactured to achieve a seamless hand-laid appearance.

Located opposite the Grade II-listed Imperial War Museum, this high-profile scheme includes a 12-storey, 137-bedroom hotel, modern community facilities, and two residential apartments for the Methodist Church. Working in close collaboration with Aros Architects, HG Construction, and brickwork specialists Bishop Ltd, IG Masonry Support designed and manufactured 105 bespoke Brick Slip Arches and more than 120 metres of Welded Masonry Support to meet the project’s structural and aesthetic demands.

One of the most technically challenging aspects of the build was achieving perfect alignment between multiple intersecting arches, especially around the terrace area, which featured 10 interconnected arches, including five internal and one external corner. Each element had to connect precisely while accommodating structural movement joints. IG’s design team developed custom templates and a series of test arches to ensure brick placement remained accurate and visually seamless across every elevation.

 

The handmade bricks chosen for the project presented another hurdle. With their natural bowing, irregular sizes and rough edges, they were difficult to cut and align but were essential to achieving the architect’s vision of a traditional hand-laid finish. Using bricks sourced directly from site, IG’s team embraced these imperfections, crafting units in a factory-controlled setting that replicated the authenticity of onsite masonry while saving time and labour.

The Brick Slip Arches and Welded Masonry Support were engineered to bolt directly to the steel structure, accommodating varying cavity widths and complex junctions. Deep soffit units were fabricated in two parts to work around the steel perimeter, with joints carefully pointed onsite to create an uninterrupted appearance.

“We approached IG in the first instance because of their known expertise in delivering high-quality masonry support solutions, said Natasha Coutts, Associate at Aros Architects. “They were the first people that we approached, and the only people that we approached. From the very first meeting, it was clear they would be the right fit.”

Antony Dixon, Site Manager at Bishop Ltd, added:
“Their engineers were onsite for the installation of the first arch. Whenever I needed support, a quick phone call was all it took. They helped us keep the project moving forward.”

By combining design expertise with off-site precision, IG Masonry Support helped bring Lambeth Mission’s bold architectural vision to life, successfully delivering complex masonry solutions that look as if they were crafted entirely by hand. The result is a standout project that blends modern construction with traditional detailing, and once again highlights IG’s commitment to quality, collaboration, and innovation.

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.

 

NEWS | Prestigious BIM ISO 19650 Certification Achieved

Posted on by Claire McCammon

IG Masonry Support has officially been awarded a Certificate of Conformity to BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018, recognising our company’s excellence in Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes and information management.

The internationally recognised certification, awarded by the British Standards Institution (BSI), confirms that we meet the highest standards for managing information over the lifecycle of a built asset using BIM – from project inception through to completion.

This achievement reflects our long-standing commitment to digital transformation, precision design, and collaborative construction. By adopting and integrating structured BIM methodologies into our operations, we continue to drive innovation and deliver enhanced value to clients across the construction industry.

Andy Neal, Managing Director of IG Masonry Support, commented:

“We’re extremely proud to have our BIM processes officially recognised by BSI. Having delivered digitally enabled construction solutions for several years, this certification reinforces our commitment to managing project information with precision and integrity from concept through to completion. It demonstrates our continued focus on adding tangible value to design, quality, and efficiency across every project as part of our standard approach.

“BIM represents a significant opportunity for the construction sector to evolve and innovate. At IG Masonry Support, we believe collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of digital construction and driving positive change across the industry.”

The BS EN ISO 19650-2:2018 standard is a globally adopted framework that defines best practices for information management using BIM within the context of the built environment. By achieving this certification, we not only enhance our competitive advantage but also support the broader construction industry’s shift towards more collaborative, data-driven delivery models.