National recognition for insulation excellence

Companies providing the benchmark for excellence in the insulation industry were given national recognition at a prestigious gala awards event hosted by the National Insulation Association (NIA) in December.

With the Government's ever increasing commitment to green issues, the insulation industry is one of the UK's fastest growing sectors and the high standard of entries to the NIA Industry Best Practice Awards this year highlight the professionalism of NIA member companies and their commitment to delivering quality and standards in workmanship and customer service.

Neil Marshall, NIA Chief Executive, commented: "This is the second year that the NIA has staged industry awards and the quantity and quality of entries received has been unprecedented.

"At a time when the Government is calling on the insulation industry for support in tackling climate change and encouraging householders to address energy efficiency, NIA members continue to rise to the challenge demonstrating the highest level of service and commitment in areas ranging from Employer and Public Relations through to Customer Service and Health & Safety."

One company, which enjoyed double celebrations, was Westville Ltd of Shirebrook which scooped two NIA Awards for Best Customer Service and the Best Hard to Treat Project (Installer). In this category, judges were impressed with the project which focused on a rundown area plagued by fuel poverty and in particular the case of 80 year old Mr Potts, saying: "This story is heart rending. Westville obtained Mr Potts the benefits he needed to install external solid wall insulation and loft insulation which will dramatically improve his quality of life. This is an excellent example of client liaison."

Other companies to receive prestigious awards included:

Baring Insulation Ltd of St Albans - Most Supportive Member

AE Insulation Ltd of Cardiff - Best Employer

A & M Insulations of Rainford, St Helens - Health & Safety Awareness

Saint Gobain Weber Ltd of Bedfordshire - Best Hard to Treat Project (system designer/manufacturer)

Solarwall Ltd of York - Best PR Campaign

An Award for Services to the Insulation Industry was also presented to Tony Hardiman, MD of Dyson Insulations and the NIA Chairman, who has made a huge contribution to the insulation industry for over 30 years. The NIA was also delighted to learn that as Chairman of the NIA, Tony was also recognised in the 2011 New Year's Honours List, receiving an MBE for Services to the Energy Industry.

The National Insulation Association represents over 90% of the UK's home insulation industry, including installers and manufacturers. The NIA is the voice of the insulation industry and its members are committed to providing a high quality, value for money service to householders, housing managers and developers. For more information about how to join the NIA, visit the website at www.nationalinsulationassociation.org.uk or call 08451 636363