Building Controls Industry Association launched

The Building Controls Group (BCG) and Control System Specialists Group (CSSG) have merged to create the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA).

The move follows development of closer working relations between the two organisations which recently culminated in the launch of the Building Controls Industry Training Scheme.

Doug Robins, previously chairman of the CSSG has been elected president of the new association, with Terry Sharp appointed vice president.

The BCIA will represent around 40 manufacturers and installers and has been split into four working groups that will tackle the major aspects of the building controls industry. These are: contracting, marketing, skills development and technology.

Speaking at the launch, Sharp said: "The purpose of the these working groups is to address real issues that we feel are important to our members, as well as consultants, contractors and end-users."

Key aims of the association include establishing closer links to the major design and construction companies as well as promoting the early involvement of controls specialists in projects.

In addition to continuing with its work on the CEN standards committees, its contracts working group has produced a Model terms and conditions of offer document that gives guidance and provides useful standard contract phrasing.

In another change, the new association has aligned itself with the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA). Previously both the BCG and CSSG formed part of the Energy Systems Trade Association (ESTA).

The total value of building control products, installed systems, and service and maintenance supplied in the UK fell £20 million in 2003 to £442.8 million.

Service and maintenance revenues dropped the most with a decline of 7%, the third consecutive year where figures fell.